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So You Want to be a WriterAuthor: Australian Writers' Centre
Everything you’ve always wanted to know about succeeding in the world of writing and publishing. Learn practical writing techniques, go behind-the-scenes and discover how real-life authors got their big break. Uncover the creative processes of writers who have made it. Your host is Valerie Khoo – author, journalist, creative and CEO of the Australian Writers’ Centre. Language: en-au Genres: Arts, Books, Education, How To Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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Writing Podcast Episode 705: Sam Elliott and his debut crime/thriller novel, 'Haze'
Monday, 23 February, 2026
We often talk about persistence in the journey of an aspiring author, and for podcaster Sam Elliott, his 20 years of working towards publication had many twists and turns. Now finally with his debut crime/thriller novel Haze under his belt, in this episode Sam shares the turning points that got him to this stage – including completing a particular AWC course – and the inspiration for telling this particular story. He also shares advice for other aspiring writers and the importance of a writing community. 00:00 Welcome03:45 Writing tip: Check your Notes app07:41 WIN!: The Violin Maker’s Secret by Evie Woods09:07 Word of the week: ‘Ditheism’10:41 Writer in residence: Sam Elliott11:55 Sam describes his debut crime thriller, Haze14:00 Sam’s history of writing16:45 The inspirations for the bushfire storyline18:03 Creating and developing characters19:02 Writing about cults20:55 The experience of completing the AWC course22:20 Finding a last writing community24:29 Advice for aspiring writers25:54 Making peace with the publishing journey 27:40 Writing the book and securing an agent30:30 Getting the offer and how surreal it was32:53 Research for this book36:44 The best and worst part of writing the book38:10 Being on the other side of interviews39:55 Balancing writing with life41:37 Final thoughts Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
