Conversations on Craft – Détails, épisodes et analyse

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Conversations on Craft

Hayley King

Arts

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Fréquence : 1 épisode/20j. Total Éps: 12

Conversations on Craft is a monthly podcast from Ascent Novel Prize that dives deep into the art, and grit, of writing. Hosted by Hayley King, each episode features conversations with authors and agents who reveal the techniques, habits, and mindset required to become a powerful storyteller. Whether you're beginning a first draft or publishing your tenth novel, you'll find practical advice, inspiration, and honest discussions about what it takes to produce a book that works. If you're serious about the craft or writing, this podcast is for you. Subscribe now and transform your writing, one episode at a time.

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Liens partagés entre épisodes et podcasts

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https://www.ascentnovelprize.com/
7 partages
http://www.ascentnovelprize.com
2 partages
https://www.greenstoneliterary.com/
2 partages

https://www.instagram.com/ascent_novel_prize
8 partages
https://www.instagram.com/lizathelitagent
2 partages

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On Rejection to Book Deal - with Cate Haynes

Saison 1 · Épisode 12

vendredi 10 juillet 2026 • Durée 56:21

From Rejection to Book Deal: The Journey of a Middle Grade Fantasy Author

Join us as Cate Haynes shares her inspiring path to publication, from early rejections to signing with her dream publisher. Discover the creative process behind The Spell Whisperer, tips for overcoming writer's doubts, and insights into balancing craft, resilience, and passion.

In this episode:

Cate's journey from childhood writing to literary success, including her first sci-fi book in 2001 and the long road to her debut novel

The importance of perseverance: submitting to 179 rejections before finding an agent

How her personal experiences with stammering inspired her latest book The Spell Whisperer

Her creative process: nursing ideas, meticulous planning, and the role of notebooks and mind maps

The value of writing groups, competitions, and continuous learning to hone craft

Insights into working with agents and editors, from initial query to publication deadlines

Practical advice for writers: keep learning, build community, and embrace feedback

Resources & Links:

Right Mentor - Supportive writing community and courses

Write Magic - Facebook-based writing sprints and accountability groups

Connect with Cate Haynes:

Instagram

To learn more visit:
Ascent Novel prize

Or follow us at:
Ascent_Novel_Prize

This episode is packed with actionable insights and heartfelt stories—ideal for writers at any stage of their journey.

Music: UJDM0MRSBB0POLNZ

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On finding what feeds your soul - with Adebola Rayo

Saison 1 · Épisode 11

lundi 22 juin 2026 • Durée 48:31

Love writing BUT hate rejection? Then this episode is for you.

Most writers face relentless rejection and self-doubt—Rayo’s journey proves resilience can turn passion into impactful change. In this inspiring episode, she shares how she took her storytelling dreams into her own hands, publishing her debut children's book after years of industry setbacks, and turning her personal passion into social impact through innovative initiatives like Karanta Kids and the Tani Series.You'll discover how Rayo navigated her evolution from law student to published author, and the unshakeable confidence that comes from trusting your voice despite industry noise. She reveals the power of storytelling in shaping identity, especially for children of colour, and offers practical advice for writers feeling vulnerable or discouraged by rejection. We break down:

The behind-the-scenes story of how her award-winning children’s book Sleepy Guppy Finds Its Voice was crafted, illustrated, and brought to life through community engagement.
The significance of representation in children’s literature, and how her organizations are closing the access gap with affordable, culturally relevant stories via digital platforms.
The hidden struggles of publishing as a black author and how her own experience with industry prizes like the Faber-Fab Prize fuelled her confidence and persistence.
The role of motherhood in deepening her compassion and shaping her voice—leading to more authentic storytelling.
Practical tips on building a writing routine amid parenthood, including leveraging voice memos and learning to embrace rejection as part of the journey.

Every writer’s path is littered with obstacles, but perseverance and the willingness to craft your own opportunities can make a difference. Whether you’re dreaming of publishing your first book or fighting to see your stories reflected in the world at large, Rayo’s story offers compelling proof that your voice can inspire change, no matter the setbacks. Perfect for aspiring children’s authors or anyone committed to using storytelling as a tool for empowerment and community-building—this conversation will leave you motivated to keep writing, creating, and impacting lives through your words.

On writing habits that got a netflix deal - with Pim Wangtechawat

Saison 1 · Épisode 1

jeudi 4 décembre 2025 • Durée 45:22

If you've ever dreamt about who you'll cast in an adaptation of your novel, then this podcast is for you!

We dive deep into Pim's writing process, learn about the difficulties of navigating the publishing world and are given some heartfelt advice on the validation every human seeks. Whether you're writing your first draft or publishing your tenth novel, this podcast is for you.

Pre-order Pim's new book, 'I Dreamed of You' here: I Dreamed of You by Pim Wangtechawat | Waterstones

Follow Pim on Instagram: Instagram

For more on Ascent Novel Prize and how to enter visit: www.ascentnovelprize.com

Or follow us at: Instagram

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On how to break into publishing - with Liza DeBlock

Saison 1 · Épisode 2

jeudi 4 décembre 2025 • Durée 36:19

Are you seeking an agent for your novel? Do the rejections seem to be coming thick and fast? Then this episode is for you!

In this episode of Conversations on Craft, literary agent Liza DeBlock shares her insights on the writing and publishing process. From the importance of editing and crafting a compelling synopsis to the realities of breaking into the industry, Liza provides valuable advice for aspiring authors. She discusses common mistakes writers make, the dynamics of the agent-author relationship, and the challenges of building a long-term writing career. Liza also highlights current trends in publishing and what she looks for in submissions, emphasizing the need for diversity and originality in storytelling.

To learn more about the literary agency where Liza works and to see how to submit to her, please visit: https://www.greenstoneliterary.com/

Liza DeBlock can be found online at: https://www.instagram.com/lizathelitagent/ To hear Liza's interview on Page One visit: https://youtu.be/ND4QwL2alfM

Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Liza DeBlock and Her Journey 02:15 Editing Manuscripts: The Process and Importance 05:57 Knowing When a Manuscript is Ready 08:06 Common Mistakes Writers Make 09:15 Crafting a Great Synopsis 13:29 Breaking into the Publishing Industry 17:29 The Reality of the Publishing Process 19:34 The Agent-Author Relationship 21:47 What Happens if a Book Doesn't Sell? 23:44 Long-Term Careers in Writing 26:20 Understanding Lead Titles vs. Mid-List Writers 27:55 Diversity in Representation 29:28 Current Trends in Publishing 32:35 Advice for Struggling Writers 33:39 Liza's Wishlist for New Manuscripts 34:53 The Joy of Being an Agent 36:13 2.mp4

To support the show, subscribe, like and send to writer friends.

On Editing to Agenting - with Hannah Sheppard

Saison 1 · Épisode 10

mardi 2 juin 2026 • Durée 33:51

Hannah Sheppard, literary agent and founder of HS-LA, shares insights into the agenting process and her journey to launching her own agency, HSLA. She discusses changes in publishing, navigating the query process, offering representation, protecting writers, pitching and polishing manuscripts, and the future of publishing. Her commitment to demystifying the publishing process is evident in her approach to accessibility and transparency.

Takeaways

Agenting Insights
Navigating the Publishing Process

Chapters

00:00 Insight into Agenting
07:38 Navigating the Query Process
15:52 Protecting Writers
23:13 Pitching and Polishing Manuscripts
30:04 The Future of Publishing
36:17 Demystifying the Publishing Process

Visit HS-LA's Website

Visit Ascent Novel Prize for writing advice

Follow Ascent Novel Prize on Instagram

Written a book for children? Enter our children's prize here.

Music licensed through Soundstripe.
Code: GCRY1Z5E6NJBQ1BK

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On Crafting the Gothic - with A. A. Sekhon - Bonus Episode

Saison 1 · Épisode 9

mardi 12 mai 2026 • Durée 38:41

Want to hook your reader with an atmospheric opening? Then this episode is for you!

Discover the nuanced process behind writing and publishing a historical gothic novella set in Victorian London with author A.A. Sekhon. From crafting atmospheric openings to navigating the publishing world, Ash shares valuable tips rooted in years of experience.

Resources & Links:

Waterstones - UK Bookstore

Amazon UK

Connect with Ash Sekhon:

Instagram

Main Topics Covered:

Ash's unique writing process: balancing organic development and planning

Creating atmospheric, tension-filled gothic openings

The importance of historical accuracy and detailed research

Overcoming self-doubt and rejection in the publishing journey

The value of community, mentorship, and strategic publishing options

Practical advice for maintaining motivation during writer’s block

How revisions and understanding industry standards improve craft

In this episode:

Ash explains why they prefer starting drafts on paper and type up for editing (0:38)

Discussion on favourite gothic authors, including Poe, Stevenson, and Kafka (0:59)

0n winning Ascent Novel Prize - with Erica Li

Saison 1 · Épisode 8

vendredi 1 mai 2026 • Durée 32:14

Want to know what it takes to win an international writing competition? Then this episode is for you!

Are you an aspiring writer looking for inspiration tips, practical advice on craft, or insight into the publishing world? Erica Li, a celebrated author and winner of the inaugural Ascent Novel Prize, shares her rich writing journey, from researching her family history to completing her debut novel, A Thousand Rivers of Time. Discover her writing routine, how she handles feedback, and her tips for fellow writers striving to refine their craft and navigate the industry.

Main Topics Covered:

Erica’s inspiration and research process for A Thousand Rivers of Time

The role of family history and memory in her storytelling

Challenges and strategies in completing and revising her novel

Her experience with writing courses, workshops, and networking

Practical tips for writers: reading, writing, and seeking feedback

Insights into the publishing industry and considerations for debut authors

Erica’s future plans for her writing and advice for aspiring writers

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to Erica Li and her debut novel

00:38 - Overview of A Thousand Rivers of Time and its themes

01:28 - The research behind Erica’s family history and its influence

02:51 - Themes of loss, memory, and dementia in her story

04:24 - Erica’s previous writing projects and the evolution of her novel

05:44 - The writing timeline and journey of her first draft

08:15 - Changes between her early draft and award-winning manuscript

09:05 - Erica’s daily writing schedule and routines

On Fantasy World Building - with Venetia Constantine

Saison 1 · Épisode 7

vendredi 6 mars 2026 • Durée 42:03

Want to create fantasy worlds that readers will remember? Then this episode is for you!

Venetia Constantine, author of The Last Starborn Seer, joins us to discuss her spic world-building and her exciting journey to publication. We take a deep dive into the joy of commissioning character art and Venetia advises us all to claim our space as writers.

Chapter include:
00:00 Introduction to Venetia Constantine

02:58 The Evolution of The Last Starborn Seer

05:42 Writing Process and Drafting

08:21 World Building in Fantasy

12:50 Character Development and Art

16:20 Crafting Satisfying Endings in a Trilogy

18:20 Journey to Publication and Finding an Agent

21:27 Choosing the Right Literary Agent

25:03 Navigating the Submission Process

28:35 Improving Craft Through Community

30:23 Reflections on Early Writing Journey

31:59 Challenges of Writing Under Contract

35:46 Connecting with Readers

38:01 Advice for Aspiring Writers

39:55 Future Aspirations as a Writer

To find out more about Venetia and to publish her debut novel visit: Home - Venetia Constantine

For information on Ascent Novel Prize, follow here: (1) Instagram

Or visit:

On Writing the Book of your Heart - with Aje Roberts

Saison 1 · Épisode 6

samedi 28 février 2026 • Durée 45:18

In this episode of Conversations on Craft, Hayley King sits down with Aje Roberts, Senior Commissioning Editor at Tor Bramble and judge for the Ascent Novel Prize, for a deep dive into the messy and magical world of publishing. Aje shares what she looks for in submissions, how she builds long‑term author careers, and why intersectional, diverse voices matter more than ever. Learn how to craft a unique hook and discover what happens at an acquisition meeting.

We talk tropes (including the infamous “only one bed”), dream acquisitions, book‑to‑screen adaptations, and the reality of working across authors, agents, and editorial teams. R.J. also lifts the curtain on how she scouts new talent, nurtures relationships, and champions writers beyond the debut.

Whether you’re querying or a published author, this episode is full of insight, encouragement, and industry clarity.

What we cover

• What a Senior Commissioning Editor actually does

• How submissions stand out in a crowded market

• The role of agents and how the author–agent–editor trio works

• Why fantasy has such a long tail in publishing

• How editors support authors beyond the debut

• Practical steps for championing diverse voices

• Tropes we love (and pretend to hate)

00:00 Introduction to R.J. Robert and Her Role

06:36 Building Relationships with Authors and Agents

09:52 Promoting Diverse Voices in Publishing

12:16 The Balance of Acquiring New Authors

On being a Virginia Woolf from the Ends - with Ashleigh Nugent

Saison 1 · Épisode 5

vendredi 30 janvier 2026 • Durée 57:50

From jail to published author with a PhD. Learn how you can take your experience and turn it into something that changes lives.

Ashleigh Nugent, author of Locks, is hailed as a 'Virginia Woolf from the ends'. He joins 'Conversations on Craft' for a discussion on identity, purpose and shares his own personal journey to publication.

Discover how Ashleigh Nugent overcame personal and societal barriers to become a published author, delving into his creative process and the power of purpose in writing. This episode offers insights into Dr Nugent's stream-of-consciousness style and how he captures life as it's experienced. After leaving school believing education wasn't for him, he went through his own hero's journey and emerged with a PhD in Literature and was awarded Liverpool City Region's Artist of the Year.

It was a trip to Jamaica in 1993 to find identity and escape the racism that found Ashleigh in a Jamaican detention centre. There, Ashleigh discovered, he was seen as the ‘white boy’. These are the events that inspired his debut novel LOCKS. It took Ashleigh nearly 30 years to get from a prison cell in Jamaica to a publishing deal with Picador.

Resources & Links:

Locks by Ashleigh Nugent - Pan Macmillan

Ashleigh Nugent - Author of 'LOCKS' - Out Now

Writing on the Wall - Supporting Writing in Liverpool City Region

Ascent Novel Prize | international writing competition

Connect with Ashleigh Nugent:

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Conversations on Craft – Détails, épisodes et analyse

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