David Headley is joined by historical fiction titan, Bernard Cornwell OBE. From the enduring presence of Richard Sharpe to the creation of The Last Kingdom, Bernard reflects on how history and curiosity have shaped his writing life.

Bernard opens up about why Sharpe still speaks to him after forty years, the challenge of writing around real history, and how a planned ending collapsed. From book collecting to acting on stage, enjoy this rare, personal insight into one of Britain’s most beloved historical novelists. 

After nearly a decade away from writing novels, Joe Hill returned this year with King Sorrow, a bold, ferocious, genre-blurring epic that fuses horror, high fantasy, dark academia, rare books, and a Faustian bargain with devastating consequences.

In this conversation, Joe joins David Headley to talk about writing a 900-page novel that never lets up, why big books have to move fast, and how six friends summoning a dragon becomes a story about power, complicity, and the stories we choose to live with. Along the way, they explore books bound in human skin, libraries as battlegrounds, the moral cost of comfort, and why genre labels matter far less than telling a great story. Plus, Joe reveals a major exclusive… only on Confessions of a Book Collector.

Confessions of a Book Collector returns soon for its fifth (and most thrilling!) series. Tune in for a first look at the legendary authors, collectors, and surprise guests who’ll be sharing their stories.

We close this series of Confessions of a Book Collector with a sparkling conversation with one of Britain’s best-loved storytellers, Adele Parks MBE.

Over the past 25 years, Adele has written 25 novels spanning romance, historical fiction, family drama and psychological thrillers - and she’s still brimming with ideas. In this episode, Adele reflects on her extraordinary career, the nerves and excitement that come with every new book, and the unwavering support that’s helped her along the way.

She also gives us a first look at her brand-new novel Our Beautiful Mess - our Crime Collective Book Club pick for September - a gripping family drama full of secrets, twists and danger.

A joyful, energised finale to the series, celebrating a writer at the very top of her game.

From stage to page, murder-mystery author Jamie West has cracked the code to self-publishing success. His Murder at the Matinee was shortlisted for the 2025 CWA Whodunnit Dagger Award, and his novels have climbed the Amazon bestseller charts.

By night, Jamie works backstage on some of London’s biggest West End shows. By day, he’s built a thriving career as a self-published author.

From shaping his covers and marketing campaigns to building a loyal readership, Jamie explains why he chose the indie route over traditional publishing, and shares his advice for anyone wishing to take the same path.

In this uplifting episode, David sits down with Florence Knapp, author of one of 2025’s biggest debut novels, The Names. 

Together they explore how the smallest shifts in your routine and the most ordinary decisions can alter the entire course of your life. 

Listen now, to this truly joyful episode.

From touring Europe as a musician, to a 12 year career in publishing working with some of the world’s biggest authors - Hattie William’s is now a celebrated debut author whose novel Bittersweet has secured a six figure deal with Orion Fiction.

Set in the heady, complex world of London publishing, Bittersweet explores a toxic age-gap relationship, the messy beauty of female friendship, and the hidden wounds that shape our choices.

Hattie opens up about how the story and characters arrived, and her history as a reader. We discuss everything from Ted Hughes and Sylvia Plath to friendship, grief, ambition, and emotional dependency - plus the unexpected joy of writing strong, surprising friendships.

If you’ve ever wondered how a book club works, and how the books are chosen, then this is for you.

In this special episode, David turns the page back to where it all began 20 years ago, from PREM1ER’s humble origins to the powerhouse book collecting community it is now.

Find out how it all started, why it’s so popular with readers and revisit some of the standout titles that have shaped its story - from the very first pick to recent international bestsellers.

What happens when a brand strategist discovers they can craft award-winning novels? International bestselling author Lex Noteboom joins David to share his incredible journey from his science fiction podcast The Deca Tapes (which landed him multiple book deals in the UK and US) to creating his latest novel, The Man with a Thousand Faces.

Lex reveals his intense world-building writing process, including creating an entire fictional country with its own political systems and maps. Discover when he first realised he could be an author, his biggest fiction influences, and his unique approach to writing bestselling novels.

In this episode we speak to international bestselling author, Will Carver, known for his dark, genre-defying thrillers. Will has been described as ‘arguably the most original writer in Britain’, and if you’ve read his work, you’ll understand why. He’s written mind-bending novels including Good Samaritans, Nothing Important Happened Today and many more, which blend gritty crime, sharp satire and physiological suspense.

Our conversation explores Will’s highly anticipated new novel Kill Them With Kindness, a dark, funny and speculative thriller described as ‘widely original’ and ‘slightly bonkers'. We go behind the scenes to uncover how he creates his mould-breaking thrillers, and take a peek at his personal book collection that’s shaped his writing.

In this episode of Confessions of a Book Collector, David Headley sits down with publishing trailblazer and founder of Orenda Books, Karen Sullivan. Celebrating ten years of her fiercely independent publishing house, Karen shares the story behind Orenda’s rise. From championing fiction in translation, to building a loyal community of readers and authors. Expect candid chat about the challenges facing publishers today, the risk and reward of translated fiction, why branding matters, and what makes a book truly stand out in a crowded market.

In this episode of Confessions of a Book Collector, David Headley sits down with the wildly talented Beth Lewis to explore her stunning new novel, The Rush - a gripping historical crime thriller set during the Yukon Gold Rush of 1898. 

Beth shares what drew her to this icy, lawless frontier and why she chose to spotlight the extraordinary women who braved it. 

From real-life inspiration and wild west research (including actual gold panning!) to the craft of building unforgettable characters, Beth opens up about her creative process, queer representation in fiction, and the beauty of writing women who refuse to be overlooked. 

Whether you're here for the history, the mystery, or the pure love of books, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

David Headley sits down with bestselling author Pierce Brown for a conversation that spans rejection, resilience, world-building, and rare books.

Pierce reflects on the years before Red Rising (when more than 130 agents turned him down) and how a moment of creative risk helped change everything. He also shares the unexpected moment of inspiration that sparked the tone of Red Rising and what’s next for Darrow.

A warm, candid conversation full of inspiration for readers, writers, and collectors alike. 

In this episode, David sits down with the inimitable Joe Abercrombie - renowned epic fantasy author and film editor.

With his signature humour and insights, Joe discusses building a reimagined medieval Europe, creating complex characters (such as his irresistible vampire, badass librarian and undead knight), whilst sharing the inspiration and journey behind his gripping new trilogy, The Devils.

British-Nigerian Emmy nominee Remi Kone - known for hit TV shows like Killing Eve and Spooks - joins us to talk about her leap from the screen to the page. In this intriguing episode, Remi explores her love of reading and top book recommendations (possibly the most we've ever had on an episode!), and takes us behind the scenes of her breathtaking debut crime thriller, Innocent Guilt.

Find out what happens when an earth shattering identity crisis takes you from promoting other people’s books, to writing your own.

In this episode, David interviews Georgia Leighton, a senior publishing marketing manager turned debut fantasy author. 

Discover more about her new novel Spellbound: an enchanting new fantasy and feminist retelling of the classic Sleeping Beauty fairy tale.

Author Robert Rutherford — master of dilemma novels — explores his terrific, cinematic new thriller, The Missing Hour.

Find out how Robert came up with such a unique concept, as he shares his honest journey into becoming a crime author, including his route to publication, the challenges along the way, and what author life is like post-publication.

A delightful listen and a fascinating glimpse inside the mind of a crime writer.

In this episode, we’re joined by the multi-talented Barnaby Martin. Composer, video essayist, chemistry teacher… and now, acclaimed dystopian thriller author.
We dive into his gripping new novel, set in a near-future world transformed by a mysterious force known as the Sound Field. At its heart? A hauntingly original story of parenting through an unimaginable apocalypse.

Barnaby’s path to becoming a writer is anything but ordinary. A self-taught, award winning composer, he brings a fresh, outsider energy to the thriller genre - along with a creative perspective shaped by science, sound, and storytelling.

Crime fiction addicts, this one’s for you. In this episode of Confessions of a Book Collector, we’re diving into the hottest and most highly anticipated crime novels of 2025. Books that are guaranteed to dominate the bestseller lists, keep you glued to your reading seat and completely destroy your sleep schedule…

Listen now, to reveal the top crime novels of 2025.

In this episode, David sits down with the brilliant Clare Leslie Hall to celebrate the launch of Broken Country—hailed as the year’s most addictive love story. Clare shares how the novel’s unforgettable characters first appeared in her mind, the inspiration behind its intense love triangle, and the highs and lows of bringing a book to life. A must-listen for book lovers, aspiring writers, and anyone who craves a story that lingers long after the last page.

What happens when an author’s voice lingers long after the story ends? In this episode, we dive into the brilliant mind of Nnedi Okorafor, the award-winning pioneer of Africanfuturism, as she challenges the concept of authorial control in her provocative new novel, Death of the Author. Known for blending African mythology, science fiction, and deeply personal narratives, Okorafor’s latest work isn’t just a book—it’s a reckoning.

Essie Fox is an author who weaves rich, gothic tales inspired by the Victorian era. Her novels are brimming with history, mystery and just the right touch of the macabre. From her debut book The Somnambulist, to her latest work Dangerous, she transports readers into shadowy atmospheric worlds with dark secrets.

Beyond her own writing she’s also a devoted collector of books.

Join us to get to know the stories behind the stories, in our latest episode. 

In this episode, David takes you on a tour of the fascinating world of book collecting and book clubs. David reflects on his personal journey into book collecting, sharing some treasures from his own library, whilst exploring the rich history of this beloved pastime.

From the trailblazers who shaped the publishing world to the evolution of book clubs, we celebrate the art, the joy, and the community of book collecting.

Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a first time buyer or just someone who loves books - this episode is for you.

BBC Presenter and Chief International Correspondent, Lyse Doucet,  shares the remarkable inspiration and writing process for her new book The Finest Hotel in Kabul, a vivid, human history of Afghanistan told through the people who worked inside its most iconic hotel.

They explore how a single building became a witness to decades of hope, heartbreak and resilience, and why the everyday lives of waiters, chefs and housekeepers can reveal more about a country than any headline.

2025 is shaping up to be a phenomenal year for storytelling. From heart-pounding thrillers to thought-provoking literary fiction and immersive fantasy worlds, the year ahead promises a stellar lineup of must-read titles.

In the kickoff to series four, David shares a sneak peak of 25 of the most anticipated releases of 2025.

From London trader to bestselling author, Chris Whitaker shares the dramatic twists and turns of his life and how a violent experience led him to embrace writing. Chris, the acclaimed author of novels like Tall Oaks and We Begin At The End, discusses his unique creative process and his highly anticipated upcoming book, All The Colours Of The Dark.

David interviews bestselling author Joanne Harris, discussing her highly anticipated novel, The Moonlight Market.

Joanne, who has penned over 19 novels and is known for huge literary hits such as Chocolat, which was adapted into an Oscar-nominated film, gives us a glimpse into her early life as an author, sharing the inspiration behind some of her most complex characters and writing. 

She also reflects on her journey from teacher to published novelist. This episode is not one to miss - listen now.

In the final episode of our Pride Month series, David talks to former BBC journalist and award-winning author AJ West, who shares an open and heartfelt account of his journey to becoming a published novelist. Go behind the scenes of his critically acclaimed debut and uncover the inspiration behind his latest eagerly awaited release, The Betrayal of Thomas True. This episode promises laughter, deep insights, and truly touching moments.

David interviews Dr Layla McCay, Director of Policy at the NHS Confederation, psychiatrist, and author of the recent non fiction hit 'Breaking The Rainbow Ceiling'. Layla shares the challenges facing LGBTQ+ professionals as they navigate their careers and we explore some of her most treasured reads. This is the third episode in our Pride Month series.

Join us in our Pride Month series as David sits down with Stefan, one half of the dynamic duo behind the celebrated travel blog, The Nomadic Boys. Since quitting their jobs and leaving behind their London lives in 2014, Stefan and his partner Sebastien have been on a global journey, sharing their adventures and invaluable insights through their popular blog.

In this episode, Stefan discusses their upcoming debut book, "The Gay Guide to Travelling with Pride: Out In The World." Discover the inspiration behind the book and listen to Stefan's stories about navigating travel in countries where being gay is still taboo or even illegal. 

Join us as we launch our Pride Month series with an insightful interview featuring the brilliant Abi Fellows. Recently shortlisted for Agent of the Year at the Bookseller Awards, Abi is dedicated to championing minority voices in the publishing world. Tune in to hear her inspiring journey and invaluable insights into the industry.

Ahead of her appearance at the Capital Crime Festival, David sits down with acclaimed author Kellye Garrett, a US-based expert in crafting compulsive thriller page-turners. Tune in to discover the book that sparked her passion for thriller fiction at the tender age of five, explore her favourite thriller reads, and hear her insightful views on diversity within the genre.

In this interview, David speaks to one of the most important people in books in the UK, the incredible Amanda Ross. 

Amanda is the co-founder of Cactus TV,  and is behind major book-based campaigns such as Richard & Judy’s Book Club, and the televising of The Galaxy National Book Awards and the Crime Thriller Awards.

Amanda has a true passion for books, and has helped to start the career of so many brilliant authors, it was a joy to have her on the show to discuss her experience.

Sam Burr is no stranger to creating a good story. He’s produced some of TV’s most memorable documentaries, such as the BAFTA nominated The Secret Life Of 4 Year Olds. In this delightful interview, we explore Sam’s foray into fiction writing, discovering where the inspiration for his very clever debut novel, The Fellowship Of Puzzlemakers, originated, and of course, we dive into his love of reading and his most treasured books.

Former deputy editor of the Independent on Sunday, James Hanning, takes us behind the scenes of The Bookseller of Hay, his immersive portrait of Richard Booth, the man whose eccentric brilliance (and spectacular unruliness!) turned Hay-on-Wye into a world-famous literary destination.

We talk about Booth’s larger-than-life personality, his love–hate relationship with the Hay Festival, his spectacular mischief, and the contradictions that made him both impossible and irresistible. James also shares how his upbringing and his instinct for “getting to the bottom of things” shaped this book and career.

We speak to dynamic duo Chris and Jen Sugden, authors of the recent Sunday Times bestselling book, High Voltage, and masterminds behind the critically acclaimed audio drama podcast, Victoriocity.

The duo explain what it takes to create a bestselling book and successful drama podcast, how to create gripping characters and stories that resonate, and share their top underrated authors.

From dealing with dangerous individuals in her policing days to creating compelling crime fiction characters for her new novels, T M Payne is poised to be the new rising star in Crime Fiction.

Listen as we explore her journey from working in the justice system to breaking into the crime fiction scene. Tina also gives us a sneak peak into her highly anticipated new crime novel ‘Long Time Dead’.

In this brilliant conversion, bestselling titan of crime fiction, Mark Billingham, shares his deep-seated passion and history of book collecting, whilst revealing a major exclusive on his latest novel. 

Listen as Mark reminisces on unforgettable encounters with literary icons, whilst reflecting on his own journey from a fan attending author signings, to sitting behind the signing table himself as a celebrated author.

See Mark at Capital Crime Festival on Saturday 1st June in London. 

An engaging conversation into the intricate world of a publisher editor. Katherine offers an insider’s perspective on the editorial process and the journey of a book from manuscript to a book on a shelf.

We dive deeper into the world of publishing as David interviews former actor turned agent, Emily Glenister. Emily shares her expert advice on how to submit to an agent, where her passion for books originated from and reveals her own unique book collection and treasured gems.

Today’s episode dives into the art of book collecting. David, who’s been collecting signed first edition books ever since he was a young teenager, explores how book collecting has evolved over the decades and shares tips and guidance for starting (or enhancing) your own collection. Plus, get a glimpse into some of David’s most cherished collectables.

Jennie Godfrey’s debut novel, The List Of Suspicious Things is already tipped to be a huge runaway success, so we were delighted to sit down with Jennie ahead of its launch for this incredible interview.

Discover the surprising way the idea behind the book was formed, learn about her career move from businesswoman to author and get an exclusive on her follow up book, already in the works!

Want to receive limited edition copies of highly anticipated books like The List Of Suspicious Things? Find out more about our PREM1ER Book Club.

Join David as he sits down with Capital Crime Festival Director, Lizzie Curle, to unveil the most anticipated crime thrillers of 2024. Lizzie shares her personal favourites and drops exclusive announcements about the upcoming Capital Crime Festival that you simply don’t want to miss!

🔍 Book your early bird tickets now for Capital Crime 2024 at capitalcrime.org

📲 Follow Capital Crime on socials for the latest news and author announcements:
X (formally Twitter): /capitalcrime1
Instagram: @capitalcrime1 

Join David Headley, the renowned Literary Agent and Managing Director at Goldsboro Books, on a literary voyage through the standout novels of 2023. David also unveils the must-read books that will define your reading list in 2024. Get ready for a journey into new voices, fresh perspectives, and untold adventures…

Find out more about our Premier special edition book club to get future bestsellers and highly anticipated debut novels delivered to your door each month.

In this fascinating episode, David speaks to the multi-talented Suzie Edge: a medical doctor, TikTok sensation and the bestselling author of ‘Mortal Monarchs’. 

They discuss the monarchy, ethical dilemmas tied to scientific body exhumation and where Suzie finds the inspiration for her unique books.

In this episode of Confessions of a Book Collector, David sits down with acclaimed novelist, journalist and broadcaster Sebastian Faulks to explore the restless creative energy that drives his work.

Sebastian discusses his latest release, Fires Which Burned Brightly: A Life in Progress,  a collection of essays born from his lifelong compulsion to write.

From the childhood books that first sparked his imagination to the literary heroes and signed first editions he treasures today, this is an honest look at the writer behind the words.

Join us for a captivating episode as we sit down with the extraordinary wordsmith, Anita Frank. In this engaging interview, David delves into the intriguing world of Anita's latest literary masterpiece, "The Good Liars," a tale with enigmatic characters where everyone is hiding something. 

Discover why readers are already raving about her story that skilfully keeps them on the edge of their seats until the final page. Explore the essence of Anita's unique writing style as she shares her inspirations and creative process. From her debut steps in storytelling at the tender age of 6 to becoming a luminous figure in the literary realm, Anita's journey as a masterful writer unfolds in our conversation.

Join us in this captivating episode as we delve into the remarkable life of Graham Bartlett, an esteemed former Police Chief who has transformed into a highly acclaimed crime fiction author and a sought-after advisor to crime and TV writers.

Graham reveals the inspiration behind his unique storytelling approach - one that uncovers angles previously unexplored - and shares details on his most recent gripping release, "Force of Hate,”.

Order your signed first edition copy of Force of Hate from Goldsboro Books today.

David speaks to Capital Crime festival director Lizzie Curle, in this exciting announcement. 

Find out what’s on at this year’s most anticipated book festival for crime lovers, taking place in London this August 31st to September 2nd.

Haven’t got your tickets yet? After last year’s sell out, we recommend you book early to avoid disappointment. Get your tickets here: https://www.capitalcrime.org 

David interviews global bestselling author, Jack Jordan, to discover the inspiration behind his uniquely dark storytelling.

Explore the books that have shaped his journey from childhood to present, how he proved the naysayers wrong and find out more about his latest pule-racing thriller, Conviction.

Plus, David and Jack bond over their shared disdain for the traditional education system, and Jack reveals how he created the brand behind his bestsellers.

Find exclusive signed, first edition copies of Jack's latest book, Conviction at Goldsboro Books.