WRITING FAIRYTALES FOR GROWN-UPS

What does it take to turn folklore into a rich, immersive novel? This week on Writes4Women, guest host Jo Riccioni chats with the brilliant Kel Woods about crafting historical fantasy, blending research with imagination, and the writing process behind her stunning books After the Forest and Upon a Starlet Tide.

Kel shares how she found her unique voice, why mentorships transformed her writing, and the delicate balance between historical accuracy and storytelling magic. Plus—how do you create a male lead readers swoon over without falling into clichés? (Spoiler: Samuel might just be your new book boyfriend.)

For our Substack subscribers, there’s an exclusive bonus chat where Kel and Jo go deeper into the craft and business of publishing—don’t miss it!

Plug in. Get inspired. Let’s talk about writing stories that last.

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Kell Woods

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Jo Riccioni

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Pamela Cook

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This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal land.

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Welcome to Season 6 of Writes4Women!

Join host Pamela Cook and Megan Dalla-Camina, a leader in women's empowerment and leadership and author of 'Women Rising', as they delve deep into the psychological aspects of writing, discussing inner critics, procrastination, perfectionism, and imposter syndrome.

Both authors share personal anecdotes on how they manage their time, nurture their creativity, and handle feedback and criticism. Megan also speaks about the evolution of her writing process and balancing her many professional commitments, offering insights into maintaining resilience and cultivating a growth mindset.

The episode emphasises the importance of honouring individual writing processes and staying true to one's creative journey.

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Writes4Women

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Megan Dalla-Camina

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Pamela Cook

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This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal country.

Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=true

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Looking for inspiration as you wrap up the year? Ready to dive into the highs and lows of the writing life, with insights from writers who’ve truly walked the path?

This week on Writes4Women, it’s our 2024 Wrap-Up Episode! Join @pamelacookwrites as she chats with guest hosts @rachaeljohnsisanauthor @maryloustephenswriter, @joriccioni, and her VA @anniebucknall, reflecting on a transformative year in writing and podcasting.

Why you’ll love this episode:

Insider reflections: Hear how our guests overcame challenges, celebrated triumphs, and tackled their writing goals this year.

Behind-the-scenes wisdom: Discover how Annie’s role in managing Writes4Women’s socials and Substack has strengthened the podcast community.

Creative practices that work: Learn tips for building a sustainable writing habit, even amidst life’s chaos.

What’s next: Get a sneak peek into the exciting plans for 2025, from book releases to writing retreats and more.

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Annie Bucknall - Well Creative Services

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This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal country.

Celebrate the wins. Learn from the journey. Keep writing.

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Struggling to find your unique voice or create stories that truly resonate? Wondering how to weave big ideas into page-turning narratives?

This week on Writes4Women with @pamelacookwrites, best-selling author @nikki.gemmell shares the secrets behind her latest feminist literary thriller, Wing, and how she transformed personal experiences into powerful, compelling fiction.

Here’s why you don’t want to miss this episode:

Build unforgettable tension: Discover how Nikki crafts layers of suspense and mystery, weaving together themes of friendship, gender politics, and generational divides.

Write with authenticity: Learn about her unique approach to second-person narrative and why it creates such an intimate, immersive experience.

Channel personal experiences: Nikki shares how journaling and reflecting on her own life fuels her stories, including Wing, which reimagines the darkness of the Australian bush and explores the complexity of female friendships.

Stay inspired: Hear how Nikki balances a prolific writing career with family life while creating works that resonate deeply with readers.

Get Inspired. Get Encouraged. Get Writing.

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Nikki Gemmell

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Pamela Cook

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This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal country.

Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=true

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Struggling to write a story that hooks readers? Feeling unsure about how to balance plot, character, and big ideas?

This week on Writes4Women with Pamela Cook, Vanessa McCausland shares the secrets behind her latest novel, The Last Illusion of Paige White, and how she overcame the exact challenges you might be facing as a writer.

Here’s how listening can help YOU:
Tighten your plot: Vanessa breaks down how she crafted a twist so good her first reader (her husband, a plot genius) didn’t see it coming. Learn how to set up red herrings and keep readers guessing without losing the heart of your story.
Make your characters unforgettable: Discover how she layered emotional depth into her characters, giving them flaws, secrets, and complexity that resonate.
Get unstuck: Vanessa shares how she overcame self-doubt, followed her instincts, and pushed through creative risks to write her most ambitious book yet.
Navigate the writing process: From messy first drafts to revisions that matter, this episode is packed with practical tips to keep your project on track.

Whether you’re just starting out or deep in the trenches of a draft, this episode will give you fresh ideas, clarity, and the encouragement you need to write a story that stands out.

Get Inspired. Get Encouraged. Get Writing.

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Vanessa McCausland

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Pamela Cook

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This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal land.

Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=true

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Ever wanted to know how to edit a first draft?

In this week’s solo episode Pamela Cook focuses on the craft of editing, sharing all of her insider tips–from structural elements, point of view, voice and more. With resources and insights galore, this episode is like a free mentoring session with one of Australia’s best-love writing coaches.

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Writes4Women

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Buy Someone Like You here

Pamela Cook

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This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women and recorded on unceded Dharawal land.

Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=true

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join us for a fascinating chat with Sandy Barker, an Australian author known for her travel-inspired romance and rom-com novels.

With 12 books under her belt, Sandy shares insights into navigating the publishing industry, the importance of determination and resilience, as well as tips on keeping the joy of writing alive.

We discuss her latest books, writing schedules, the balance of travel and writing, and her unique approach to story planning. Plus, discover special content for Writes4Women Substack subscribers!

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Writes4Women

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W4W Patreon

https://www.writes4women.com/support-us-on-patreon

Sandy Barker

Website: click here

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Instagram: click here

Buy Someone Like You here

Pamela Cook

www.pamelacook.com.au

Facebook @pamelacookauthor

Twitter @PamelaCookAU

This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women and recorded on unceded Dharawal land.

Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=true

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jump into the latest episode of Writes4Women where Pamela Cook chats with international bestselling author Joanne Fedler about her enchanting new book, 'The Whale's Last Song.'

Joanne and Pamela share deep discussions on the writing process, the transformative power of words, and the inspiration drawn from the sea. Get a sneak peek into Jo's journey from law to literature, her raw reflections on grief, and the magic behind her storytelling.

AND paid Substack subscribers get an exclusive 15-minute bonus with must-hear writing tips!

SHOWNOTES:

Writes4Women

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W4W Patreon

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Joanne Fedler

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Buy The Whale's Last song here

Pamela Cook

www.pamelacook.com.au

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Twitter @PamelaCookAU

This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women and recorded on unceded Dharawal land.

Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=true

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.