Kill City

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Mark Brandi shares his remarkable journey from working in criminal justice to becoming an acclaimed novelist, discussing his writing process, character development, and the inspiration behind his compelling crime stories set in Australia. He also shares the journey to publication for his debut novel, Wimmera. It is an incredible story and could absolutely be its o...

Send us Fan Mail Don't miss part two of our conversation with Fiona Hardy. In this episodes we talk more about Fiona's journey to publication, but not only her two crime fiction works, but her three books for younger readers. Plus, as is always the way in part two of our author chats, she answers our quick and the curious round of questions.  The books of Fiona Hardy Unbury the Dead Old...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode we speak to Fiona Hardy, who shares her journey from writing children's books to becoming a published author of adult crime novels. She discusses her creative process, Melbourne setting, character development, and the surprises of the publishing world.  She tells us about her journey as an Australian crime writer, the creative process, editing, reader reaction...

Send us Fan Mail In part two of our conversation with Hayley Scrivenor we get a teaser for her next novel, and it is fascinating!  We talk Girl Falling and Hayley tackles our quick and the curious round and passes with flying colours... totally as expected! Find Hayley's books on Booktopia  Dirt Town Girl Falling https://hayleyscrivenor.com/ Booktopia Affiliate Program The Kill City Podcast i...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode Helen and Leigh speak to Hayley Scrivenor.  Hayley shares insights into her writing process, character development, and the evolution of her novels 'Dirt Town' and 'Girl Falling'. We discover how her background, research approach, and love for place shape her compelling stories. Hayley Scrivenor shares her journey as a writer, the creative proce...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we're joined by Troy Hunter who shares his journey from marketing professional to acclaimed young adult crime author.  We explore his writing process, the importance of place in storytelling, and how he thoughtfully handles complex themes like identity and mental health in his books.  In this episode, Troy Hunter shares his insights on the importance of diver...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we're joined by Troy Hunter who shares his journey from marketing professional to acclaimed young adult crime author.  We explore his writing process, the importance of place in storytelling, and how he thoughtfully handles complex themes like identity and mental health in his books.  In this episode, Troy Hunter shares his insights on the importance of diver...

Send us Fan Mail The 2026 Davitt Award winners have been announced, and in this bonus episode we look at these thoroughly deserving winners.  A huge congratulations to the below winners of this year's awards.  Learn more about the Davitt Awards and Sisters in Crime .  Best Adult Fiction:   Joanna Jenkins, The Bluff (Allen & Unwin) Best Nonfiction: Kate Wild, The Red House (Allen & Unw...

Send us Fan Mail In part two of our conversation with Sam Elliott, we talk about how he crafts his characters, including the lead character of his novel, Haze, Dahlia Turner (and 2027's Deep Fake).  He also discusses the solitary journey that is writing, the process of writing and re-writing and how his preferred kind of feedback is "brutal honesty, scorched earth... don't sugarcoat...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode Helen and Leigh speak to Sydney crime writer, Sam Elliott, who shares his journey from childhood obsessions to publishing his debut novel 'Haze'. Sam discusses character creation, researching for authenticity, and the intense process of bringing a story to life, including the impact of editing and the significance of Australian settings and themes.  Samue...

Send us Fan Mail In part two of our conversation with Sarah Bailey, we talk about the relationship she has with the team around her; her agent, editor and publisher and how this helps shape her work.  We talk about Ai and its impact, and then - as we always do - we finish part two with our quick and the curious questions... which is always fun! Books by Sarah Bailey The Gemma Woodstock series The...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode we speak to and explore the journey of Sarah Bailey, acclaimed crime writer known for her gripping crime thrillers. With a background in PR and communications, Sarah transitioned from a successful corporate career to focus on her writing.  Books by Sarah Bailey The Gemma Woodstock series The Dark Lake Into the Night Where the Dead Go Body of Lies The Oli Groves ser...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Leigh and Helen explore the vibrant landscape of Australian children's and young adult crime and mystery books. They discuss award-winning titles, influential authors like John Marsden, and upcoming releases, highlighting how these stories shape the next generation of readers and writers. Children's Book Week 2026 https://cbca.org.au/childrens-book-week/...

Send us Fan Mail In the second part of our conversation with Australian crime writer Dinuka Mackenzie, we dive into her new novel, She Lied First and continue our chat as she shares her journey from environmental planner to acclaimed crime. Author of the Kate Miles series, featuring a female detective navigating the chaotic world of regional policing and motherhood. With her debut novel, The Torre...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we're joined by Australian crime writer Dinuka Mackenzie, who shares her journey from environmental planner to  author, her writing process, and insights into her series featuring Detective Kate Miles. Discover how she crafts suspense, develops characters, and explores themes of family, identity, and resilience. Dinuka's books The Torrent (Kate Miles, bo...

Send us Fan Mail In this engaging conversation, Christine Gregory shares her unique journey into crime fiction, discussing her experiences as a writer, the development of her novels, and the intricate relationships that shape her stories.  She delves into the importance of character development, the challenges of writing from multiple perspectives, and the dynamics of father-daughter relationships...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Christine Gregory shares her journey from aspiring writer to published crime novelist, discussing her writing process, character development, research methods, and insights into the Australian crime fiction scene. A must-listen for aspiring authors and crime fiction fans alike. Christine Gregory's books The Informant The Community Chapters Introduction to Chr...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we explore the life and work of Australian crime fiction novelist Robert G. Barrett, creator of the Les Norton series. We discuss his background, writing style, cultural impact, and the enduring appeal of his books, despite their controversial content. Find Robert G Barrett's books on Booktopia Visit Booktopia A personal farewell - The Newtown Review of Books...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Leigh and Helen explore the rich landscape of Indigenous Australian crime writing, highlighting key authors, their works, and the cultural significance behind them. They discuss how these stories deepen our understanding of First Nations' voices and the importance of celebrating Indigenous storytelling year-round. Books and writers we talked about Melissa Luc...

Send us Fan Mail In part two of our in-depth conversation with Christian White, we continue to explore his writing process, inspiration, and the secrets behind his bestselling novels.  Christian also answers our rapid fire quick and the curious questions, giving us a peek behind the curtain! Novels by Christian White The Nowhere Child The Wife and the Widow The Wild Place The Ledge The Long Night...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, part one of our in-depth conversation with Christian White, we explore his writing process, inspiration, and the secrets behind his bestselling novels, including The Nowhere Child and The Long Night . Novels by Christian White The Nowhere Child The Wife and the Widow The Wild Place The Ledge The Long Night Contact Christian Other books we discussed On Writing , by...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we look at the Davitt Awards longlist, which has just been released.  This year, 126 books were entered into the 26th Davitt Awards, across four categories. The judges of the 2026 Davitt Awards have selected a longlist of 28 books that reflect the excellent quality and maturity of stories written by Australian women crime writers. These stories are notable for the...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode we explore the rich history and vibrant present of queer Australian crime fiction, highlighting pioneering authors like Fergus Hume and Dorothy Porter, and contemporary voices shaping the genre today. Key Topics History of queer Australian crime fiction Influence of Fergus Hume's 'The Mystery of the Handsome Cab' Dorothy Porter's groundbreaking...

Send us Fan Mail Join us for part two of our insightful conversation with author January Gilchrist, as she shares her journey into writing, character development, research adventures, and the realities of publishing. Discover tips for aspiring writers, the importance of authenticity, and her favorite Australian crime novels. Key Topics Journey into writing and publishing Character development and...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode we speak to the wonderful January Gilchrist, whose latest book, The Final Chapter is essential reading.  Join us as we explore her creative process, writing routines, and January's inspiring journey. Discover how she balances multiple genres, her experiences at Varuna, and insights into her upcoming novel 'Slake House' in this engaging interview. Jan...