The Truth about Fiction

Derek Thompson and Lynn Michell
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Tune in for insights, reflections and diversions about novel and short story writing, being published, and the creative process. Join Derek Thompson (British novelist and storyteller) in conversation with Lynn Michell (author of fiction and non-fiction and proprietor of Linen Press), as they chat about what it means to write and to be a writer, and the state of the publishing industry. With occasional reference to biscuits. Lynn: https://www.linen-press.com/authors/lynn-michell/ Derek: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Derek-Thompson/e/B0034ORY08

  1. May 12

    Episode 31 - Fantasy Fiction and Beyond

    This time Derek chats with fantasy and science-fiction author Carol Browne about her books, creative inspiration, bringing characters to life, folklore and enchantment, and what it's like to resume writing after taking a break. Carol's books: https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/author/B0034P87QC

    22 min

  2. Apr 19

    Episode 30 - Success

    This time, Derek reflects (talks to himself) on the publication of Death in Wiltshire - the third DS Craig Wild crime mystery, and also his tenth published novel. He considers how his idea of success has changed over time, what readers can do to help authors, and what authors can do to help themselves. Spoiler: hiding in a cupboard and hoping your book does well on its own is not recommended. https://www.amazon.co.uk//dp/B0GGV345QV

    10 min

  3. Jan 11

    Episode 29 - Dystopia

    This time, Derek speaks with Scott Fortune about his debut book - Parody or Prophecy: A dark British satire of control, corruption, and the collapse of common sense. We also discuss critical thinking on social media platforms and in real life, refer to current news events, talk about the importance of word-of-mouth marketing, lift the lid on Scott's creative process, and generally put the world to rights. ** THIS EPISODE CONTAINS ADULT LANGUAGE. ** Scott's book can be found here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FY1B5ZCQ

    30 min

  4. 12/18/2025

    Episode 28 - Ghost stories

    Derek shares a couple of traditional ghost stories, as well as the other sort that only writers know about. Don't have nightmares!

    14 min

  5. 11/24/2025

    Episode 27 - Imposter Syndrome

    This time we get under the skin of imposter syndrome, and why it may not always be a bad thing. Contains adult language. Recommended reading afterwards: https://johnnybtruant.substack.com/p/the-universe-doesnt-give-a-flying

    8 min

  6. 09/24/2025

    Episode 26 - Stoicism for Writers

    This time, Derek is joined by Matt Shewbridge to talk about the Stoic approach to writing and to living (through the four virtues of Wisdom, Courage, Temperance and Justice). Matt shares his personal journey to Stoicism and we consider character and writers, and the value of emotional and rational responses to life. We also discuss consumerism, feelings, and whether ET was a good film. Matt's website is: http://www.shewbridgecoaching.com/

    27 min

  7. 07/21/2025

    Episode 25 - It's a numbers game

    In this mini episode, Derek reviews the success (or not) of his recent endeavours, shares some vital statistics about authors and publishing, reveals the probability of a regional arts council grant for literature, and quotes an AI answer about the environmental impact of AI (you could call it Meta meta!).

    10 min

  8. 06/03/2025

    Episode 24 - Let's get personal

    Derek and Lynn are back in conversation together. This time we talk about Lynn's decision to stop writing for a while, consider whether authors choose a genre because of their own wiring, stretch Derek's 'bus' metaphor to breaking point and find a common element to all his books, and revisit the challenges of writing from personal experience. This episode contains reference to abuse.

    26 min
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About

Tune in for insights, reflections and diversions about novel and short story writing, being published, and the creative process. Join Derek Thompson (British novelist and storyteller) in conversation with Lynn Michell (author of fiction and non-fiction and proprietor of Linen Press), as they chat about what it means to write and to be a writer, and the state of the publishing industry. With occasional reference to biscuits. Lynn: https://www.linen-press.com/authors/lynn-michell/ Derek: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Derek-Thompson/e/B0034ORY08

Information

  • Creator
    Derek Thompson and Lynn Michell
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    31
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Derek Thompson and Lynn Michell
  • Show Website
    The Truth about Fiction