The Truth about Fiction

Derek Thompson
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Tune in for insights, reflections and diversions about novel and short story writing, being published, and the creative process. Join me, Derek Thompson, a British novelist and storyteller, as I delve into the creative process, what it means to write and to be a writer, and what's happening in the publishing industry. If you're lucky there'll be a guest to chat with; if not I'll be rambling on my own. Fledgling website: http://www.dt-books.co.uk Sales page: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Derek-Thompson/e/B0034ORY08

  1. Sep 11

    Episode 33 - Life Writing

    This time Derek chats with Nancy Thompson (no relation!) about life writing and how she came to her book, living in a commune as a child, reclaiming a narrative, and the importance of perspectives - on and off the page. There are also insights about attitudes to fiction, reflections on encountering prejudice, amnd some great book recommendations. Nancy's substack, Child of the Commune, is here: https://nancythompson731.substack.com/ * The author we couldn't think of is Colum McCann. (All I knew was that it wasn't Jack London !)

  2. Aug 27

    Episode 32 - Continuity

    Another short one, so grab a cuppa and a biscuit. It's all change for the podcast, and my Thomas Bladen spy series; but it's also business as usual.

  3. 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

  4. 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

  5. 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

  6. 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!

  7. 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. 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/

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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 me, Derek Thompson, a British novelist and storyteller, as I delve into the creative process, what it means to write and to be a writer, and what's happening in the publishing industry. If you're lucky there'll be a guest to chat with; if not I'll be rambling on my own. Fledgling website: http://www.dt-books.co.uk Sales page: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Derek-Thompson/e/B0034ORY08

Information

  • Creator
    Derek Thompson
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    33
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Derek Thompson
  • Show Website
    The Truth about Fiction