The Write Place (formerly The Joined Up Writing Podcast)

Wayne Kelly
  • 5.0 (15)
  • Books
  • Updated Semiweekly

Joined Up Writing is now The Write Place! A new name but the same great content - hundreds of interviews with writers giving the stories behind their books and paths to publication. Packed with advice, inspiration and tips and hosted by crime writer, producer and writing coach, Wayne Kelly, The Write Place is a regular podcast for writers and book lovers. Tuesdays on the Web, iTunes, Android and Spotify.

  1. Jun 1

    Sonya Walger: Writing, Acting and Identity

    This week on The Write Place Podcast, I’m joined by actress, podcaster and author Sonya Walger. Many listeners will know Sonya from her roles in Lost, For All Mankind, FlashForward, The Catch and many more, but she is also the author of the acclaimed debut novel Lion and her latest book, Wifehouse. In our conversation, Sonya talks about the idea behind Wifehouse, a novel about a woman who leaves her family, and why she wanted to explore that story without judgement. We discuss marriage, motherhood, identity, multiple points of view, and the difficult creative challenge of writing a character readers may not approve of but can still understand.  We also talk about Sonya’s move from acting into fiction, how years of inhabiting other characters have shaped her as a novelist, and why she finds writing so liberating after a career spent waiting for permission to play a part. Along the way, Sonya shares her thoughts on rejection, creative fear, handwriting first drafts, journalling, writing on planes, and why reading is one of the most important ways we practise empathy. And of course, we cover the usual Write Place favourites, including the Book That Saved Your Life, where Sonya chooses The Portrait of a Lady by Henry James and Revolutionary Road by Richard Yates. A thoughtful, generous and wide-ranging conversation about writing, performance, creativity and the need to keep feeding the artist in you. Links Sonya’s website: https://sonya-walger.com/ Sonya on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sonyawalgerofficial/ Bookish with Sonya Walger: https://bookishwithsonyawalger.com/ Buy Wifehouse: https://www.waterstones.com/book/wifehouse/sonya-walger/9781786586384 My book, Real Writers Never Quit: https://mybook.to/realwritersneverquit Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrkelly2u/

    50 min

  2. May 20

    Never Too Young to Write Your Book: Foluso Agbaje on Writing, Creativity and The Talk of the Party

    Hi, I’m Wayne Kelly, a writer, podcast host and coach. I love to help writers develop their skills and get their books and stories out into the world. This week I’m joined by Nigerian author Foluso Agbaje, whose latest novel, The Talk of the Party, is a gripping family drama and thriller set against the backdrop of an extravagant Lagos birthday celebration where long-buried secrets begin to unravel.   We talk about writing across cultures, the pressure of social expectations within Nigerian society, and how reading contemporary African fiction helped Foluso realise there was space for stories that reflected her own experiences and identity. We also discuss creativity, balancing writing with family life, learning the craft through the Faber Academy, and why there’s no single ‘correct’ writing process.   As always, there’s plenty here for writers at every stage of the journey. About Foluso Agbaje Foluso Agbaje is a Nigerian writer whose novels explore family, identity, class, secrets and social expectations within contemporary Nigerian society. Her debut novel, *The Parlour Wife*, introduced readers to her emotionally rich and character-driven storytelling, while her latest novel, The Talk of the Party, blends family drama and suspense against the vibrant backdrop of Lagos high society. Foluso currently lives in Dubai with her family. Episode Highlights • The inspiration behind The Talk of the Party and why Lagos high society became the perfect setting for hidden secrets and family drama. • How Foluso’s early reading shaped her identity as a writer and the importance of seeing contemporary African stories in publishing. • The realities of learning the craft through the Faber Academy and online writing resources. • Why there’s no single writing process and how each book demands something different. • Creativity, morning pages, artist dates, and finding time to write around family life. • The differences between working in corporate life and navigating the publishing industry. The Book That Saved Your Life Foluso chose Everything Good Will Come by Sefi Atta. Reading a contemporary Nigerian novel for the first time helped her realise that stories rooted in her own culture and experiences could connect with readers around the world. Find Out More You can find Foluso Agbaje online across Instagram and other social platforms by searching her name. Her latest novel, The Talk of the Party, is available now. Links and Extras If you enjoyed this episode, check out my book Real Writers Never Quit: What Hundreds of Authors Reveal About Not Giving Up, available now.   You can also find my self-publishing packages, mentoring and writing resources at: wkwproductions.co.uk/selfpublishing   Follow me on Instagram: @MrKelly2u

    47 min

  3. May 4

    Mark Stay on Fantasy, Film, Publishing and Creative Survival

    REAL WRITERS NEVER QUIT: What hundreds of authors reveal about not giving up is out right now!  https://mybook.to/realwritersneverquit Special limited signed editions are available from my online shop here: https://ko-fi.com/wakelly/shop This week on The Write Place Podcast, I’m joined by author, screenwriter and podcaster Mark Stay for a wide-ranging, funny and very honest conversation about writing fantasy, surviving the publishing industry, selling direct to readers, and why author voice matters more than ever in the age of AI. Mark is the author of The Witches of Woodville series, the End of Magic trilogy, and the novelisation of Robot Overlords. He also co-wrote the films Robot Overlords and Unwelcome, and was co-presenter of the award-winning Bestseller Experiment podcast, which has helped inspire writers around the world to finish and publish their books. We talk about his latest release, The End of Gods, the final book in the End of Magic trilogy, and how Mark returned to the world of the first book years later after getting the rights back. We also get into his experience of crowdfunding, the changing realities of traditional publishing, and why more writers are having to think seriously about direct sales, newsletters and owning their own little corner of the internet. Mark also shares some sharp, practical thoughts on AI and creativity. His view is refreshingly clear: readers want a human connection. They want voice, weirdness, personality and something only that writer could have made. Along the way, we discuss screenwriting, theme, Comic Cons, author branding, what happens when a film doesn’t get the push it deserves, and why learning to enjoy the process might be the only sane way to build a long-term writing life. In this episode, you’ll hear:  Why The End of Gods became the final part of a fantasy trilogy Mark never originally planned  How Mark approaches fantasy by focusing on character over magic systems  Why he thinks writers should “lean into the weird”  The importance of developing a distinctive author voice in the age of AI  Why writers need websites, newsletters and direct connections with readers  What Comic Cons have taught him about selling books face to face  How his screenwriting background shapes his novels  Why the “central dramatic argument” changed the way he thinks about story  The painful release experience behind the film Unwelcome Why enjoying the process matters more than chasing overnight success About Mark Stay Mark Stay is a novelist, screenwriter, teacher and podcaster. After more than 25 years working in books and publishing, he became the author of The Witches of Woodville series, the End of Magic trilogy, and other novels. He co-wrote the films Robot Overlords and Unwelcome, and was co-presenter of the award-winning Bestseller Experiment podcast. His latest release is The End of Gods, the concluding book in the End of Magic trilogy. Find out more about Mark Stay Website: https://markstaywrites.com Witches of Woodville and signed books: https://witchesofwoodville.com The End of Gods: https://witchesofwoodville.com/product/the-end-of-gods-ebook/ Support the Podcast If you enjoy the show, please leave a rating or review on your podcast app of choice. It really helps more writers find the show and literally takes seconds to do.

    1h 5m

  4. Apr 20

    Selling Millions of Books as an Indie Author: Steve Higgs on Ads, Output, and Writing for a Living

    REAL WRITERS NEVER QUIT: What hundreds of authors reveal about not giving up is out RIGHT NOW! https://mybook.to/realwritersneverquit Special limited signed editions available from my online shop here. In this episode of The Write Place Podcast, I’m joined by bestselling indie author Steve Higgs, who’s built a remarkable career writing and publishing across multiple genres, with over 150 books to his name. We talk about his journey from the military and corporate life into full-time writing, the realities of making a living as an indie author, and the business mindset required to scale book sales beyond a hobby. Steve also shares the story behind his hugely popular Albert Smith series, including the latest paperback release of Pork Pie Pandemonium, a cosy mystery set in Melton Mowbray that blends humour, food, and murder in equal measure. Along the way, we get into marketing, mindset, and what it really takes to turn writing into a sustainable career. In this episode, you’ll hear:  How Steve transitioned from a 25-year military career to full-time author  The turning point that made him take writing seriously as a business  Why most indie authors fail to sell books and what to do differently  The reality of spending heavily on ads and making it pay  How Pork Pie Pandemonium became his fastest-selling book  The pros and cons of indie vs traditional publishing  Why understanding genre is more important than most writers realise  Steve’s high-output writing process and how he sustains it About Steve Higgs Steve Higgs is a UK-based author known for his prolific output across cosy mystery, urban fantasy, and thriller genres. A former soldier and corporate professional, he turned to writing later in life and has since published over 150 books, selling millions of copies worldwide. His work is particularly known for its humour, fast pacing, and engaging characters, including the popular Albert Smith series featuring a retired detective and his sharp-witted German Shepherd. Featured Book Pork Pie Pandemonium The first book in the Albert Smith series, now released in paperback, follows a retired detective superintendent and his dog as they travel the UK solving mysteries… starting with a grisly discovery in a Melton Mowbray pork pie. As Steve explains, the book combines humour, mystery, and a strong central relationship between man and dog, with the added twist of the reader hearing the dog’s thoughts throughout.  Find out more about Steve Website: https://stevehiggsbooks.com Final Thoughts Steve’s approach is not subtle. He treats writing as both craft and business, and he’s willing to invest heavily in marketing to scale his results. That’s not a model that suits everyone, but it does underline a key point: writing the book is only half the job. If you’re serious about making a living from your writing, this is a conversation worth paying attention to. Support the Podcast If you enjoy the show, please leave a rating or review on your podcast app of choice. It really helps more writers find the show and literally takes seconds to do!

    49 min

  5. Apr 17

    From Traditional to Self-Publishing: Nikki Moore on Becoming a Hybrid Author

    My New Book - out April 21st, 2026! REAL WRITERS NEVER QUIT: What hundreds of authors reveal about not giving up https://mybook.to/realwritersneverquit This week on The Write Place Podcast, I’m joined once again by author Nikki Moore, returning to the show on the eve of a major milestone. After years of traditional publishing with HarperCollins, Nikki has taken the leap into self-publishing with her brand new novel Magical Beginnings in Little Bowbrook, writing under a new pen name, Bella Brightside. We dig into what drove that decision, the realities of going indie, and what she’s learned along the way. It’s an honest, practical conversation about control, risk, patience, and backing yourself as a writer, whether you’re just starting out or already established. We also talk about hybrid authorship, building a launch strategy, and why readers ultimately care far less about publishing routes than writers think. In This Episode, We Cover: Why Nikki turned down a traditional book dealThe decision to self-publish and become a hybrid authorThe steep learning curve of distribution, formatting, and productionBuilding a professional product as an indie authorLaunch strategy, timing, and pre-ordersThe myth of stigma around self-publishingWriting process: from pantser to structured plotterThe realities of juggling writing with a full-time jobPractical advice for writers considering the indie routeAbout Nikki Moore Nikki Moore is a UK-based author of contemporary romance and women’s fiction. She has been traditionally published by HarperCollins and is known for writing uplifting, emotionally resonant stories centred around love, community, and resilience. She also writes under the pen names Ella Allbright and, more recently, Bella Brightside, reflecting different sub-genres within her work. With the release of Magical Beginnings in Little Bowbrook, Nikki has now stepped into self-publishing, making her a hybrid author. Find Out More About Nikki Website: https://nickimooreauthor.wordpress.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorbythesea1207Links & Resources Mentioned Tea Leaves & Reads Bookshop (Andover): https://www.tealeavesandreads.co.ukVellum (formatting software): https://vellum.pubScrivener: https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivenerSupport the Podcast If you enjoy the show, please consider leaving a rating or review on your podcast app of choice. It really helps more writers find the show. Final Thought Nikki’s experience highlights a simple truth that’s easy to overlook. There isn’t one “right” way to build a writing career. There’s only the path that makes sense for you at that moment. The key is being willing to learn, adapt, and back your own judgement.

    45 min

  6. Mar 31

    Finish the Book: Ilona Andrews on Hard Truths About Writing, Publishing and Persistence

    Follow me on Instagram - @Mrkelly2u My new book on Writing - REAL WRITERS NEVER QUIT: What hundreds of authors reveal about not giving up is currently available to pre-order at a special pre-release only price  of £2.99/$3.99 and, for UK listeners, you can buy a special signed paperback version with limited edition postcard and bookmark - RIGHT NOW! Buy limited edition signed paperback here Pre-order Kindle version here In this episode, I’m joined by bestselling husband-and-wife writing duo Ilona Andrews, who have been writing together professionally since 2007. We dive into what it really looks like to build a long-term writing career as a partnership, how they’ve navigated both traditional and self-publishing, and why removing ego from the creative process is essential if you want to produce your best work. We also talk about their latest novel This Kingdom Will Not Kill Me, a departure into epic fantasy, and how it came from an idea that simply wouldn’t leave them alone. Along the way, there’s plenty of honest insight into the realities of publishing, the importance of finishing what you start, and why writing is less about inspiration and more about showing up and doing the work. ✍️ In This Episode, We Cover: How Ilona Andrews make co-writing actually work in practiceThe origin and concept behind This Kingdom Will Not Kill MeThe shift from urban fantasy into epic fantasyThe realities of traditional publishing vs self-publishingWhy self-publishing offers freedom but comes with trade-offsThe importance of finishing a book, not just starting one🧠 Best Advice from the Episode “If it works, do it.”“Give yourself permission to write badly so you can finish.”“You have to put your butt in the chair and make words.”“50 unfinished books equal zero finished books.”🌐 Find Out More About Ilona Andrews Website: https://ilona-andrews.com They’re particularly active on their blog, sharing writing insights, industry thoughts and the occasional slice of everyday life. This Kingdom Will Not Kill Me is available now from all major retailers, including special editions through UK outlets such as Waterstones.

    39 min

  7. Mar 11

    Margot Douaihy: Punk Rock, Faith, and Crime Fiction (Divine Ruin)

    In this episode of The Write Place Podcast, Wayne Kelly welcomes back award-winning author Margot Douaihy. Margot first appeared on the show when her debut crime novel Scorched Grace introduced readers to Sister Holiday – a chain-smoking, tattooed nun with a punk past and a talent for solving crimes. Now Margot returns to talk about the latest instalment in the series, Divine Ruin, and how the character – and the world around her – has evolved. We talk about writing crime fiction that blends faith, punk rock, and noir sensibilities, the discipline required to build a successful series, and the emotional realities of sustaining a creative career. Margot also reflects on the challenges writers face when success arrives suddenly, the pressure of expectations, and why returning to the page is always the only real answer. In This Episode The origins and evolution of Sister HolidayWriting the latest novel, Divine RuinBlending crime fiction with themes of faith, addiction, and redemptionBuilding momentum after a breakout debutThe realities of sustaining a writing careerMargot’s darkest hour as a writerThe book that saved her lifeAbout Margot Douaihy Margot Douaihy is the author of the Sister Holiday mystery series, including Scorched Grace, Blessed Water, and Divine Ruin. Scorched Grace was widely acclaimed on release and was shortlisted for the LA Times Book Prize in the Mystery/Thriller category. Margot’s work has also been nominated for a number of other crime writing awards and praised for its distinctive blend of literary style, noir atmosphere, and dark humour. Originally from Scranton, Pennsylvania, Margot now lives in Massachusetts where she is an Associate Professor of Creative Writing at Emerson College. Alongside her crime fiction, she has also published poetry and literary fiction. Find Out More Margot Douaihy Website: https://www.margotdouaihy.com Support the Podcast If you enjoy the show, please consider: Leaving a review wherever you listenSharing the episode with a fellow writerChecking out Wayne’s self-publishing support packages at: https://wkwproductions.co.uk/selfpublishing

    59 min

  8. Feb 18

    From Rejection to Sunday Times Bestseller – Lesley Kara on Craft and Persistence

    This week on The Write Place Podcast, I’m joined by bestselling psychological thriller author Lesley Kara, whose debut novel The Rumour became a Sunday Times bestseller and was later adapted for television. We talk about her latest novel, Troublemaker, a tense psychological thriller set in Tunbridge Wells, and explore how grief, vulnerability and doubt shape both her characters and her storytelling. Lesley shares: The real-life influences behind TroublemakerWhy short chapters matter in suspense fictionWhat it was really like seeing The Rumour adapted for TVThe business realities of commercial publishingWriting her debut at 55 and why it’s never too lateHow social media became a creative outlet rather than a choreIt’s a practical, honest conversation about craft, resilience and staying visible in a competitive market. About Lesley Kara Lesley Kara is the Sunday Times bestselling author of multiple psychological thrillers including The Rumour, Who Did You Tell?, The Other Tenant and her latest novel Troublemaker. Her debut, The Rumour, was a breakout success and has since been adapted for television. Lesley lives in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, and began her publishing career in her mid-fifties after years of writing and perseverance. Topics Covered Writing lean prose in psychological suspenseStructuring novels using three-act structureManaging pressure after a commercial breakthroughAdapting novels for screenBalancing creativity with the business of publishingBuilding community and reach through InstagramLate-start writing careersLinks 🌐 Lesley Kara Website: https://www.lesleykara.com 📸 Instagram: @lesleykarawriter 📖 Troublemaker – Available now in bookshops and online If You Enjoyed This Episode Subscribe wherever you get your podcastsLeave a rating and reviewShare the episode with a fellow writerWork With Me If you’re writing your own novel and want professional support with structure, editing or publishing, take a look at my self-publishing packages and mentoring options: 👉 https://wkwproductions.co.uk/selfpublishing

    1h 4m
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5
out of 5
15 Ratings

About

Joined Up Writing is now The Write Place! A new name but the same great content - hundreds of interviews with writers giving the stories behind their books and paths to publication. Packed with advice, inspiration and tips and hosted by crime writer, producer and writing coach, Wayne Kelly, The Write Place is a regular podcast for writers and book lovers. Tuesdays on the Web, iTunes, Android and Spotify.

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