The Book Deal

The Publishing Deal: Publisher, Tom Langshaw, on the strongest elements in a fiction manuscript, what to include in your submission pitch, and industry trends

In this episode of The Book Deal podcast, host Natasha Rai interviews Tom Langshaw, publisher at Pantera Press. Tom discusses his journey from working at Penguin Random House to his current role, explaining the intricacies of the publishing process from manuscript acquisition to promotion. He shares insights on what makes a manuscript stand out, the importance of voice and character in fiction, and the significance of timing and market trends in publishing decisions. Tom also emphasizes the value of respectful and collaborative relationships with authors and offers advice for emerging writers on perfecting their pitches. Additionally, Tom highlights concerns about the consolidation in the publishing industry and the importance of supporting independent publishers. 00:00 Welcome to The Book Deal Podcast 00:56 Meet Tom Langshaw: Publisher at Pantera Press 01:57 A Day in the Life of a Publisher 04:45 The Art of Manuscript Selection 08:31 From Editorial Assistant to Publisher 12:17 Navigating the Publishing Industry 16:06 The Role of Sales and Trends in Publishing 21:19 Transitioning to Pantera Press 32:16 Building Relationships in Publishing 33:21 Connecting with Booksellers 34:34 Reading for Work vs. Pleasure 36:03 Editing Tips for Writers 38:48 Common Mistakes in Pitching 45:43 Trends in the Publishing Industry 48:32 Advice for Emerging Writers 56:39 Exciting Upcoming Books 01:00:13 Final Thoughts and Reflections Join our Patreon community [https://www.patreon.com/thebookdealpodcast/] for less than the cost of a coffee per month and support the pod! Your contribution will go to directly paying our sound producer, Brogan, and to help us bring you the conversations with industry professionals you love. Follow The Book Deal podcast on Instagram The Book Deal podcast (@the_book_deal_podcast) • Instagram photos and videos [https://www.instagram.com/the_book_deal_podcast/] You can find out more about Tina, Madeleine and Natasha and follow their journeys here: Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videos [https://www.instagram.com/td_strachan/] Tina Strachan children's book author [https://www.tinastrachan.com/about-tina-strachan-childrens-book-author] Madeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videos [https://www.instagram.com/madeleineclearywrites/] Madeleine Cleary | Author [https://www.madeleinecleary.com.au/] Natasha Rai (@raiwriting) • Instagram photos and videos [https://www.instagram.com/raiwriting/] Natasha Rai | Author | Mentor [https://www.raiwriting.com.au/] If you want to stay in the know, sign up to Madeleine, Tina and Natasha's newsletters for the latest news first. Madeleine: Subscribe here... [https://madeleinecleary.substack.com/?r=5df0no&utm_campaign=pub-share-checklist]

Kidlit superstar Kate Foster on managing multi-publications, co writing, celebrating diversity and being a good industry citizen

Host Tina Strachan dives deep into the world of publishing, interviewing international multi-published Kid Lit author Kate Foster. Kate discusses her most recent book, 'Camp Spooky,' co-written with Pip Harry, and shares insights into the co-writing process, the importance of diversity in children's literature, and her dedication to promoting awareness through initiatives like the Danz Awards and the Author Pen Pals Program. This episode is a treasure trove of advice, experiences, and behind-the-scenes details for aspiring authors at every stage of their writing journey. 00:00 Welcome to the Book Deal Podcast 00:56 Special Christmas Episode Announcement 02:25 Interview with Kid Lit Superstar Kate Foster 09:18 The Joys and Challenges of Co-Writing 14:22 Promoting Neurodiversity in Children's Books 16:44 The Dans Awards: Celebrating Diversity in Literature 24:03 Author Pen Pal Program 24:43 The Magic of Author Visits 25:15 Launching the Free Author Pen Pals Program 26:36 Personal Experiences with Author Pen Pals 27:40 The Importance of Literacy and Storytelling 29:39 How to Get Involved with Author Pen Pals 30:39 Being a Good Industry Citizen 31:16 Navigating Rejection and Building Community 34:41 Top Tips for Aspiring Authors 42:53 Managing Time and Staying Motivated 46:19 Looking Forward to the Future Join our Patreon community [https://www.patreon.com/thebookdealpodcast/] for less than the cost of a coffee per month and support the pod! Your contribution will go to directly paying our sound producer, Brogan, and to help us bring you the conversations with industry professionals you love. Follow The Book Deal podcast on Instagram The Book Deal podcast (@the_book_deal_podcast) • Instagram photos and videos [https://www.instagram.com/the_book_deal_podcast/] You can find out more about Tina, Madeleine and Natasha and follow their journeys here: Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videos [https://www.instagram.com/td_strachan/] Tina Strachan children's book author [https://www.tinastrachan.com/about-tina-strachan-childrens-book-author] Madeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videos [https://www.instagram.com/madeleineclearywrites/] Madeleine Cleary | Author [https://www.madeleinecleary.com.au/] Natasha Rai (@raiwriting) • Instagram photos and videos [https://www.instagram.com/raiwriting/] Natasha Rai | Author | Mentor [https://www.raiwriting.com.au/] If you want to stay in the know, sign up to Madeleine, Tina and Natasha's newsletters for the latest news first. Madeleine: Subscribe here... [https://madeleinecleary.substack.com/?r=5df0no&utm_campaign=pub-share-checklist]

Natasha, Tina and Madeleine on festival preparation, public speaking tips and embarrassing mothers

The Book Deal podcast, hosts Tina Strachan, Madeleine Cleary, and Natasha Rai dive deep into the intricacies of securing book deals, managing writing schedules, and preparing for festivals. The conversation includes insights from experienced authors on pitching to festivals, the balance of self-care, and practical advice to handle writing burnout. They also share humorous and touching personal stories about family support and navigating audience interactions. Special announcements include a live event in Sydney featuring bestselling author Hayley Scrivenor and an exciting book giveaway. Tune in for valuable writing tips, festival prep advice, and much more. Book tickets for Christmas with The Book Deal live episode November 25 2025 at Writing NSW here. [https://writingnsw.org.au/whats-on/events/christmas-with-the-book-deal-podcast/] 00:00 Welcome to the Book Deal Podcast 00:56 Special Christmas Episode Announcement 02:25 Technical Difficulties and Catching Up 02:41 The Importance of Self-Care for Writers 07:37 Upcoming Writing Festival and Tips 09:31 Navigating Festival Invitations and Pitches 19:05 Preparing for Festivals and Public Speaking 25:08 Handling Unexpected Questions 26:51 Coping with Stage Fright 28:51 Funny Mum Stories 35:08 Daily Routines and Time Management 45:26 Final Tips and Wrap-Up Join our Patreon community [https://www.patreon.com/thebookdealpodcast/] for less than the cost of a coffee per month and support the pod! Your contribution will go to directly paying our sound producer, Brogan, and to help us bring you the conversations with industry professionals you love. Follow The Book Deal podcast on Instagram The Book Deal podcast (@the_book_deal_podcast) • Instagram photos and videos [https://www.instagram.com/the_book_deal_podcast/] You can find out more about Tina, Madeleine and Natasha and follow their journeys here: Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videos [https://www.instagram.com/td_strachan/] Tina Strachan children's book author [https://www.tinastrachan.com/about-tina-strachan-childrens-book-author] Madeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videos [https://www.instagram.com/madeleineclearywrites/] Madeleine Cleary | Author [https://www.madeleinecleary.com.au/] Natasha Rai (@raiwriting) • Instagram photos and videos [https://www.instagram.com/raiwriting/] Natasha Rai | Author | Mentor [https://www.raiwriting.com.au/] If you want to stay in the know, sign up to Madeleine, Tina and Natasha's newsletters for the latest news first. Madeleine: Subscribe here... [https://madeleinecleary.substack.com/?r=5df0no&utm_campaign=pub-share-checklist]

Kate Mildenhall on publishing and resilience, publicity tips and what it means to be a good industry citizen

Kate Mildenhall on publishing and resilience, tips for interviewing other writers and what it means to be a good industry citizen Madeleine interviews acclaimed and bestselling author Kate Mildenhall. Kate gives an honest account of her journey to publication, detailing the rejections and the success along the way.  Kate's latest novel, THE HIDING PLACE [https://www.simonandschuster.com.au/books/The-Hiding-Place/Kate-Mildenhall/9781761429057] (November 2025, S&S), described as 'White Lotus meets The Slap, is a razor-sharp literary thriller about what happens when good people make bad decisions. Kate discusses themes like land ownership, the environment, and the evolving dynamics of long-term friendships. Kate offers valuable tips for writers navigating publicity, handling interviews, and maintaining the momentum in their writing careers. This engaging and generous chat is a must-listen for aspiring authors and literary enthusiasts. 00:00 Welcome to the Book Deal Podcast 00:56 Introducing Kate Mildenhall 04:04 Kate's Journey to Becoming an Author 13:37 The Rollercoaster of Publishing 19:26 Navigating Rejection and Finding Success 29:27 Tips for Authors on Publicity and Interviews 34:45 Setting Boundaries in Publicity 37:18 Discussing 'The Hiding Place' 40:02 From Hummingbird to The Hiding Place 41:06 Camping Memories and Inspirations 49:40 The Challenges of Writing Multi-POV 57:29 Themes of Land Ownership and Environmentalism 01:03:50 Future Writing Plans and Dreams 01:07:31 Final Tips for Writers Join our Patreon community [https://www.patreon.com/thebookdealpodcast/] for less than the cost of a coffee per month and support the pod! Your contribution will go to directly paying our sound producer, Brogan, and to help us bring you the conversations with industry professionals you love. Follow The Book Deal podcast on Instagram The Book Deal podcast (@the_book_deal_podcast) • Instagram photos and videos [https://www.instagram.com/the_book_deal_podcast/] You can find out more about Tina, Madeleine and Natasha and follow their journeys here: Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videos [https://www.instagram.com/td_strachan/] Tina Strachan children's book author [https://www.tinastrachan.com/about-tina-strachan-childrens-book-author] Madeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videos [https://www.instagram.com/madeleineclearywrites/] Madeleine Cleary | Author [https://www.madeleinecleary.com.au/] Natasha Rai (@raiwriting) • Instagram photos and videos [https://www.instagram.com/raiwriting/] Natasha Rai | Author | Mentor [https://www.raiwriting.com.au/] If you want to stay in the know, sign up to Madeleine, Tina and Natasha's newsletters for the latest news first. Madeleine: Subscribe here... [https://madeleinecleary.substack.com/?r=5df0no&utm_campaign=pub-share-checklist]

Believing in yourself and the benefits of constant learning with Valerie Khoo, CEO of the Australian Writers Centre

Join our Patreon community [https://www.patreon.com/thebookdealpodcast/] for less than the cost of a coffee per month and support the pod! Your contribution will go to directly paying our sound producer, Brogan, and to help us bring you the conversations with industry professionals you love. Follow The Book Deal podcast on Instagram The Book Deal podcast (@the_book_deal_podcast) • Instagram photos and videos [https://www.instagram.com/the_book_deal_podcast/] You can find out more about Tina, Madeleine and Natasha and follow their journeys here: Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videos [https://www.instagram.com/td_strachan/] Tina Strachan children's book author [https://www.tinastrachan.com/about-tina-strachan-childrens-book-author] Madeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videos [https://www.instagram.com/madeleineclearywrites/] Madeleine Cleary | Author [https://www.madeleinecleary.com.au/] Natasha Rai (@raiwriting) • Instagram photos and videos [https://www.instagram.com/raiwriting/] Natasha Rai | Author | Mentor [https://www.raiwriting.com.au/] If you want to stay in the know, sign up to Madeleine, Tina and Natasha's newsletters for the latest news first. Madeleine: Subscribe here... [https://madeleinecleary.substack.com/?r=5df0no&utm_campaign=pub-share-checklist]