From the Lighthouse

Revelation Beach - An Interview with Susan Francis

Join Michelle as she discusses Susan Francis's new novel Revelation Beach. The novel unflinchingly searches for answers to the brutal murders of the journalists known as the Balibo Five; its publication date coincides with the 50th Anniversary of their deaths. Revelation Beach is Susan Francis's second book. Her first, The Love that Remains was a Varuna PIP finalist.

Trigger warning: This podcast discusses a violent period of history, the Indonesian invasion of Timor Leste, and includes references to state-condoned torture and rape.

The Bright Sword: An Interview with Lev Grossman

Stephanie Russo talks to the bestselling novelist Lev Grossman about his 2024 novel The Bright Sword, a retelling of the Arthurian legends after the death of King Arthur.

Chloe Adams' The Occupation Book Launch

For this episode, Michelle is thrilled to interview the 2024 Penguin Literary Prize winner and recent Macquarie University Master of Creative Writing graduate on her fantastic new novel, The Occupation. This recording is part of Chloe's book launch event held at Macquarie University on 5th August 2025. 

Lost Origins: An Interview with Chris Kulp

Join Michelle as she talks with science fiction author Dr Chris Kulp about his latest novel Lost Origins: Book 1 The Majestic Chronicles, a rollicking space opera with heart and AI. Chris is a professor of physics at the University of Lycoming and the 2022 winner of the Mike Resnick Memorial Award for Best Science Fiction Short Story by a New Author. His fiction has appeared in Galaxy's Edge magazine. He has also co-authored nearly 30 scientific articles and one textbook. 

The Master of Alternate History: An Interview with Harry Turtledove

This week, Stephanie interviews the prolific novelist Harry Turtledove, known as the Master of Alternate History. They discuss alternate history as a genre, how to do historical research when you're writing alternative history, and why alternative histories are so relevant right now.

Old West Romance: An Interview with Amy Matthews

Join Michelle as she talks Romance and writing with award-winning author and academic at Flinders University, Amy Matthews. Amy also writes as Amy T. Matthews and hosts two podcasts Word Docs and Love on Campus. As Amy Barry, she is also the author of the beloved Old West Romance series, The McBrides of Montana.

Always Will Be: An Interview with Mykaela Saunders

Join us today for a live recording of Dr Mykaela Saunders' Always Will Be Book Launch. Mykaela discussed her prize-winning book with Michelle, and the event was held at the Writers and Readers Lounge, Macquarie University, Wallumatta, Dharug Country. 

Friendship as Contest: Interview with Dr Neil Durrant on Nietzsche and Friendship

This week, Stephanie, Michelle and Jimmy are joined by Faculty Executive Director, Dr Neil Durrant to discuss his new book, Nietzsche's Renewal of Ancient Ethics, which explores the importance of contest in friendships. 

MQ PACE: Michelle Council interviews Clémence Michallon about The Quiet Tenant

As part of this year's MQ PACE project, Michelle Council interviews journalist and best-selling author, Clémence Michallon, about her novel, The Quiet Tenant.

Interview with Dr Adrian Renzo and Dr Liz Guiffre on the Princess of Pop - Kylie Minogue

This week, Stephanie is joined by Dr Adrian Renzo of Macquarie University and Dr Liz Guiffre of UTS to discuss their new book Kylie, on Kylie Minogue's self-titled debut album, which was recently released by Bloomsbury's 33 and 1/3 series.