The Secret Library Podcast
The Secret Library Podcast

The Secret Library Podcast

Caroline Donahue

Overview
Episodes

Details

Most people believe that books are created in cabins all alone, where authors pound away on some manner of keyboard. Then they hand this masterpiece off to a publisher and it feels very much like it goes down a tube and comes out the other side as a book. By speaking to authors and other book lovers, I'm diving into the mystery that is the book world today.

www.book-alchemy.com

Recent Episodes

Scrumptious Murder with Orlando Murrin
MAY 8, 2025
Scrumptious Murder with Orlando Murrin
<p>*This podcast is made possible through the generous support of Book Alchemy’s paid membership. To support the show, please consider becoming at member at <a target="_blank" href="https://www.secretlibrarypodcast.com">secretlibrarypodcast.com</a></p><p>From Chef to Sleuth</p><p>In this delicious episode, my guest is Orlando Murrin, a former high-profile food writer who transitioned into the world of mystery writing. After sharing his foundation in food writing, Orlando reveals the pivotal moment when a friend's book deal ignited his own passion for writing mysteries. I learned so much from Orlando, as we discussed his writing process, the creation of his protagonist Paul, editing challenges, and the importance of physical wellness for writers. We also touch on his inspirations, future book ideas, and invaluable advice for aspiring writers. Plus, as you’ll hear, there were multiple laugh-out-lound moments in this one. A must-listen!</p><p><strong>Chapters:</strong></p><p>01:46 From Food Writer to Mystery Novelist03:48 The Turning Point: A Friend's Success06:08 Crafting the Mystery: Character and Plot12:13 Writing Techniques and Challenges17:53 Life Lessons and Writing Advice21:49 Paul's Adventures and Future Plans24:34 The Joy of Imaginative Writing25:43 Character Development and Reader Reactions27:55 Setting and Scene Crafting30:42 The Writing Process and Plotting41:29 Physical and Mental Wellness for Writers46:29 Conclusion and Future Projects</p><p><strong>About Orlando:</strong></p><p>After being flung into the culinary limelight as a semi-finalist on Masterchef, Orlando Murrin edited Woman and Home, BBC Good Food and founded Olive magazine; then he switched track to become a chef-hotelier in SW France and Somerset.</p><p>He has written six cookbooks and received an Outstanding Achievement Award from the Guild of Food Writers, its highest accolade. A popular guest on TV and radio, and at food and literary festivals, he is also a regular podcaster and podcast host.</p><p>From his grandfather, a Met detective who rose to become a crack MI5 interrogator, he inherited a fascination with crime and mystery. He lives in domestic bliss in Exeter, Devon, and has written two culinary crime novels: <em>Knife Skills For Beginners</em> (shortlisted for the McDermid Debut and Crime Fiction Lover Debut Awards) and <em>Murder Below Deck.</em></p> <br/><br/>This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit <a href="https://www.book-alchemy.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&#38;utm_campaign=CTA_2">www.book-alchemy.com/subscribe</a>
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47 MIN
From Cooking to Cold Water with Anna Brones
APR 24, 2025
From Cooking to Cold Water with Anna Brones
<p>*This podcast is made possible through the generous support of Book Alchemy’s paid membership. To support the show, please consider becoming at member at <a target="_blank" href="https://www.secretlibrarypodcast.com">secretlibrarypodcast.com</a></p><p><strong>Diving into the Cold</strong></p><p>In this episode of the Secret Library Podcast, I speak with Anna Brones from the middle of her current book writing adventure. Anna shares her experiences working on her forthcoming book about cold water practices and communities, inspired by her own cold water swimming routine. We look at the shift in her creative process as she takes on a research-heavy nonfiction book, which is a new direction after her previous titles. She also shares historical and cultural context for cold water immersion. We get into the challenges of balancing different types of creative work and the importance of celebrating small victories along the way. Join us for a fascinating conversation about the intersections of art, writing, and the natural world.</p><p><strong>Chapters:</strong></p><p>01:40 Anna's Journey: From Cookbooks to Cold Water03:45 The Concept of Cold: Exploring the New Book04:32 Cold Water Practice: A Personal Journey05:33 Building a Cold Water Community08:41 The Writing Process: Challenges and Insights10:51 Travel and Research: Immersing in Cold Cultures15:19 The Creative Process: Embracing the Struggle19:03 Writing Gnomes: The Magic Behind the Words21:20 The Unknowable Element of Creativity22:25 Visual Art vs. Writing: A Creative Comparison23:54 Balancing Passion and Relaxation26:47 Victorian Ladies and Cold Water Cures34:11 The Fluidity of Creative Processes41:18 Celebrating the Creative Journey</p><p><strong>About Anna:</strong></p><p>Anna is a writer, artist, and educator based in the Pacific Northwest. She works as a papercut artist, hand cutting illustrations from single pieces of paper, which have been used everywhere from books to wine labels to public art installations. Passionate about sharing creativity with others, she regularly teaches workshops, both in person and virtually. She is also the author of several books including <em>Fika: The Art of the Swedish Coffee Break</em>, <em>Live Lagom: Balanced Living the Swedish Way</em>, and <em>Best Served Wild: Real Food for Real Adventures</em>. She contributes to a variety of digital and print publications and is currently at work on her forthcoming book <em>Cold: Lessons of Place, Presence, and Practice</em> (2026)</p><p></p> <br/><br/>This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit <a href="https://www.book-alchemy.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&#38;utm_campaign=CTA_2">www.book-alchemy.com/subscribe</a>
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44 MIN
 The Novel Journey with Emma Gannon
APR 10, 2025
The Novel Journey with Emma Gannon
<p>*This podcast is made possible through the generous support of Book Alchemy’s paid membership. To support the show, please consider upgrading your subscription at <a target="_blank" href="https://www.secretlibrarypodcast.com">secretlibrarypodcast.com</a></p><p>Self-Discovery Through Fiction</p><p>In this episode, Emma Gannon and I explore the nuances of writing fiction versus non-fiction, the significance of intergenerational friendships, and the representation of women in literature, particularly through the lens of the aunt figure. We delve into the themes of self-discovery, chosen family, and the evolution of confidence as women navigate different life stages. The discussion highlights the importance of storytelling in providing alternative narratives and the impact of personal experiences on character development. Emma and I look at the complexities of independence within relationships, the role of friends in self-discovery, and the challenges of the creative process. We share the transformative power of writing in our own lives, sharing the personal growth that comes from completing a novel. Emma talks about her journey of writing her latest book and hints at her upcoming non-fiction project about creativity, emphasizing the importance of community and self-reflection in the creative journey. This is a must listen, and will make you even more excited to read her latest novel, <em>Table for One.</em></p><p></p><p><strong>Chapters:</strong></p><p>00:10 Meet Emma Gannon: Bestselling Author00:27 Discussing Emma's New Novel: Table for One00:35 Fiction vs. Non-Fiction Writing01:42 Emma's Book Tour and Public Speaking02:51 Exploring Themes in Table for One03:07 Character Development and Inspirations04:40 Generational Perspectives in the Novel11:53 The Role of Aunts in Literature19:53 The Journey of Self-Discovery21:50 Exploring Willow's Relationship Dynamics23:00 Balancing Independence and Partnership26:05 The Role of Penn in Willow's Life28:42 The Struggles and Rewards of Writing31:17 The Journey of Writing a Novel37:05 Future Projects and Creativity</p><p><strong>About Emma:</strong></p><p>Emma Gannon is the Sunday Times bestselling author of 8 books, including <em>Olive</em>, her debut novel, which was nominated for the Dublin Literary Award. Her second novel <em>Table For One </em>publishes in April 2025 with Harper Collins. She runs the popular newsletter <em>The Hyphen</em> and was one of the first in the UK to reach thousands of paid subscriptions on Substack.</p><p><strong>Connect with Emma Gannon:</strong></p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://smarturl.it/TableForOneHB">Get your copy of Table for One</a></p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://substack.com/@emmagannon">The Hyphen on Substack</a></p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.instagram.com/emmagannonuk">Instagram</a></p><p><strong>Work with Caroline:</strong></p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.carolinedonahue.com/individual-coaching">Work with Caroline 1:1</a></p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.carolinedonahue.com/your-writing-year-sessions">Join the waitlist for the next Your Writing Year Intensive</a></p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.carolinedonahue.com/individual-courses">Learn more about writing courses</a></p> <br/><br/>This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit <a href="https://www.book-alchemy.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&#38;utm_campaign=CTA_2">www.book-alchemy.com/subscribe</a>
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39 MIN
Tiny Experiments in Writing with Anne-Laure Le Cunff
MAR 13, 2025
Tiny Experiments in Writing with Anne-Laure Le Cunff
<p>*This podcast is made possible through the generous support of Book Alchemy’s paid membership. To support the show, please consider upgrading your subscription at <a target="_blank" href="https://www.secretlibrarypodcast.com">secretlibrarypodcast.com</a></p><p>The Scientific Method Meets Writing</p><p>In this conversation, Anne-Laure Le Cunff and I discuss the principles behind her book, <em>Tiny Experiments</em>, exploring how small, manageable experiments can transform the writing process. We explore the importance of curiosity, community, and redefining success in creative endeavors. The discussion emphasizes the value of learning in public, the role of experimentation in writing, and how to embrace the creative process without the pressure of perfection. These concepts have profoundly impacted my writing life, and I know they’ll transform yours, too.</p><p><strong>Chapters:</strong></p><p>00:08 Meet Anne-Laure Le Cunff: Neuroscientist and Author01:10 The Birth of Tiny Experiments01:39 The 100 Articles Experiment02:45 Balancing Creativity and Rest04:11 From Newsletter to Book: The Journey07:26 Writing as an Experiment26:41 The Role of Curiosity in Creativity29:02 Procrastination and Productivity33:57 Reflections on Writing and Support38:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts</p><p><strong>About Anne-Laure:</strong></p><p>Anne-Laure Le Cunff is an award-winning neuroscientist and entrepreneur. She is the founder of Ness Labs, where her weekly newsletter is read by more than 100,000 curious minds. Her research at King’s College London focuses on the psychology and neuroscience of lifelong learning, curiosity, and adaptability. Her book, <em>Tiny Experiments</em>, is a transformative guide for living a more experimental life, turning uncertainty into curiosity, and carving a path of self-discovery. Previously, she worked at Google as an executive on digital health projects. Her work has been featured in Rolling Stone, Forbes, Financial Times, WIRED, and more.</p><p><strong>Connect with Anne-Laure:</strong></p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://tinyexperiments.org/">Get a copy of Tiny Experiments</a></p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://nesslabs.com/">Ness Labs</a></p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://instagram.com/neuranne">Instagram</a></p><p><strong>Work with Caroline:</strong></p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://www.carolinedonahue.com/individual-coaching">Work with Caroline 1:1</a></p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://www.carolinedonahue.com/your-writing-year-sessions">Join the waitlist for the next Your Writing Year Intensive</a></p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://www.carolinedonahue.com/individual-courses">Learn more about writing courses</a></p> <br/><br/>This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit <a href="https://www.book-alchemy.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&#38;utm_campaign=CTA_2">www.book-alchemy.com/subscribe</a>
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39 MIN
Is a Good Story Worth Paying for? with JP Watson
FEB 27, 2025
Is a Good Story Worth Paying for? with JP Watson
<p>*This podcast is made possible by the generous support of Book Alchemy’s paid membership. To support the show, please consider upgrading your subscription.</p><p>The Pound Project</p><p>In this episode, I speak with JP Watson, a writer from Birmingham, UK, and the founder of The Pound Project. This initiative has published and sold thousands of books worldwide. JP shares how his frustration with the publishing industry's limitations led him to create a unique publishing model based on collaboration and sustainability. We discuss the creative and business aspects of crowdfunding and the importance of maintaining creative integrity. JP also reflects on the democratizing power of the internet, the potential impact of AI on the creative industry, and the future of publishing. He emphasizes the need for a symbiotic relationship between big publishing houses and independent models, greater responsibility in social media use, and the importance of encouraging reading among young people. JP also hints at exciting new projects, including a subscription service and a handwritten writing initiative. This episode highlights JP's journey from disappointed writer to entrepreneurial publisher, offering inspiration and practical insights for writers and readers alike.</p><p><strong>Chapters:</strong></p><p>00:00 Introduction to the Secret Library Podcast 00:21 Meet J.P. Watson and The Pound Project 01:36 The Origin Story of The Pound Project 03:48 Crowdfunding and Publishing Model 06:09 Challenges and Successes in Publishing 10:12 Sustainability and Design in Publishing 16:36 Entrepreneurial Spirit in Writing 25:17 The Future of Publishing and AI 33:27 Encouraging Reading and Writing 42:32 Conclusion and Final Thoughts</p><p>Mentioned:</p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://uk.linkedin.com/company/tuckey-print-ltd">Tuckey Print</a>, Birmingham</p><p>* Enshittification, coined by former SLP guest Cory Doctorow <a target="_blank" href="https://pluralistic.net/2023/01/21/potemkin-ai/#hey-guys">in this article.</a></p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://persephonebooks.co.uk/">Persephone Books</a></p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://www.thebookseller.com/events/futurebook-conference">The Futurebook Conference</a>, run by The Bookseller</p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://www.poundproject.co.uk/daisy-buchanan"><em>Burn Before Reading,</em></a><em> </em>Daisy Buchanan</p><p></p><p>Related SLP Episodes:</p><p><strong>About JP:</strong></p><p>JP Watson is a writer from Birmingham UK who founded The Pound Project, which has sold thousands of books to more than 100+ countries worldwide.</p><p><strong>Connect with JP:</strong></p><p>* Get the <a target="_blank" href="http://eepurl.com/dwwfVT">latest news from The Pound Project</a></p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://www.instagram.com/_pound_project/">Instagram: @_pound_project</a></p><p>* <strong>March 8th:</strong> The Pound Project is hosting a live event with activist and author Gina Martin. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.poundproject.co.uk/shop/to-hate-and-love-men-live">Get tickets here,</a> which include her e-book <em>To Hate and Love Men</em>.</p><p><strong>Work with Caroline:</strong></p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://www.carolinedonahue.com/individual-coaching">Work with Caroline 1:1</a></p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://www.carolinedonahue.com/your-writing-year-sessions">Join the waitlist for the next Your Writing Year Intensive</a></p><p>* <a target="_blank" href="https://www.carolinedonahue.com/individual-courses">Learn more about writing courses</a></p> <br/><br/>This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit <a href="https://www.book-alchemy.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&#38;utm_campaign=CTA_2">www.book-alchemy.com/subscribe</a>
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43 MIN