We often talk about persistence in the journey of an aspiring author, and for podcaster Sam Elliott, his 20 years of working towards publication had many twists and turns. Now finally with his debut crime/thriller novel Haze under his belt, in this episode Sam shares the turning points that got him to this stage – including completing a particular AWC course – and the inspiration for telling this particular story. He also shares advice for other aspiring writers and the importance of a writing community.
You can listen to the episode below, on , on Spotify, or add the podcast RSS feed manually to your favourite podcast app.
Links mentioned in this episode
- WIN The Violin Maker’s Secret by Evie Woods
- Buy So You Want to be a Writer – the book!
- Facebook group for So You Want to be a Writer
Writer in residence: Sam Elliott
Sam Elliott is a Sydney-based author and interviewer. He is the founder and host of The Write Way podcast, a program that has given a platform to established and emerging literary and creative voices. In addition to his interview work, Sam has devoted himself to crafting compelling long-form narratives. Haze, his debut novel about Constable Dahlia Turner's race to save an abducted boy while confronting her past as a cult member, publishes in March 2026 with Pan Macmillan. A sequel, Deepfake, will follow.
You can also meet Sam on our blog.
Follow Sam on Instagram.
Follow Pan Macmillan Australia on Instagram and Twitter.
This podcast is brought to you by the Australian Writers' Centre and our course Dare to Dream.
Find out more about your host, Valerie Khoo (@valeriekhoo on Twitter and @valeriekhoo on Instagram).
