In this episode of Ray of Light, I sit down with debut novelist Kristin Koval to discuss her remarkable first novel—a deeply human story about a sister who murders her brother. Rather than leaning into sensation, Kristin has crafted a beautifully observed exploration of family and forgiveness, guilt and love, unfolding across generations.

We discuss the impossible paradox at the heart of her story: what happens when parents must choose between forgiving the unforgivable or losing both their children? Kristin shares how she put her characters in the most difficult possible position to forgive, but also the easiest—because without forgiveness, they would lose everything.

We also talk about the realities of being a first-time novelist. Kristin offers honest advice about rejection, being ghosted by agents, and receiving countless nos. Her wisdom? Sometimes the most valuable lesson is simply to grow thicker skin.

This is a conversation about moral complexity, the writing life, and the stories that demand to be told.

Connect with Eleanor Ray: Instagram & TikTok: @eleanorraybooks Website: www.eleanorraybooks.com

Topics Discussed:

• Writing about difficult moral terrain
• Family dynamics and forgiveness
• The debut novel experience
• Handling rejection as a writer
• Creating deeply human characters

#RayOfLight #EleanorRay #KristinKoval #AuthorInterview #DebutNovel #LiteraryFiction #WritingCommunity #BookPodcast #Forgiveness #AuthorLife #FirstNovel #ContemporaryFiction #BookLovers #PodcastEpisode

Join Eleanor Ray as she sits down with international bestselling thriller writer Ruth Ware, whose novels have sold over 10 million copies in 40+ languages worldwide.

In this captivating conversation, Ruth discusses her latest novel The Woman in Suite 11, the highly anticipated follow-up to The Woman in Cabin 10 (recently adapted for Netflix starring Keira Knightley). Discover what it was like seeing her characters come to life on screen, and why she decided to return to protagonist Lo Blacklock's story after 10 years.

Learn about Ruth's early career writing for teenagers, her transition to adult fiction with In a Dark, Dark Wood, and the influence of Agatha Christie on her work. Plus, she offers invaluable advice for aspiring authors on self-editing, giving readers reasons to turn the page, and writing with fearlessness.

Whether you're a thriller fan, an aspiring writer, or simply love hearing about the creative process, this episode offers insight, inspiration, and plenty of bookish joy.

Eleanor's latest novel See the Stars is out in paperback this week! For more about Eleanor's books about finding light in the darkness, visit www.eleanorraybooks.com or follow @eleanorraybooks on social media.

What makes someone capable of terrible things? How do you balance darkness with light in crime fiction? And can a book about serial killers actually be a love story?

In the first episode of season two, I sit down with thriller author Sam Holland to explore the psychology behind her chilling characters, the craft of writing disturbing fiction, and why "The Echo Man" is essentially two love stories... with 30+ murders in between.

We dive deep into: ✨ The fascinating psychology of what makes a serial killer ✨ How to weave lightness and humanity into dark fiction ✨ The art of character relationships in extraordinary circumstances ✨ Sam's answer to the ultimate question: "How would you commit the perfect murder?"

Whether you're a thriller reader, aspiring writer, or just fascinated by the darker corners of human behavior, this conversation will captivate you from start to finish.

About Sam Holland: Sam Holland is the author of "The Echo Man," a debut thriller that shocked and enthralled readers with its serial killer copying real-life murderers. Her work explores the darkest aspects of human nature while never losing sight of the humanity in her characters.

Connect with me: 📷 Instagram/Twitter: @eleanorraybooks 🌐 Website: www.eleanorraybooks.com

#RayOfLightPodcast #SamHolland #ThrillerBooks #CrimeFiction #AuthorInterview #TheEchoMan #WritingCommunity #BookPodcast #ThrillerAuthor #DarkFiction #SerialKillers #CrimePsychology #BookLovers #MustListen #PodcastRecommendation

Step into the festive spirit with this special episode of Ray of Light! I’m joined by bestselling contemporary romance author Cressida McLaughlin, whose heartwarming novels have sold over a million copies. We dive into the magic of writing Christmas books (even in the middle of summer!), the power of a strong premise, and the journey from unpublished manuscripts to bestselling success.

Cressida shares her creative rituals—think fairy lights, cinnamon candles, and Michael Bublé on repeat—and offers honest advice for writers battling self-doubt. Whether you’re a book lover, aspiring author, or just looking for some cozy inspiration, this episode is packed with warmth, wisdom, and a sprinkle of Christmas sparkle.

Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share! Connect with me on Instagram, TikTok or Facebook: @eleanorraybooks Find more at: www.eleanorraybooks.com

Listen now and let the festive bookish vibes begin!

In this special Christmas episode of Ray of Light, host Eleanor Ray sits down with Chris McDonald—writing as Chris Frost—to unwrap the secrets behind his chilling festive thriller, "The Christmas Tree Killer." Set against snow-swept landscapes, Chris’s latest novel follows DI Tom Stonem as he hunts a killer who leaves grisly gifts beneath the Christmas tree.

We dive into Chris’s journey from cozy crime to Christmas suspense, the inspiration behind his memorable characters, and how he balances writing with life’s challenges—including a surprise diabetes diagnosis. Chris shares his writing routines, advice for aspiring authors, and what brings him joy both on and off the page. Plus, get a sneak peek at his upcoming projects and festive tips for the holiday season.

Curl up with this episode for a blend of holiday warmth, spine-tingling crime, and creative inspiration.

Connect with Eleanor on social media @eleanorraybooks and visit www.eleanorraybooks.com for more updates, resources, and uplifting fiction. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share if you enjoyed the show!

Bestselling author Heidi Swain joins Eleanor Ray to discuss her new novel "All Wrapped Up," the power of uplifting fiction, and the healing journeys at the heart of her stories. Tune in for inspiration, writing advice, and a celebration of hope and happy endings.

Connect with Eleanor @eleanorraybooks across TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube, or visit www.eleanorraybooks.com.

In this episode of Ray of Light, host Eleanor Ray welcomes Heather Critchlow—author of the McIlvanney Prize-shortlisted Cal Lovett crime series and the gripping dystopian novel, The Tomorrow Project.

Heather shares her journey from aspiring writer to published author, discusses the challenges and joys of writing across genres, and offers invaluable advice for aspiring authors. Together, Eleanor and Heather explore the power of perseverance, the importance of community, and how hope can be found even in the darkest stories.

Whether you love crime fiction, dystopian tales, or uplifting book club reads, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical tips for readers and writers alike.

In this episode of Ray of Light, host Eleanor Ray welcomes acclaimed historical fiction author Annie Garthwaite, known for her novels "Cecily" and "The King's Mother," which reimagine the War of the Roses from the perspective of the women who shaped history.

Annie shares her journey from a lifelong fascination with medieval women to becoming a published author at 55, discussing the challenges and joys of researching and writing authentic historical fiction. The conversation delves into the importance of female perspectives in history, the process of building complex characters, and the impact of reader feedback.

Annie also offers writing advice for aspiring authors and teases her upcoming novel about Isabella, the formidable queen who deposed England’s Edward II.

Tune in for an inspiring discussion about storytelling, resilience, and finding light in dark times.