Award winning 'Young Adult' author Kelly McCaughrain is still spinning after being shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal Awards for her YA novel ‘Little Bang’. She joins Jillian and Peter to share her writing journey and how important she feels it is for realistic stories of teenage relationships to be portrayed in novels to educate and inform the readers as well as to entertain. Music by Shane M.

Join Peter and Jillian as they chat about the Libraries NI Book of the Month for April. Donal Ryan’s Heart, be at Peace is an award winning novel based around a small town in rural Ireland. Told in polyphonic voices we follow the colourful, intertwined and at times messy lives of the towns people through trials and tribulations culminating in an explosive and dramatic conclusion. No spoilers here though – pick up a copy for yourself from your local NI library or listen online through Libby or BorrowBox, free with Libraries NI. Music by Shane M.

Belfast author Sharon Dempsey joins Jillian and Peter in the build up to the release of her new standalone novel ‘After the Party’ after the success of her crime thrillers based in Belfast. They discuss exploring class and gender in crime fiction as well as the challenges of basing novels in your hometown. Music by Shane M.

In preparation for the Sci-Fi Convention in Belfast over the Easter Weekend Jillan and Conor have a chat with local Sci-Fi and Fantasy author Jo Zebedee discussing the crossover between the two genres and the growth in popularity of both in recent times. Music by Shane M

Do celebrity authors help get children reading? Library Assistant Beverley Dempsey from Ballyclare Library joins Jillian and Pete to discuss the impact of famous names on children’s fiction. From reluctant readers to Junior Reading Groups, Beverley shares her insights on how star-studded book releases shape young readers’ choices—and whether they inspire a lifelong love of books. Music by Shane M

To mark World Poetry Day, Jillian and Pete sit down with award-winning poet Gail McConnell for a powerful discussion about the personal experiences that shape her work. From childhood trauma to parenthood, Gail reflects on how life influences poetry and shares her thoughts on Belfast’s growing poetry scene. Plus, don’t miss a special reading of her poem Untitled / Villanelle. Music by Shane M

Local author Brian McGilloway joins Jillian and Pete to talk about his writing journey, from his early works to his latest projects. He also gives an exclusive insight into his upcoming standalone novel, The One You Least Expect, set for publication in May 2025. Tune in for a fascinating chat about crime fiction, storytelling, and what’s next for this acclaimed author. Music by Shane M

In this episode, Jillian and Pete chat with the one and only Duke Special, a musician known for his distinctive style and genre-defying performances. He talks about the inspirations behind his work, from his love of home to the joys of deep research, and how embracing the unexpected has shaped his artistic journey. Expect fascinating insights, a touch of musical magic, and plenty of surprises along the way. Music by Shane M