An uplifting new podcast from bestselling author Eleanor Ray for book lovers everywhere. Special guest writers each episode will share insights into their creative process, journey to publication, reading recommendations, and we find joy in what we do.
Piglets, Prayers, and the Power of Romance: Flora Dunn
This week on Ray of Light, I'm joined by author Flora Dunn, who writes warm, feel-good fiction set in the fictional English village of Tillingham. Her latest book, A Gala Ball at Tillingford Hall, follows former supermodel Sahara Seaton-Smith as she rebuilds her life — with a rescued piglet named Muffin, a TV historian co-presenter, and a chance at the happy ending readers have been waiting for.
We talk about building a fictional world that feels real, why romance is spiritual solace rather than "flimflam," the role of faith and forgiveness in her stories, and the Audible deal that changed her writing life. Plus: self-publishing freedom, gardening happiness, writing advice for new novelists, and what's next from Tillingford Hall.
📖 Flora Dunn's latest book — A Gala Ball at Tillingford Hall — is out on October 15th.
Follow Eleanor Ray: Instagram: @eleanorraybooks TikTok: @eleanorraybooks
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29 Sept 2026
From Film to Fiction: Jack Jewers on Reimagining Samuel Pepys
Welcome back to Ray of Light! Season 3 kicks off with historical fiction author Jack Jewers, a BAFTA-nominated filmmaker turned novelist, whose latest book Seething Lane imagines Samuel Pepys as a reluctant investigator solving a brutal double murder in the freezing winter of 1670s Restoration London.
31 Mar 2026
Why Plot Comes Last (and Other Cozy Crime Secrets) with Fliss Chester
What if plot was the last thing on a mystery writer's mind? In this episode of Ray of Light, Eleanor Ray sits down with cozy crime author Fliss Chester to talk about her brand new series set in Cornwall, beginning with Murder in a Cornish Tea Shop — out now!
Fliss shares how setting and characters come before plot, why an eye for interior design is the perfect skill for a fictional detective, and the real-life cat behind her beloved character Burnt Toast (plus her plan to get a ginger kitten called Crumpet if the books do well enough).
They also chat about what makes cozy crime so irresistible, Fliss's love of golden age mysteries, the joy of new beginnings, and what's coming next — including Murder in a Cornish Book Club, due out in June.
If you love charming seaside settings, 1920s glamour, and just the occasional murder, this one's for you.
Books mentioned: 📚 Murder in a Cornish Tea Shop — Fliss Chester (out now) 📚 Murder in a Cornish Book Club — Fliss Chester (June 2025) 📚 See the Stars — Eleanor Ray 📚 Everything is Beautiful — Eleanor Ray
Find Eleanor: 🌐 www.eleanorraybooks.com 📱 @eleanorraybooks
Ray of Light — a podcast about reading, writing, and happiness. Like and subscribe for more!
#CozyCrime #CozyMystery #MurderInACornishTeaShop #FlissChester #EleanorRay #RayOfLightPodcast #AuthorInterview #WritingCommunity #AspiringAuthor #AmWriting #WritingTips #WritingProcess #BookPodcast
17 Mar 2026
What Makes an Editor Say Yes — with Phoebe Morgan
What does it really take to get a top editor's attention — and keep it past the first page? Phoebe Morgan is a fiction publisher at Simon & Schuster and the author of five psychological thrillers, so she knows what it's like on both sides of the submission email.
In this episode, Phoebe pulls back the curtain on what happens inside acquisition meetings, why your book's hook matters more than you think, and what she's really looking for in those crucial first 20 pages. She also talks about the emotional reality of receiving edits as a writer, her Substack The Honest Editor, and her advice for aspiring authors navigating the publishing world.
Whether you're writing your first novel or trying to crack the code of commercial fiction, this conversation is packed with honest, practical insight from someone who lives and breathes both sides of the industry.
ABOUT THE GUEST
Phoebe Morgan is a fiction publisher at Simon & Schuster and the author of The Doll's House, The Girl Next Door, The Wild Girls, and The Trip. Find her Substack: The Honest Editor.
ABOUT THE HOST
Eleanor Ray writes uplifting book club fiction about hope, connection, and the unexpected turns life can take. Her most recent novel, See the Stars, is out now in paperback. Find out more at www.eleanorraybooks.com and follow @EleanorRayBooks on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.
#WritingAdvice #HowToGetPublished #PublishingIndustry #AmWriting #AspiringAuthor #WritingCommunity #RayOfLightPodcast
3 Mar 2026
All Her Fault Author Andrea Mara on Crime Writing, TV Adaptation & the Stories We Tell About Mothers
Bestselling crime novelist Andrea Mara joins Ray of Light to discuss her novel All Her Fault, its TV adaptation starring Sarah Snook and Dakota Fanning, and writing stories about motherhood's deepest fears. We talk about the casting moment that made her scream, how her books grow with her children, emotional labor in parenting, and keeping emotional truth at the heart of page-turning thrillers. A must-listen for writers, parents, and anyone who loves stories about real human dynamics.
17 Feb 2026
From Crime to Compassion: Crafting a Story of Forgiveness with Kristin Koval
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
3 Feb 2026
Ruth Ware: From Cabin 10 to Suite 11 and the Art of the Thriller
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.
20 Jan 2026
Two Love Stories and 30 Murders: Inside the Mind of Thriller Writer Sam Holland
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
16 Dec 2025
Wintery Bookshop Romance: A Christmas Special Conversation
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: @eleanorraybooksFind more at: www.eleanorraybooks.com
Listen now and let the festive bookish vibes begin!
2 Dec 2025
Christmas Crime and Cozy Light: An Interview with Chris Frost
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!
18 Nov 2025
Heidi Swain on Uplifting Fiction: Hope, Healing, and Happy Endings
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.
4 Nov 2025
Finding Light in Dark Stories: A Conversation with Heather Critchlow
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.
21 Oct 2025
Queens of History: Annie Garthwaite on Rewriting the War of the Roses
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.
7 Oct 2025
From Heartbreak to Bestseller: Clare Leslie Hall on Writing, Resilience, and Broken Country
In this episode of Ray of Light, host Eleanor Ray welcomes bestselling author Clare Leslie Hall to discuss her acclaimed novel "Broken Country." Clare shares the inspiration behind her gripping story of love, loss, and a murder trial, revealing how personal experiences and perseverance shaped her writing journey.
The conversation delves into the challenges of breaking into publishing, the importance of community and resilience, and the joy found in both the creative process and reader connections. Clare also offers heartfelt advice for aspiring writers and gives a sneak peek into her upcoming projects.
Tune in for an inspiring, honest, and uplifting conversation about books, writing, and finding happiness along the way.
23 Sept 2025
From Whimsy to Worldwide: TE Kinsey on Cozy Crimes, Writing Joy, and the Power of Persistence
Bestselling author TE Kinsey joins Eleanor Ray for a delightful deep dive into the world of historical cozy crime fiction, the art of writing for joy, and the serendipitous journey from self-publishing to millions of readers. Discover the origins of Lady Hardcastle, the secrets behind crafting memorable characters, and why embracing whimsy (and a bit of luck) can lead to literary success. Tim shares candid insights on research, balancing writing with life, and finding happiness both on and off the page—including the unexpected pleasures of making music. Whether you’re an aspiring writer, a devoted reader, or simply in need of a little inspiration, this episode is packed with warmth, wisdom, and plenty of laughs.
Subscribe for more conversations about writing, reading, and happiness!
9 Sept 2025
Jackie Kabler on thrillers, finding joy in writing, and her new novel, The Revenge Plot
Kick off the very first full episode of the Ray of Light podcast as host Eleanor Ray welcomes bestselling author Jackie Kabler. In this inspiring and candid conversation, Jackie shares her journey from TV journalism to writing psychological thrillers, discusses her latest novel "The Revenge Plot," and opens up about the joys and challenges of the writing life.
The episode explores Jackie's creative process, her love of ultra-marathon running, the importance of connecting with readers, and practical advice for aspiring authors. Whether you're a fan of crime fiction, a writer, or simply looking for uplifting stories about following your passion, this episode is for you.
23 Jun 2025
Introduction to Ray of Light
Host Eleanor Ray introduces her new podcast series, exploring reading, writing, and happiness through conversations with authors about their inspirations and creative processes.
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