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In The Good Books with Luke Bateman

What’s your story? Everyone has one — the ones we read and the ones we live.In The Good Books is a new weekly podcast that serves as a community for those who believe in the power of a good story.Each week, host Luke Bateman shares the books that have shaped his world, from timeless classics to buzzy bestsellers. He’ll also sit down with the most fascinating voices in the literary world — from bestselling authors to emerging new talent — as they reveal the inspirations behind their work.This is more than a book club; it's a space to explore how the stories we consume influence the lives we lead.We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at [email protected]. Follow all the action on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast

  1. 27

    Charlotte McConaghy: Finding Ghosts, Skipping School and Using Your Biggest Feelings

    Charlotte McConaghy (Wild Dark Shore, Migrations, Once Were Wolves) is one of Australia's most acclaimed authors; known for her lush prose, fiercely emotional tone and environments so rich you feel instantly transported. And turns out, her process is every bit as wild as what it creates. In this episode, Charlotte tells Luke all about how she practically skipped school homework after starting her first book at fourteen, how she intentionally channels her biggest emotions—from intense sadness and rage to deep fear—into her protagonists so they can fight their way toward healing, peace, and love, and how a wild research trip to a haunted island was the biggest breakthrough of her recent novel.  Don't forget to check out the Good Books Club episode discussing Charlotte's work Migrations! What are your thoughts? Let us know and have your voice notes featured on the podcast:email [email protected]. Stay connected on our socials:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  2. 26

    Book Club: the Grief, Wildness and Hope of 'Migrations' by Charlotte McConaghy

    How far would you go to find hope in a desolate world? Are we all just wild at heart? How can we accept and be loved for who we truly are? These are just some of the questions that arise as you journey with Charlotte McConaghy’s breathtaking climate fiction masterpiece, Migrations (also published as The Last Migration).In this episode, Luke breaks down McConaghy’s lyrical, screenwriting-paced prose while diving headfirst into the story's raw landscape of grief, environmental desolation, and the beautiful, unconditional love that still pervades through it all.  What are your thoughts? Let us know and have your voice notes featured on the podcast: email [email protected]. Stay connected on our socials:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast  Thanks to Hachette - visit www.hachette.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  3. 25

    Why the Collapse of Everything is Our Greatest Chance for Love and Relief, with Sarah Wilson

    What if the collapse of everything we know isn't a catastrophe to fear, but an opportunity for our fullest humanity? This is the idea explored by multi-New York Times and Amazon bestselling author and social philosopher Sarah Wilson in her latest book I Eat the Stars. In this conversation, she explains exactly what complex systems collapse means, the process of writing the book, including speaking to over 200 global thought leaders, why we must continue to create art no matter what, and what radical hope and love truly look like.  Did this conversation spark something for you? Have some thoughts of your own? Share them with Luke - email a voice note to [email protected] Stay connected on our socials:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  4. 24

    Why Naomi Ishiguro Chooses Cozy Fantasy

    Naomi may be the daughter of Nobel Prize winning writer Kazuo Ishiguro, but for her own writing, she is carving a very different and distinctly unique path - particularly in her new book The Rainshadow Orphans. It's one that balances high stakes adventure with writing that feels like a warm coat, that makes our inner children smile, and that tastes like bubble tea. In this chat, Naomi talks about what it was like growing up in a very literary household, her time in a 'book spa' working to find people their perfect book, the power of found families, her love of the fantasy community, and the reasons she chooses to follow joy   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  5. 23

    Books I've Read.... Ranked By Spice 🌶️

    Luke is putting his spice tolerance to the test by ranking nine of the most romantic books he's read by how hot the action really gets. From the safe and tender pages of mainstream rom-coms to the completely unhinged world of monster smut, Luke lets you know which books keep their socks on and which ones bring serious ghost pepper heat. Turn up the AC - and maybe close the door - because things are about to get spicy on In The Good Books. Thanks to our sponsor Wild Secrets. Visit wildsecrets.com.au and use the code GOODBOOKS for a 20% discount. Wild Secrets, Pleasure Delivered.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  6. 22

    Matt Haig: Writing What You Need to Hear

    If you wanted proof of the life-changing power of writing, you need look no further than Matt Haig. It hasn't just helped his countless readers, but first and foremost, it helped him too. In this chat, you'll hear how about his turbulent early life, the similarities his story share with Luke's and how his first book was born of a total breakdown.Matt talks about why simple stories and writing can often be the most powerful, the crucial choices behind his best seller 'The Midnight Library' and how its new companion, 'The Midnight Train' is almost in an argument with it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  7. 21

    Book Club: The Correspondent by Virginia Evans

    We've got mail - and opinions. Luke pens his reply to Virginia Evans modern epistolary masterpiece and smash lit-hit of 2026 'The Correspondent', including why a book composed entirely of correspondence can be more compelling than prose, what it teaches us about making meaning of our lives, the beauty of connecting to others (and ourselves) and why we should all start writing letters again! And if you like The Correspondent, Luke share's an expertly curated list of similar titles thanks to our friends at Hachette. Thanks to Hachette - visit www.hachette.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  8. 20

    Crafting the Chaos of Dungeon Crawler Carl - with author Matt Dinniman and audiobook narrator/producer Jeff Hays

    It's hilarious, it's heart-wrenching, it's hectic. It's one of the most addictive series in modern fiction. And it's one awesome audiobook experience. It's Dungeon Crawler Carl - and in this episode, Luke chats to the masterminds behind it: author Matt Dinniman and audiobook producer, narrator and voice actor Jeff Hays.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  9. 19

    The Incredible Science-Backed Benefits of Reading

    Here's why books ARE good! Luke pages through multiple studies showing the (often mind-blowing) ways that reading has been proven to be beneficial for us. Stay connected on our socials:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  10. 18

    Luke Hears From YOU!

    It's time to hear some of the beautiful messages about books and reading that have been generously shared from the Good Books community, as Luke reacts and gives his thoughts. And it just might get emotional.  Got something to send of your own to be featured in a future episode? Send your voice notes to [email protected] Stay connected on our socials:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  11. 17

    BOOK CLUB: The Midnight Library by Matthew Haig

    Luke reflects on the life-affirming messages within Matthew Haig's best-seller the Midnight Library; delving into its themes of alternate lives, regret and possibility and how he saw himself within it.Plus, find out which book the Good Books Club will be looking at next! Warning: this episode contains brief mentions of self harm Join in the Book Club discussion! We'd love to hear your thoughts on this book. Send your voice memos to [email protected] Stay connected on our socials:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  12. 16

    How books help Nath Valvo 'Do the Work'

    Luke brings his fresh friendship with comedian Nath Valvo out of the jungle and into Good Books studio! Nath reveals the books that help him in his comedy and screenwriting, his childhood reading loves (that might just trigger some nostalgia) and the queer romance novel that he thinks 'walked so things like Heated Rivalry could run.'  They also discuss how personal growth can challenge others, how it's sometimes difficult to say you're good at what you do and Nathan's somewhat controversial take on audiobooks... Have someone you'd LOVE for Luke to talk to next? Or anything else you want him to hear?Send your voice memos to [email protected] Stay connected on our socials:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  13. 15

    The Role Models I Found in Fiction (and What They Showed Me)

    The characters we find in novels may not exist outside of our imaginations - but the values, lessons and examples they provide are real.  From someone that mirrored Luke's own experience, to the kind of parent he hopes he can be in the future, here are some of his favourite literary role models. Who are the characters that have inspired, challenged or changed you? Let Luke know by sending your voice notes to [email protected].   Stay connected on our socials:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  14. 14

    How Men Can (and Must) Heal Their Pain, with Matt Brown (She is Not Your Rehab)

    True strength and responsibility as a man doesn't come in any pre-conceived definition of masculinity, but in the courage to confront your own unprocessed pain That's according to Matt Brown—author, barber, and founder of the global movement She Is Not Your Rehab. Drawing from his own experience of leaving a childhood home at just 15 years old, Matt has become a leading voice in the movement to end generational trauma. In this conversation, Luke and Matt dive deep into why men must take radical responsibility for their own healing, why places like barbershops can be key to unlocking male vulnerability, how to ensure the next generation doesn't carry burdens that aren't theirs to bear, along with practical steps for men to begin their own healing journey today - including how reading and writing can be the most powerful tools. Connect with Matt Brown: Website: She Is Not Your Rehab Instagram: @SheIsNotYourRehab Send your voice memo to [email protected].  Stay connected on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  15. 13

    Luke's perfect FIRST FANTASY reads

    Did Luke ever mention he's pretty into fantasy novels? But what about you? If you're yet to discover the magic of the genre, here are some titles Luke reckons are the perfect places to start. They dispel common myths, answer common criticisms, they might reassure you that fantasy isn't too different from what you're reading already - and above all, they're just good books! Do you agree with these picks? What have you recommended as a first fantasy for your friends? What got you into fantasy? Send your voice memo to [email protected].  Stay connected on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  16. 12

    The Writer's Room: Kristin Hannah

    Does Kristin Hannah deliberately try to devastate us emotionally with her writing? The legendary best-selling author of The Women, the Great Alone, the Nightingale and Between Sisters sits down with Luke to discuss her process, her research, her emotionally devastating reputation and more. Is there an author you’d love to hear Luke interview next? Or a book he NEEDS to read? Or anything else you want to share? Send your voice memo to [email protected].  Stay connected on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  17. 11

    BOOK CLUB: The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by VE Schwab

    Complete immortality. Total freedom. But the world will never know you. Would you take the deal? Today Luke dives into the magic, heartbreak and sensuality of our most recent Good Books Club read. What would YOU like to be part of our book club next? Send your voice memo to [email protected]. Stay connected on our socials:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  18. 10

    4 MUST READS If You Loved the Movie

    There are some things the screen just can’t capture. From all time classics to those in cinemas now, from tear-jerking romances to sci-fi epics, here are Luke’s top picks for books that are worth the read even when you’ve already seen the film. What are your top picks on this topic? Got a book recommendation for Luke? Or anything else you want him to hear?  Send us your voice note by emailing us at [email protected].  Stay connected on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  19. 9

    Love Stories That Last the Ages (Part 2)

    The love goes on! Luke continues to unpack the literary relationships that give us all the feels.    We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at [email protected].  Follow all the action on our socials:  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  20. 8

    Love Stories That Last the Ages (Part 1)

    Hopeless romantics, meet Luke.  These are the books that make your heart ACHE — from the secret locker room romance of Heated Rivalry to the emotional wrecking ball that is The Song of Achilles and more…   We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at [email protected].  Follow all the action on our socials:  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  21. 7

    BOOK CLUB: Moon Blooded Breeding Clinic by C.M. Nascosta

    Join The Good Books Club as Luke reviews C.M. Nascosta's spicy read, 'Moon Blooded Breeding Clinic'.  We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at [email protected].  Follow all the action on our socials:  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  22. 6

    The Writer's Room: Paullina Simons

    Paullina Simons talks how her life shaped her writing, The Bronze Horseman, her new book The Bell and the Blade, and why she writes 'love in loveless times' [00:43] - Paullina on finding Luke [02:21] - Paullina’s early life [05:34] - How Paullina’s love of stories began  [07:35] - Paullina’s earliest literary loves: The Three Musketeers, Les Miserables, the Count of Monte Cristo [12:22] - Paullina’s first story [15:15] - Why Paullina is drawn to writing about hardship and resilience  [17:13] - Victor Frankl’s ‘Man’s Search for Meaning’ [18:48] - The Bronze Horseman [25:00] - The Bell and the Blade [33:22] - What is Paullina’s favourite out of everything she’s written? [35:38] - what Advice would Paullina give to an aspiring writer? [36:21] - East of Eden by John Steinbeck [39:35] - Paullina’s Good Book  [40:45] - Ordinary People by Judith Guest [41:06] - Shopgirl by Steve Martin [41:50] - Paullina’s relationship to fantasy [42:49] - The Lord of the Rings by JRR Tolkien [43:07] - The Hobbit by JRR Tolkien [44:38] - What’s next? We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at [email protected].  Follow all the action on our socials:  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  23. 5

    Want To Be A Better Reader? Here's How!

    Struggling to start a habit or stay motivated?  Hear all the practical, no-pressure advice and proven hacks to help anyone discover the joy of reading and make it a daily practice. (00:00) Intro (00:31) Listener Audio (02:20)Why Reading is Important (05:11) Mindset Tip #1: Drop the Shoulds (07:33) Mindset Tip #2: The 50 Page Rule (08:33) Mindset Tip #3: Develop a Reading Identity (09:52) Medium Tip #1: Audiobooks are Not Cheating  (12:22) Medium Tip #2: Invest in a Portable Reader  (14:12) Habit Tip #1: Habit Stacking  (15:16) Habit Tip #2: Replace Your Scrolling  (16:14) Habit Tip #3: Make it Social (18:20) Consistency Beats Intensity (20:35) Share Your Reading Tips and Tricks We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at [email protected].  Follow all the action on our socials:  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  24. 4

    Luke's Favourite Fictional Friendships

    From ride-or-die besties to deep, complex bonds, Luke explores the most memorable friendships which anchor the greatest fantasy novels and fictional worlds. (00:00) Intro (00:34) Listener Audio (04:47) Friendships in Fiction (07:12) Friendship #1: Locke and Jean from The Gentleman Bastard series (11:57)Friendship #2: Jude and Willem from A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara (17:53)Friendship #3: Aman Jair and Arlen Bales from The Demon Cycle series (22:27) The Importance of Friendship (24:06) Share Your Friendship Stories and Favorite Fictional Friendships We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at [email protected].  Follow all the action on our socials:  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  25. 3

    BOOK CLUB: The Bronze Horseman by Paullina Simons

    Join The Good Books Club as Luke reviews Paullina Simons’ sweeping historical romance, The Bronze Horseman. (00:00) Intro (00:34) Listener Audio (03:23) The Bronze Horseman by Paullina Simons (04:15) First Impressions (06:18) The Setting: Leningrad, the Siege, and the War Hardship (09:11) Tension in the Metanova Apartment (10:26) The Love Story (11:38) The Sexual/Romantic Writing (13:40) Alexander's Character (16:45) SPOILER: Alexander's Sacrifice and The Ending (19:20) Final Takeaway (21:05) The Next Book Club Pick: Moon Blooded Breeding Clinic by CM Ncosta We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at [email protected].  Follow all the action on our socials:  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  26. 2

    Celebrating Unsung Heroes

    Move over, Chosen Ones.  We're shining a spotlight on the fantastic but often overlooked side characters of fantasy who well and truly make the story. (00:00) Intro (00:34) Listener Audio: A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara (04:33) Unsung Heroes in Fiction (06:03) #1: Samwise Gamgee from The Lord of the Rings (09:28) #2: Szeth-son-son-Vallano from Stormlight Archive (12:49) #3: Night Eyes from Realm of the Elderlings (16:41) The Importance of Unsung Heroes and Why We Relate to Them (18:19) Share Your Favorite Unsung Heroes We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at [email protected].  Follow all the action on our socials:  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  27. 1

    Read These To THRIVE in 2026

    New year, new me... Right?  Luke shares the four most impactful non-fiction books to help you achieve personal growth, cultivate success, and change your mindset for a better 2026. (00:00) Intro (00:34) Listener Audio (01:19) Book Recommendation: The Heart's Invisible Furies by John Boyne (02:29) How to Become the Best Version of Yourself (04:47) The Science of Stuck by Britt Frank (08:21) Atomic Habits by James Clear (11:24) The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins (15:40) The Second Mountain by David Brooks (20:01) The 4-Book Wrap Up (21:00) Make Reading Books A 2026 Goal We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at [email protected].  Follow all the action on our socials:  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  28. 0

    The Old Kingdom Trilogy

    Forget everything you know about magic. From a deep dive into the incredible world-building to the unforgettable journey of Sabriel, Luke tackles Garth Nix's iconic fantasy series, The Old Kingdom Trilogy. (00:00) Intro (00:32) Listener Audio (02:39) The Old Kingdom Trilogy by Garth Nix (05:07) Initial Connection to the Series (07:08) Sabriel by Garth Nix (10:45) Lirael by Garth Nix (15:03) Abhorsen by Garth Nix (17:54) Encouragement to Read or Reread the Trilogy (19:05) Call to Listeners: Share Your Takeaways (19:50) Closing Remarks We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at [email protected].  Follow all the action on our socials:  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  29. -1

    BOOK CLUB: The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah

    Join The Good Books Club as Luke reviews Kristin Hannah's epic Alaskan survival story, The Great Alone.  (00:00) Intro (00:34) Listener Audio (03:19) The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah   (04:12) First Impressions (05:22) Immediate Takeaways (07:20) The Setting of Alaska (08:16) Key Themes (11:57) Complex Characters (15:50) SPOILER WARNING: The Ending  (21:17) Call to Listeners: Your Experiences of the Book (23:53) The Next Book Club Pick: The Bronze Horseman by Paullina Simons We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at [email protected].  Follow all the action on our socials:  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  30. -2

    The Writer’s Room: Matthew Reilly

    Matthew Reilly steps into The Writer's Room to discuss his latest books The Detective and the creative process behind his bestselling novels. (00:54) Matthew Reilly's Books Shaped Luke's Reading Journey (02:55) Getting Young Guys Back to Reading: The Power of Ice Station and Hell Island (05:01) Influential School Books: To Kill a Mockingbird and Lord of the Flies (07:31) Literary Influences (09:07) Advice to His 19-Year-Old Self  (13:43) The Epic Scope of Mr. Einstein's Secretary (14:16) Finding Sam Speedman's Voice in The Detective (17:10) Every New Book Must Be Better Than the Last (22:01) Not Surprising the Reader with Unsolvable Twists (27:55) Obsessiveness in Writing (33:42) Writing for Book Clubs (39:15)The Impact of Killing Off a Character in Scarecrow (44:34) Matthew Reilly's "Good Book" We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at [email protected].  Follow all the action on our socials:  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  31. -3

    Books Which Will Bring You To Tears

    Warning: Get tissues.  Luke recommends the most emotionally powerful novels. why we often seek out books that make us cry and how they help us process our own feelings. (00:00) Intro (00:39) Listener Audio (02:42) Books That Still Bring Me to Tears (04:16) Impenetrability is Harmful (07:11) Loss in Magician by Raymond E. Feist (09:12) Loneliness in The Witcher (11:17) Sacrifice in The Demon Cycle by Peter V. Brett (13:36) Reunion in Fool's Fate by Robin Hobb (15:32) Historical Fiction: The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah (17:41) Post-Apocalyptic Fiction: The Road by Cormac McCarthy (19:17) Conclusion: Vulnerability is Strength (22:02) Closing Remarks We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at [email protected].  Follow all the action on our socials:  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  32. -4

    There’s A Reason It’s Called Epic Fantasy

    If there is one thing Luke loves, it’s a quest.  Luke picks three essential reads that define the epic fantasy genre, diving deep into epic world-building, intricate magic systems, and characters on journeys of impossible scale. (00:00) Intro (00:39) Listener Recommendation: A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin (07:58) Introducing Epic Fantasy (08:25) Personal Connection: Fantasy as an Escape (13:58) What to Expect: Not Just Swords and Soldiers (15:25) Defining Epic Fantasy vs. Fantasy (17:16) Assassin's Apprentice by Robin Hobb (17:47) The Painted Man by Peter V. Brett (18:08) The Eye of the World by Robert Jordan (19:49) Call to Listeners: Share Your Epic Fantasy Stories  We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at [email protected].  Follow all the action on our socials:  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  33. -5

    Introducing My First Guest

    Strap in, because this is a very special and emotional episode. Luke is joined by his biggest supporter, his Mum, to discuss his childhood love of reading, the books that shaped him, and the stories they cherish together. (00:00) Intro (01:08)The First Book Club Pick: The Great Alone (02:12) Introducing Special Guest: Luke's Mother, Leanne (03:30) Reading Rituals As Kids (04:52) Favorite Childhood Reading Memories (06:30) Reading's Positive Impact (07:47) Luke's Deep Passion for Books (09:42) A Box of Books During Luke's Struggle (11:09) Advice to Parents (15:43) Mom's Fear about Luke's Vulnerability on Social Media (18:24) Authenticity & Joy (20:31) Luke's Final Thank You We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at [email protected].  Follow all the action on our socials:  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  34. -6

    Let's Talk About Smut

    Is it hot in here? Luke's diving into the world of spicy books! It's time to unpack all things "smut," why its blown up as a genre, and the best reading recommendations if you're looking for something a little more saucy. (00:00) Intro (00:39) Listener Suggestion: The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab (02:34) Smut in Literature and Its Place in Culture (03:25) A Male Perspective: Shame and Barriers (04:18) Calling Tiona Page (Author and Friend) (07:44) Smut as Empowerment for Women (13:25) Creating A Community (13:56) Discovering Monster Smut (18:11) A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Mass (18:58) The Witch Collector by Charissa Weaks (19:30) Morning Glory Milking Farm by C.M. Nascosta (20:53) Call to Listeners: Share Your Smut Stories and Favorite Books We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at [email protected].  Follow all the action on our socials:  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  35. -7

    Three Books That Saved My Life...

    Stories have the power to change you. Sometimes, a few very special few have the power to save you.  In this episode, Luke talks about three books which provided an escape from reality and helped him to navigate life during the darkest of times. (00:00) Intro (01:21) 3 Books That Changed My Life (01:48) Struggling with Depression and Addiction (03:22) Accepting Help and Changing Direction (06:11) The Happiness Trap by Dr. Russ Harris (10:34) Magician by Raymond E. Feist (17:17) You Are the One You've Been Waiting For by Richard Schwartz (18:07) Finding the "Little Boy" Again (19:54) How These 3 Books Restored Wonder and Authenticity (20:47) Share Your Vulnerable Stories and Books That Saved Your Life We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at [email protected].  Follow all the action on our socials:  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  36. -8

    Chapter One: My Story

    From the NRL field to overnight BookTok fame, Luke shares the personal journey which has all led to laying bare a deep passion for reading.  We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at [email protected].  Follow all the action on our socials:  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  37. -9

    Coming Soon...

    Are you ready to get In The Good Books? Your next must-listen, weekly podcast is coming very soon... Hit the follow button at the top of your app so you don't miss out.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

What’s your story? Everyone has one — the ones we read and the ones we live.In The Good Books is a new weekly podcast that serves as a community for those who believe in the power of a good story.Each week, host Luke Bateman shares the books that have shaped his world, from timeless classics to buzzy bestsellers. He’ll also sit down with the most fascinating voices in the literary world — from bestselling authors to emerging new talent — as they reveal the inspirations behind their work.This is more than a book club; it's a space to explore how the stories we consume influence the lives we lead.We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at [email protected]. Follow all the action on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast

HOSTED BY

9Podcasts

Produced by Hannah Sterling

CATEGORIES

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does In The Good Books with Luke Bateman have?

In The Good Books with Luke Bateman currently has 37 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is In The Good Books with Luke Bateman about?

What’s your story? Everyone has one — the ones we read and the ones we live.In The Good Books is a new weekly podcast that serves as a community for those who believe in the power of a good story.Each week, host Luke Bateman shares the books that have shaped his world, from timeless classics to...

How often does In The Good Books with Luke Bateman release new episodes?

In The Good Books with Luke Bateman has 37 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to In The Good Books with Luke Bateman?

You can listen to In The Good Books with Luke Bateman on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts In The Good Books with Luke Bateman?

In The Good Books with Luke Bateman is created and hosted by 9Podcasts.
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