Sarah Handyside: The Debut’s Handbook

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Debut author, Sarah Handyside, has a handbook for you. Joins us as Sarah chronicles her path to publishing her novel, "Instructions for Heartbreak." From a childhood love of storytelling to a career in communications and policy, Sarah's experiences have shaped her narrative and provided invaluable insights into the writing process. 

Publishing a book is a complex journey, full of unexpected twists and turns. We explore the multifaceted roles of agents, editors, and marketers in shaping a book's path to the shelves. Sarah and I discuss embracing the identity of a writer amidst self-doubt and share personal anecdotes about the transformative friendships and cultural influences that have shaped our narratives. 

Through themes of heartbreak, camaraderie, and personal growth, we aim to inspire those on the brink of their creative journeys to embrace both the highs and lows of bringing a story to life.

Instructions for Heartbreak

What if heartbreak came with a manual?

It starts with a late-night knock on the door. Dee, Liv and Rosa share a flat in south London, while Katie lives close by with her boyfriend. But, when Katie’s nine-year relationship ends – suddenly and brutally – she turns up on their doorstep with no idea what to do next, or how to do anything after spending so long with her life entwined with someone else’s.

Out comes the martini shaker (an old, well-washed gherkin jar) and, with an unused sketchbook, an idea. They’ll make Katie the handbook that she needs to process her heartbreak and start rebuilding her life. There are notes on tears, hangovers and roast chicken, scribblings about music, new bedding and pure, white-hot rage.

But Katie is not the only one nursing a broken heart. Rosa is a hopeless romantic, despite still reeling from her ex’s infidelity. Scarred by her ex’s parting words, Dee is committed to being commitment-free. And while Liv knows that breaking up with her girlfriend was what she wanted, she can’t help but wonder if she did the right thing.

Tested by big life changes, even the closest friendships can fray – could the heartbreak handbook they intended for Katie contain the words they all need to hear?

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"Enjoying 'The Conversation'? Support the podcast by buying me a cup of coffee ☕️

https://ko-fi.com/nadinematheson

Purchase books by the featured authors through my affiliate shop on Bookshop.org

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