Psychological Thriller Author Petronella McGovern on Writing Every Time She Wakes | Book Launch, Publishing & Writing Tips

Australian psychological thriller author Petronella McGovern joins the podcast to discuss her highly anticipated new novel, *Every Time She Wakes*, releasing June 30. In this episode, Petronella shares her journey from passionate childhood reader to bestselling author, revealing how she transitioned from writing romance to crafting gripping psychological thrillers. We dive into the inspiration behind *Every Time She Wakes*, a suspense-filled time-loop thriller exploring alternate realities, life-changing decisions, and the question: what if one moment could change everything? Petronella also offers practical advice for aspiring writers, discussing the realities of publishing, overcoming rejection, building an author platform, networking within the writing community, and developing a sustainable writing practice. Whether you're a fan of psychological suspense, an aspiring novelist, or curious about the publishing industry, this conversation is packed with insights into the creative process behind successful thriller writing. In this episode - The story behind *Every Time She Wakes* - Writing psychological thrillers and suspense fiction - The "sliding doors" concept and alternate realities in storytelling - Transitioning from romance writing to thriller novels - How to handle rejection and stay motivated as a writer - The importance of understanding genre expectations - Crafting a compelling first chapter - Building connections within the publishing industry - The editing process and developing unforgettable characters - Supporting emerging authors through mentoring and coaching - Book launch plans and future writing projects About Every Time She Wakes When university careers counsellor Suze and her family are evacuated during a devastating bushfire, a tragic van crash leaves her certain she's about to die. Instead, she wakes up two weeks earlier. No one else remembers what happened. Then it happens again. Each time Suze wakes, she's living a different version of her life. As reality shifts around her, she must uncover what's happening before time runs out—and find her way back to the world she recognises. A gripping psychological thriller that blends suspense, mystery, and mind-bending time loops.Keywords Petronella McGovern, Every Time She Wakes, psychological thriller author, Australian thriller writer, thriller writing podcast, writing tips for authors, publishing advice, psychological suspense books, time loop thriller, suspense fiction, book launch interview, author podcast, writing process, aspiring novelist, Australian authors, thriller books 2026, writing community, publishing journey, psychological suspense novels