In our series Debut Discussions, we're asking debut authors to tell us their story -- not only the story in the novel they wrote -- but the journey they took to hold that book in their hands. On today's episode we welcome Sarah-Jane Collins to discuss her debut, Radiant Heat, a slow-burn, atmospheric story about a catastrophic wildfire and the mysterious connection between two apparent strangers.

Sarah-Jane shares her early reading habits and the strong influence of her family's love for books; the inspiration behind Radiant Heat and the themes she wanted to explore; how being a journalist informed the story; her decision to pursue writing and enroll in an MFA program; the process of finding an agent; and the incredibly permanent way Sarah-Jane embraced astrology! We were impressed!

Listen now to Sarah-Jane Collins’ story wherever you get your podcasts. Radiant Heat is out now -- buy it, read it, and share it (in other words, make a debut author’s dreams come true!).