Our host, Fiona Taylor, had the absolute pleasure of chatting with author Alli Parker about her brilliant new novel, Until the Red Leaves Fall, our September Historical Fiction Book Box pick

Set in the velvet seats and backstage shadows of 1950s Melbourne theatre, it’s a story of secrets, betrayal, and resilience — with unforgettable characters like Emmy Darling, dancer Isadora Westlake, and the formidable actress and theatre owner Virginia van Belle.

Alli and I discussed the spark that inspired the book, the way her Japanese–Australian heritage influences her storytelling, the delicate balance between weaving history and character, and what it takes to build a voice that’s both lyrical and deeply moving. It was a rich and generous conversation, and I’m so excited to share it with you.

You can listen now on the Reading By Candlelight podcast or watch the full interview on YouTube🎙️📺

Have you read Until the Red Leaves Fall yet? We’d love to know what you thought on socials or in the Reading By Candlelight Book Club on Facebook!

'Reading by Candlelight' is a book subscription that celebrates up-and-coming Australian authors, delicious beverages, and incredible creations. Each month features a different novel paired with a handmade scented candle, a seed paper bookmark, a beverage (choice of alcoholic/nonalcoholic), a surprise, and an invitation to join the RBC Facebook Community.