In this episode of the Book Deal Podcast, host Natasha Rai interviews Michelle See-Tho, the 2023 Penguin Literary Prize winner. Michelle discusses her debut novel, 'Jade and Emerald,' the thematic elements of class, race, loneliness, and family in her story, and her journey from ideation to publication. She reflects on her experience in the Kill Your Darlings Mentors Program, which helped shape her manuscript, and the subsequent process of winning the prestigious Penguin Literary Prize. The conversation covers the intricate details of structural and line edits, cover design deliberations, and the ensuing publicity and launch events. Michelle also shares valuable advice for aspiring writers, emphasizing perseverance and the importance of constantly improving one's craft.

00:00 Introduction to the Book Deal Podcast

00:34 Meet Michelle See-Tho: Freelance Writer and Award-Winning Author

01:18 Discussing 'Jade and Emerald': Themes and Inspirations

02:43 The Writing Process: From Idea to Manuscript

08:48 Mentorship and Development: The Kill Your Darlings Program

14:42 Submitting to Competitions: The Road to Winning the Penguin Literary Prize

18:46 The Moment of Victory: Winning the Penguin Literary Prize

21:39 Special Segment: Introducing Emma Babington and Her Novel 'The Neighbors'

22:19 Liv's Quest and the Murder Mystery

23:03 The Announcement and Penguin Office Visit

24:08 Structural Edits and Initial Changes

27:30 Line Edits and Cover Design

31:09 Publication and Publicity

36:24 Reflections and Advice for Writers

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