Authors Charlotte Mendelson and Liz Hyder go head to head in a war of the words. It's been 9 years since Charlotte published a novel - and on this episode she tells us all about her new book - "The Exhibitionist" - and how she feels now it's finally being published. The novel is an exploration of art, sacrifice, toxic family politics, queer desire and personal freedom. And Liz tells us about her first novel for adults - "The Gifts" - where her fascination with Victorian history came from, and how a graveyard helped her name lots of her characters. The novel is a gripping and ambitious story, told through five different perspectives, and explores science, nature, religion, enlightenment and the role of women in society. They also discuss their book buying habits, how cities can be just as inspirational as the countryside and the lure of Orkney - and in particular, Twatt. In the Book Off, they pit George Mackay Brown's short story collection, "Hawkfall", against Charlotte Bronte's "Villette" - but which one will win??? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.