UTS writing graduate Cassie Stroud on publishing her debut novel and shaping a career in writing

A communications degree and a career across industries

Since graduating, Cassie has taken what she describes as a “career chameleon” approach, moving across roles in media, marketing, education, copywriting and content management.

She credits her communications degree with giving her a skill set that is adaptable across industries, while still grounded in writing. Each role has allowed her to continue developing her voice, while building broader professional experience.

“I found a communications degree to be endlessly adaptable for employers.”  

Writing a debut novel inspired by contemporary fiction

Cassie set out to write the kind of novel she enjoys reading. She was drawn to family dramas that focus on adult relationships and tensions, inspired by writers such as Tessa Hadley, Charlotte Wood and Ann Patchett.

“Stories about adult siblings and family tension are so rich in character detail.” 

She was also influenced by novels centred around place, especially those with a strong sense of house and setting. In her own work, this is reflected through Iluka, the house at the centre of her novel, and a focus on writing that feels both contemporary and distinctly Australian.

Why original artwork still matters in publishing

For Cassie, the creative process extends beyond the writing itself. When it came to the cover of her novel, she was closely involved in shaping its visual direction.

Working with cover designer Emily O’Neill, she shared a mood board of inspiration images, including paintings of rocky shorelines, women swimming and 1950s fibro beach houses.

The final cover features an original artwork by UK artist Jon Doran, titled ‘Morning Swimmer 6’. For Cassie, using original, credited artwork was an important part of the process and reflects her broader commitment to creative integrity.

“It is extremely important to me to have original, credited art at every stage of a creative process,” she tells us. 

Balancing writing with work and daily life

Cassie’s writing practice is shaped by the realities of balancing creative work with paid employment and home life; “it’s not always day-to-day, though I know it probably should be”. 

Rather than a fixed daily routine, she writes when she can, often in short bursts. She begins her work by hand, which allows her to write in a more flexible and portable way.

“I write in brief snatches which I think does contribute to my prose style of short, succinct chapters and my preference for brevity.” 

She is now working on her second novel and says, “I hope to keep writing stories that people enjoy, so that I can keep going with this thing that I love”. 

What an author reads

“I’m reading Kin by Tayari Jones, which is a moving story about friendship,” Cassie informs us.  

“My favourite book (at the moment) would probably be Night Waking by Sarah Moss. She is a beautiful stylist with an exacting eye for detail.”

Advice for aspiring writers

For students interested in becoming published authors, Cassie points to two key ideas.

The first is to finish what you start. While new projects can be appealing, completing a manuscript is necessary if you want to submit your work.

“I find starting projects endlessly alluring but pushing through the harder work and messiness of the middle, and ultimately bringing your story to a close, is essential.”  

The second is persistence. Continuing to write is fundamental, and there is value in taking the time to develop your craft. 

“It’s an ageless career, so don’t get too hung up on publishing immediately. Focus on making your best work.”