Ever wondered what it takes to get published as a new author in Australia? It’s a journey filled with challenges, triumphs, and unexpected twists—and Oscar Revelins knows it all too well. On January 24, 2026, Nevena and Macca sat down with Revelins, the acclaimed author of Delicate Friends, for a candid conversation on JOY 94.9’s Saturday Magazine. But here’s where it gets controversial: is the publishing world truly accessible to newcomers, or does it favor those with connections? Revelins, who has navigated this terrain firsthand, shares his insights—and it’s not always pretty.
Born in Melbourne, Revelins spent nine years in Los Angeles and two in Perth before returning to his hometown, where he now resides. His academic journey is just as diverse: after studying theatre, film, and television at the University of California, Los Angeles, he pivoted to English Literature, earning a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Western Australia. This interdisciplinary background shines through in his work, blending storytelling with a keen eye for human complexity.
2025 was a breakout year for Revelins. He published his debut novel, Delicate Friends, a gripping exploration of the blurred lines between friendship and romance. The book follows Austin, a twenty-year-old seeking reinvention in Perth, as he navigates class struggles, social isolation, and a fraught relationship with his estranged cousin. Enter Ezra, an older, jaded counterpart, and their unorthodox bond becomes a tightrope walk between desire and disaster. But this isn’t just a love story—it’s a raw examination of vulnerability, belonging, and the masochistic games we play to find our place in the world. Delicate Friends won the Varnish Prize for Fiction, solidifying Revelins as a literary force to watch.
And this is the part most people miss: Revelins’ success didn’t come overnight. In 2024, he penned a candid article for the Grattan Street Press blog, What I Wish I’d Known Trying to Publish a Book at 23 with No Connections. His teenage years were equally prolific, with his novellas Smoke Tricks and Deserted earning gold and silver keys from the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards in 2017. Yet, despite these accolades, his path to publication was anything but straightforward.
But here’s the real question: Does talent alone guarantee success in the publishing world? Revelins’ journey suggests otherwise. His experiences—from winning prestigious awards to grappling with industry barriers—offer a nuanced look at the highs and lows of authorship. Listen to the full podcast here and decide for yourself. Is the system fair, or does it favor the privileged few? Let’s spark a conversation in the comments—we want to hear your thoughts!
