On January 24th, 2026, Nevena and Macca had an insightful conversation with Oscar Revelins, a rising literary talent. Revelins, the author of the captivating novel 'Delicate Friends', offers a unique perspective on the Australian publishing scene for new authors.
But who is Oscar Revelins? With a background in theatre, film, and television from UCLA, Revelins found his true calling in English Literature, earning his degree at the University of Western Australia. His journey took him from Melbourne to Los Angeles and back, with a brief stop in Perth, shaping his experiences and influencing his writing.
The year 2025 marked a significant milestone in Revelins' career. He not only published his debut novel, 'Delicate Friends', but also garnered critical acclaim with multiple awards and recognitions. 'The Light Declines' won the prestigious Varnish Prize for Fiction, 'Bishops' placed third at the My Brother Jack Literary Awards, and 'After The Funeral' was selected for the Perth Queer Film Festival.
However, Revelins' journey to publication wasn't without its challenges. In 2024, he shared his experiences in an article for the Grattan Street Press blog, titled 'What I Wish I'd Known Trying to Publish a Book at 23 with No Connections'. Here, Revelins offers a glimpse into the struggles of breaking into the publishing world, a topic that many aspiring authors can relate to.
And now, let's delve into the heart of 'Delicate Friends'. Set in Perth, the novel introduces us to Austin, a twenty-year-old protagonist who leaves his grief-laden life in Melbourne behind. As he strives for reinvention, he encounters class struggles, social isolation, and a complex relationship with his estranged cousin. But the real twist comes with the entrance of Ezra, an older, jaded romantic interest. Despite their contrasting personalities, Austin and Ezra form an unconventional friendship, balancing on the edge of desire and disaster.
As the story unfolds, Revelins masterfully explores the blurred lines between friendship and romance, delving into the masochistic games people play to find acceptance. But here's where it gets controversial—is the pursuit of belonging worth the risk of vulnerability? Are we willing to face our deepest wounds to find true connection?
Listen to the full interview on the Saturday Magazine podcast to discover more about Oscar Revelins and his intriguing literary journey. And don't forget to share your thoughts on the delicate balance between friends and lovers in the comments below. Do you think vulnerability is a risk worth taking in the pursuit of meaningful relationships?
