This week, Sophie talks about why a grudge is not, and cannot be, a feeling. And if it isn't a feeling, then why do nearly all the available dictionary definitions tell us that it is? What would be a more accurate and helpful definition of the word 'grudge' that doesn't discourage us from holding them? Also in this episode: some brilliant grudge poems by Sophie's two favorite living poets: Wendy Cope and Nic Aubury.

The How to Hold a Grudge theme was provided by Annette Armitage, a composer, musician and teacher, and co-writer (with Sophie) of two mystery themed musicals: THE GENERALIST - A MURDER MYSTERY MUSICAL and WORK EXPERIENCE - A MUSICAL LOCKED ROOM MYSTERY.

Sophie's new book HOW TO HOLD A GRUDGE: THE POWER OF GRUDGES TO TRANSFORM YOUR LIFE is available now in hardback, eBook and audiobook. Buy now http://smarturl.it/GrudgePodcast

In this first episode, Sophie explains what made her - a crime writer and poet - decide to write a self-help book on the subject of grudges. Sophie talks about why she's firmly convinced that our grudges can and should be good for us and explains how, precisely, we can benefit from our grudges.

This week Sophie is joined by special guests psychotherapist Helen Acton and mentor, coach, meditation teacher and therapist Anne Grey, to discuss grudges in all their glory.

Sophie's new book HOW TO HOLD A GRUDGE: THE POWER OF GRUDGES TO TRANSFORM YOUR LIFE is available now in hardback, eBook and audiobook. Buy now http://smarturl.it/GrudgePodcast

The How to Hold a Grudge theme was provided by Annette Armitage, a composer, musician and teacher, and co-writer (with Sophie) of two mystery themed musicals: THE GENERALIST - A MURDER MYSTERY MUSICAL and WORK EXPERIENCE - A MUSICAL LOCKED ROOM MYSTERY.

Many of us believe it’s always wrong, and bad for us, to hold a grudge. But what if our grudges, when handled correctly, can be positively good for us and for others? What if grudges are actually great — not a cause for guilt, but exactly what we need to lead a happier, safer, more fulfilled life? Join internationally bestselling crime writer and grudge-holder extraordinaire Sophie Hannah to find out all about the power of grudges to transform your life for the better and to make the world a more peaceful and compassionate place.

If you’re intrigued and want to know more, you can listen to a new episode of this podcast every Thursday evening between 25th October and 27 December.

Sophie's new book HOW TO HOLD A GRUDGE: THE POWER OF GRUDGES TO TRANSFORM YOUR LIFE publishes on 1st November 2018 in hardback, eBook and audiobook. Pre-order now http://smarturl.it/GrudgePodcast