In this episode of In My Good Books, bestselling author Vaseem Khan joins Susie to discuss his thrilling new novel Quantum of Menace - the first book in a bold new series featuring Q as the protagonist instead of James Bond.

Vas shares what it was like collaborating with the Ian Fleming estate, how he approached reimagining an iconic world, and why Q is the perfect character for exploring technology, espionage, and moral complexity in the modern age.

The conversation delves into Vas’s writing process, his signature blend of humour and social commentary, and how his background in crime fiction shaped this new adventure. He also reveals his plans for future Q novels, the challenges of writing within the Bond universe, and the books currently inspiring him.

Whether you’re a James Bond fan, a crime fiction lover, or simply fascinated by how authors reinvent literary icons, this episode offers sharp insight and plenty of behind-the-scenes revelations.

Books recommended in this episode:

The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley

The Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris

The Other Valley by Scott Alexander Howard

In this episode, debut author James Robert Moore joins Susie to talk about his uplifting and emotional novel Not Good Enough. A story about self-discovery, belonging, and the beauty of chosen family.

James shares how his background in theatre has shaped his writing process and character dynamics, and opens up about his publishing journey, from entering writing competitions to finally holding his first novel in print.

They discuss the importance of LGBTQ representation in literature, how writing can be deeply therapeutic, and why stories like Not Good Enough are helping readers feel seen and celebrated.

James also gives a glimpse into his next project about surrogacy, and shares some brilliant book recommendations you won’t want to miss — including Disappoint Me by Nicola Dinan and Avoidance, Drugs, Heartbreak and Dogs by Jordan Stevens.

Whether you’re a fan of uplifting LGBTQ fiction, curious about the writing process, or just love hearing the story behind the story, this conversation will leave you feeling inspired and ready to pick up your next great read.

In this episode of In My Good Books, Susie talks to Jo Morey, author of the captivating literary suspense novel The Night Lagoon (published in the US as Lime Juice Money). Set against the lush backdrop of Belize, this stunning debut follows a hearing-impaired chef named Laelia as family secrets, identity, and memory intertwine in haunting and unexpected ways.

Jo shares how her personal experience with hearing loss shaped the novel’s emotional depth and influenced its unreliable narrator. She also opens up about her writing process, the challenges of researching Belize authentically, and the long road to finding a literary agent.

Whether you love character-driven literary fiction, are fascinated by how writers transform personal experiences into art, or simply want new book recommendations, this episode is for you.

You can connect with Jo online at https://jomorey.com/ and https://www.instagram.com/jomoreystory/

You can buy The Night Lagoon here: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/the-night-lagoon-jo-morey/e8988cc3d443f4a7?ean=9780008713898&next=t

Books recommended in this episode:

Wellness by Nathan Hill

The Whispers by Audrey Audrain

Sharp Glass by Sarah Hilary

The Dry by Jane Harper

Dark Places by Gillian Flynn

The Blue Hour by Paula Hawkins

Author Emily Buchanan joins In My Good Books to talk about her debut novel Send Flowers, a powerful story that blends grief, climate activism, and magical realism. Emily shares how her background in activism shaped her writing, why humour can make heavy topics more human, and how community keeps hope alive.

We also discuss authenticity in fiction, the role of social media in activism, and what Emily’s working on next.

Send Flowers is a must-read for fans of literary fiction, climate novels, and emotionally resonant storytelling.

Buy Send Flowers here: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/send-flowers-emily-buchanan/34fcc834059d12d9?ean=9780857308931&next=t&next=t

Books recommended in this episode:

Writing the Other by Nisi Shawl & Cynthia Ward

The Great Orchid Heist by Eleanor Vendrell

Meredith, Alone by Claire Alexander

In this episode of In My Good Books, debut author Hannah Brennan talks about her gripping crime thriller No Safe Place, a story that blends psychological suspense with themes of mental health and OCD. We dive into her writing process, the inspiration for her characters, and how community support fuels her creativity. Hannah also gives a sneak peek at her upcoming novel Nothing Left Behind and shares must-read book recommendations for fans of crime fiction and stories exploring mental health

Buy No Safe Place here: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/untitled-book-1-hannah-brennan/7839979?ean=9780008778064&next=t

Books recommended in this episode:

Mad Girl by Bryony Gordon

59 Minutes by Holly Seddon

The Maeve Kerrigan series by Jane Casey

Susie interviews Celia Silvani, the author of 'Baby Teeth', a psychological suspense novel that delves into themes of motherhood, online communities, and the radical choices women make when feeling unheard. They discuss the protagonist's journey through infertility, the concept of free birthing, and the impact of online communities on mental health. Celia shares her writing journey, the challenges of publishing, and offers book recommendations that resonate with the themes of her own work.

Buy Baby Teeth here: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/baby-teeth-the-emotional-thought-provoking-novel-about-motherhood-secrets-and-lies-celia-silvani/7666784?ean=9781398714410&next=t

Books recommended in this episode:

This Immaculate Body by Emma Van Straaten

The Grapevine by Kate Kemp

Private Lives by Emily Edwards

Open Your Eyes by Heather J. Fitt

Author and podcaster Cailean Steed discusses the intricacies of balancing a creative career with personal life, the challenges of the publishing industry, and the financial realities faced by authors. They delve into the themes of their debut novel, 'Home,' which explores cults and identity, and share insights into their upcoming work, 'The Mirror Halls,' which shifts into the realm of magical realism. The discussion also highlights the importance of transparency in publishing and the need for greater equality within the industry, alongside recommendations for compelling reads.

Buy Home here: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/home-cailean-steed/a073484b54e1f25c?ean=9781526641687&next=t&next=t

Follow Cailean on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caileansteed?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Follow Balancing the Books on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/balancingthebookspod?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Books recommended in this episode:

There Are Rivers In The Sky by Elif Shafak

Dazzlilng by Chikodili Emelumadu

The Half Life of Valery K & Bedlam Stacks by Natasha Pulley

Holly Seddon discusses her latest novel, 59 Minutes, a gripping thriller that explores the emotional and psychological impacts of a nuclear strike. She shares insights into her writing process, the challenges of pacing and structure, and the deep emotional connections she forms with her characters. The discussion also touches on themes of motherhood, human behavior in crisis, and the real-life inspirations behind her work. Holly reflects on her growth as a writer and her excitement for future projects, while also recommending some of her favorite reads.

Buy 59 Minutes: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/59-minutes-the-most-unmissable-and-heart-wrenching-what-would-you-do-thriller-of-2025-holly-seddon/58a0cb8c77b1c613?ean=9781398709492&next=t&next=t

Books recommended in this episode:

The Death of Us, Girl A and Day One - all by Abigail Dean

Consider Yourself Kissed - Jessica Stanley

Buy Callum's books here:

Squeaky Clean: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/squeaky-clean-callum-mcsorley/4fca7b74d38472dd?ean=9781782278382&next=t&next=t

Paperboy: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/paperboy-callum-mcsorley/1f563b86b39ea6a6?ean=9781805335450&next=t&next=t

Other books recommended in this episode:

Neuromancer: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/neuromancer-the-best-of-the-sf-masterworks-william-gibson/9d2493cd3ff769aa?ean=9781399607773&next=t&next=t

Out: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/out-natsuo-kirino/2278462?ean=9780099472285&next=t

The Salt Flats:https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/the-salt-flats-rachelle-atalla/7666895?ean=9781399727310&next=t

Find Callum online:

https://callummcsorley.com/

In this episode Callum McSorley discusses his journey as a crime fiction author, focusing on his works Squeaky Clean and Paperboy. He shares insights into his writing style, the challenges of publishing in Scots, and the importance of authenticity in storytelling. The discussion also delves into the character development of Ali McCoist, the humor embedded in his narratives, and the cultural references that enrich his writing. Callum reflects on his transition from engineering to writing, the inspiration behind his stories, and offers book recommendations that have influenced his work.

In this episode Susie and guest Kevin Woolard explore the world of book reviewing, the impact of AI on literature, and the nuances of graphic design in book presentation. They discuss personal journeys into book reviewing, the importance of community, and the challenges of maintaining engagement in a digital age. The conversation also touches on the significance of fonts and layout in reading experiences, culminating in a series of book recommendations that reflect their shared passion for books!

You can find Kevin on Instagram @thefirstelevenminutes

Books recommended in this episode:

The Cracked Mirror by Chris Brookmyre

Two Kinds of Stranger by Steve Cavanagh

The Last Vow by M.W. Craven

The Memory Collectors by Dete Meserve

Boys Life by Robert R McGammon

The Killer Question by Janice Hallett