In this episode of Quick Book Reviews, Philippa is joined by bestselling author Jennie Godfrey to talk about her wonderful new novel, The Barbecue at No.9.

Jennie’s debut, The List of Suspicious Things, became a word-of-mouth sensation, and her second novel is just as joyful, moving and addictive.

Set over the twelve hours of Live Aid in 1985, The Barbecue at Number Nine follows the residents of a new-build estate as secrets unravel, tensions rise, and lives change forever. Somebody is watching them — and by the end of the day, nothing will be the same again.

In this warm, funny and fascinating conversation, Philippa and Jennie discuss:

• Second-book nerves and writing under pressure
• Why writers should finish book two before book one is published
• Living and writing in rural Somerset
• Why Live Aid became the backdrop to the novel
• Nostalgia, secrets and the endurance of the human spirit
• Character inspiration and the joy of fictional neighbours
• Jennie’s whirlwind publishing journey
• Reading habits, audiobooks and Kindle life
• The importance of maps in novels
• The ultimate biscuit discussion (including M&S biscuity clouds)

Preorder here: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/16356/9781529155013

📚 Books mentioned in this episode:

• The Barbecue at No 9 – Jennie Godfrey
• The List of Suspicious Things – Jennie Godfrey
• Dead Heat – Sabine Durrant
• The Shock of the Light – Laurie Inglis Hall
• Nightwatching – Tracy Sierra

Jennie also shares what she’s currently reading, her dream and nightmare writing locations, and the two moments in her career that truly took her breath away.

The Barbecue at No 9 is published next week.

Pre-orders are now open.

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