Advertise on podcast: Quick Book Reviews with Philippa Hall

In this episode of Quick Book Reviews, Philippa Hall is joined by Sarah Hilary to talk about The Drowning Place, the gripping first novel in a new crime series set in the Peak District. Together they discuss crime fiction, setting, writing atmosphere, rural communities, audiobook narration, and the journey of building a new series. T Philippa also reviews two very different books: Mars One by Charlotte Robertson — a high-stakes space thriller packed with sabotage, conspiracy, tension and reality-TV energy. The Faraway Inn by Sarah Beth Durst — a warm, whimsical YA fantasy audiobook full of magic, comfort and cosy escapism.  There’s also a Hay Festival update: Philippa will be appearing with Sheila Kanani at Hay Festival on Friday 22 May 2026 at 8.30pm for The Starspotter’s Guide, a conversation about the night sky, stars and space.  If you enjoy: crime fiction, thriller interviews, atmospheric mysteries, space thrillers, cosy fantasy, audiobook recommendations, and spoiler-free book chat, this episode is for you. Follow Quick Book Reviews for book recommendations, author interviews, and weekly podcast episodes. 📧 Email: [email protected] 📸 Instagram & Threads: @quick_book_reviews 🎵 TikTok: @quickbookreviews 🐦 X: @quickbookrevie3 🦋 Bluesky: quickbookreviews Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this insider episode of Quick Book Reviews, Philippa is joined by returning guest Alison Barrow, PR Director at Transworld (Penguin Random House), to answer a brilliant listener question about book marketing, ARCs, and social media influence. If you’ve ever wondered: Why do some books dominate Instagram and BookTok?How do publishers decide which books get major promotion?Are ARC reviews always honest?Do great books get overlooked?…this episode pulls back the curtain on the real publishing ecosystem. WHAT YOU’LL DISCOVERHow publishers choose their “lead titles”The truth about ARCs (Advance Reader Copies) and influencer marketingWhy you keep seeing the same books on InstagramHow word-of-mouth, bookshops, and libraries still shape successThe balance between authentic reviews and publisher relationshipsWhy some incredible books quietly build audiences over timeBOOKS MENTIONEDWhatever Happened to Madeline Stone – Louise O’NeillMars One – Charlotte RobinsonThe Ending Writes Itself – Evelyn ClarkeIt's Not What You Think – Claire MackintoshElizabeth & Marilyn – Julie Owen MoylanThe Wreck – Lizzie StewartSlings & Arrows – Nick McLachlanLISTENER QUESTION OF THE WEEKA thoughtful question from Johanne sparks an honest discussion about: Social media book promotionAuthenticity vs visibilityWhether “hyped” books can still be trustedABOUT OUR GUESTAlison Barrow is PR Director at Transworld (part of Penguin Random House UK), working with global bestselling authors and shaping major publishing campaigns. Article mentioned in The Bookseller: https://www.thebookseller.com/comment/events-not-a-campaign-solution JOIN THE CONVERSATIONGot a question for Alison? Email: [email protected] LOVE THE SHOW?If you enjoy Quick Book Reviews, don’t forget to: Follow / SubscribeLeave a reviewShare with a fellow book loverCOMING NEXTMore author interviews, book reviews (no spoilers!), and insider publishing chat every week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Quick Book Reviews, Philippa Hall shares a mix of book recommendations, honest reviews, and practical tips for getting out of a reading slump. Philippa also shares her experience appearing on BBC Breakfast and behind-the-scenes of recording while unwell (powered by Vonia and sheer determination!). Featured Books ReviewedThe Drowning Place – Sarah Hilary ⭐ (highly recommended, potential book of the year)Solitary Agents – David Goodman ⭐ (thriller/spy crossover, gripping and accessible)Operation Bounce House – Matt DinnimanLook What You Made Me Do – John LanchesterReading Slump Fix: Philippa’s TipsIf you’re struggling to read or feeling stuck in a reading slump, Philippa shares what worked for her: Take a break from reading (it will come back!)Try a different format (audiobooks, graphic novels, poetry)Re-read a favourite bookLimit your choices (pick a small stack and commit)Visit a bookshop or library for inspirationDon’t panic — reading slumps are normalBooks That Helped Philippa Out of a Reading SlumpThe Wreck – Lizzie StewartSlings and Arrows – Nick McLachlanA Family Matter – Claire LynchThese three books completely reignited her love of reading. Follow Quick Book Reviews for book recommendations, author interviews, and weekly podcast episodes. 📧 Email: [email protected] 📸 Instagram & Threads: @quick_book_reviews 🎵 TikTok: @quickbookreviews 🐦 X: @quickbookrevie3 🦋 Bluesky: quickbookreviews Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

J.P. Delaney joins Philippa to talk about his latest psychological thriller, The Move — a tense, unsettling story about a dream home that turns into a nightmare. We talk about: The inspiration behind The Move and the emotional pull of houses and “home”Why this novel steps away from tech-driven thrillersWriting routines, plotting, and the importance of rewritingObsession, truth, and the psychology behind his charactersJ.P. also shares what he’s been reading: Daisy Darker, Sometimes I Lie and Beautiful Ugly by Alice FeeneyThe Broken Afternoon by Simon MasonThe Elegance of the Hedgehog by Muriel BarberyIn Her Defence by Philippa Manica — a standout courtroom thriller he highly recommendsPlus: writing in beautiful locations, why Starbucks is his worst nightmare, and the surprising snack (not biscuits) that fuels his writing. Perfect for fans of twisty psychological thrillers and fast-paced, high-concept fiction. Follow Quick Book Reviews for more author interviews and spoiler-free book chat. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bestselling thriller writer Clare Mackintosh joins Philippa to talk about her gripping new novel It’s Not What You Think— packed with jaw-dropping twists. We cover: How Clare creates unforgettable plot twistsWriting habits, pressure & her next very spicy thrillerDream writing spots (and total nightmares!)Plus, quick-fire reviews of: My Friends by Fredrik Backman – emotional, funny, unforgettableMrs Spy by M J Robotham– smart, fun spy fictionSupercrash: How to Hijack the Global Economy by Darryl Cunningham– sharp and eye-openingCaller Unknown by Gillian McAllister - Out soon!And: Kindle vs Kobo — which wins? Love books? Hit follow and don’t miss an episode! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Part 2 of this special two part episode. Today I’m joined by the publicity team behind The Ending Writes Itself—Philippa Cotton and Becky Mansell from HQ—to go behind the scenes of one of the most inventive book campaigns in recent years. We talk about: How early publicity gets involved in acquiring a bookBuilding a campaign around secrecy and intrigueManaging (and protecting) a major author revealThe viral buzz, wild guesses, and reader engagementWhat worked—and what they’d do differentlyThe realities of publishing behind the scenesPlus—Bloody Scotland, proof drops, influencers, campaign chaos (including that wifi moment), and answers to the authors’ own questions. If you enjoyed Part 1 with V. E. Schwab and Cat Clarke, this is the perfect companion episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A special early episode for the bank holiday weekend. In Part 1, I’m joined by the authors behind The Ending Writes Itself—V. E. Schwab and Cat Clarke—writing together as Evelyn Clarke. We talk about: The secret behind their hidden identityHow this ambitious collaboration came togetherWriting a sharp, funny satire of the publishing worldThe realities (and absurdities) of being an author todayTheir unique co-writing processPlus—Bloody Scotland book festival, Stephen King, FOMO in publishing, and the joy (and chaos) of keeping a literary secret. Part 2 drops tomorrow, featuring the publicity team behind this standout campaign. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s a crime-packed episode of Quick Book Reviews  Philippa is back with six crime and thriller recommendations—including bestselling psychological suspense, twisty mysteries, and edge-of-your-seat reads—plus a behind-the-scenes interview with the Festival Director of one of the UK’s biggest crime events. In This EpisodeA stack of must-read crime thrillers (out now + upcoming releases)A surprising turnaround on Frieda McFadden A standout read from Claire DouglasFestival insider chat with Lizzie Curl from Capital Crime FestivalPublishing insights, book recommendations & festival gossipBooks FeaturedRecently Read & Reviewed: Dear Debbie – Frieda McFaddenWant to Know a Secret? – Frieda McFaddenThe Family Friend – Claire DouglasAlso Mentioned (Out Now / New Releases): The Move – J.P. DelaneyI Spy – C. M. EwanIt’s Not What You Think – Clare MackintoshInterview: Capital Crime FestivalPhilippa chats to Lizzie Curl about: What really goes into planning Capital Crime FestivalBig author names (including Lee Child)How the festival attracts new readersBehind-the-scenes challenges & surprisesWhy crime fiction fans shouldn’t miss itHeld in London, this reader-voted, author-packed festival is a must for crime lovers. Book here: https://www.capitalcrime.org/ticketsPlus…A mix-up involving “AI”Kindle Unlimited vs Kobo thoughts (more next week!)And the ultimate question: what’s the best biscuit for reading? Perfect For Fans Of:Psychological thrillersFast-paced crime fictionBook festivals & author eventsNo-spoiler book recommendationsFollow, rate & review to support the podcast and never miss a book recommendation! Email Philippa at [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the Quick Book Reviews Podcast — the podcast featuring author interviews and book reviews with no spoilers. In this episode Philippa shares 10 new books she’s excited to read this month, covering everything from gripping psychological thrillers and crime fiction to literary fiction and historical drama. If you're looking for new books to add to your reading list, this episode is packed with brilliant recommendations and upcoming releases. Books mentioned in this episodeWhen I Kill You – B. A. Paris A chilling psychological thriller about secrets, suspicion and the terrifying feeling of being watched. How to Get Away With Murder – Rebecca Phillipson A darkly compelling crime novel about a mysterious manual for aspiring serial killers and the detective determined to uncover the truth. The Arc – Haruo Yuki A tense survival thriller in which hikers trapped in a flooding bunker must decide who will be left behind. Dead Heat – Sabine Durrant A sun-drenched Greek summer turns dark as jealousy, secrets and suspicion simmer among friends. Unreliable Narrator – Araminta Hall When a woman sees her life mirrored in a bestselling novel, the line between truth and fiction begins to blur. Kin – Tayari Jones A powerful story of friendship, family and identity set against the backdrop of the American civil rights movement. Whidby – T Kira Madden A gripping literary thriller exploring justice, revenge and the long shadow of trauma. Lady Tremaine – Rachel Hockenhauser A fascinating re-imagining of the Cinderella story told from the perspective of the infamous stepmother. First to Finish – Rebecca J. Caffery A high-speed romance set in the world of Formula racing where competition and chemistry collide. Meet the Newmans – Jennifer Niven A sweeping novel set in 1960s America about fame, family secrets and the changing world of television. Follow Quick Book Reviews for book recommendations, author interviews, and weekly podcast episodes. 📧 Email: [email protected] 📸 Instagram & Threads: @quick_book_reviews 🎵 TikTok: @quickbookreviews 🐦 X: @quickbookrevie3 🦋 Bluesky: quickbookreviews Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Discover 5 brilliant book recommendations plus publishing insider secrets. PR Director Alison Barrow reveals the truth about bestseller lists, book tours and how books really succeed. ⏱ Timestamped Show Notes00:00 – Welcome to Quick Book Reviews 01:15 – Philippa introduces today’s five standout books 02:10 – This Story Might Save Your Life by Tiffany Crum 05:40 – Gone for Good by Sarah Crossan 09:30 – The Book of Doors by Gareth Brown 14:20 – The Cursed Road by Laura McCluskey 18:30 – Growing Brave by Donna Ashworth 22:45 – Interview begins with Alison Barrow, PR Director at Transworld Publishers 24:10 – Books Alison is currently promoting • How to Get Away With Murder • A Far‑Flung Life 29:15 – The reality of bestseller lists 32:40 – How subscription book boxes influence charts 36:00 – Slow-burn bestsellers and long-tail success 39:30 – Books Alison has loved recently • The Things We Never Say • Witch Trial • The Barbecue at Number Nine • California Gold 48:10 – Listener question: Should authors ask for a book tour? 52:20 – How book tours are funded 55:10 – Typical book event sales conversion rates 58:40 – Alison shares an update on writing her own novel 1:02:30 – What it’s like being both publicist and author 1:05:30 – Philippa wraps up and previews the next episode Email your questions herel: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Quick Book Reviews, Philippa talks to author Claire Leslie Hall about her extraordinary novel Broken Country — a story of love, grief, longing, and the choices that shape our lives. Set against the backdrop of the English countryside, Broken Country begins with a shocking line: a man is dead — but who is he, and why? From there unfolds a deeply emotional story of a marriage under strain, a first love that returns, and a community divided. Claire shares the fascinating journey behind the book — from the moment of inspiration during lambing season in rural Dorset to the four-year writing process that included rewrites, abandoned drafts, and even stepping away to write another novel before returning to the story. Philippa and Claire discuss: The real-life moment that sparked the opening sceneWhy the novel took four years to write and dramatically changed along the wayHow the book blends genres — love story, mystery, and courtroom dramaWatching a murder trial at the Old Bailey for researchThe meaning behind the title Broken CountryThe evolution of the book’s cover designThe surreal moment the novel was chosen for Reese’s Book Club by Reese WitherspoonClaire’s background as a journalist and how it shaped her writing styleWhat readers might expect from her next novelPlus: dream writing sheds, nightmare writing locations, the joy (and terror) of editorial notes, and the all-important biscuit question. If you love character-driven fiction with emotional depth and a touch of suspense, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Books Mentioned Broken Country — Claire Leslie HallPictures of Him — Claire Leslie HallDays You Were Mine — Claire Leslie HallTo Kill a Mockingbird — by Harper LeeThe Amateur by Chris Bohjalian Odette Rising by Julianne EdwardsQuick Book Reviews features author interviews and book reviews with no spoilers. Follow Quick Book Reviews for book recommendations, author interviews, and weekly podcast episodes. 📧 Email: [email protected] 📸 Instagram & Threads: @quick_book_reviews 🎵 TikTok: @quickbookreviews 🐦 X: @quickbookrevie3 🦋 Bluesky: quickbookreviews Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bestselling author Patrick Gale joins Philippa on the Quick Book Reviews Podcast to discuss his powerful new novel Love Lane, plus brilliant escapist book recommendations including The Selection and An Offer from a Gentleman. In this episode of Quick Book Reviews, Philippa talks to bestselling author Patrick Gale about his moving and deeply personal new novel Love Lane. Patrick returns to the podcast to discuss the inspiration behind the book, how family history shaped the story, and why this emotional historical novel might be his most personal work yet. The conversation also dives into writing routines, fountain pens, notebooks, and the joy (and therapy!) of storytelling. If you enjoy powerful character-driven fiction, family sagas, and historical novels filled with heart, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Pre-order Love LanePatrick Gale’s beautiful new novel Love Lane publishes soon — and pre-orders really help authors and bookshops. Pre-order your copy here: 👉 https://uk.bookshop.org/a/16356/9781472257468 👉 https://www.waterstones.com/book/love-lane/patrick-gale/9781472257468 👉 https://www.foyles.co.uk/book/love-lane/patrick-gale/9781472257468 (Choose your favourite bookseller and support authors and bookshops!) In This EpisodePhilippa chats with Patrick Gale about the emotional story behind Love LaneWhy writing about family history can be both revealing and healingPatrick’s unusual writing routine — fountain pens, notebooks, and writing in inkThe real people who inspired the novelThe secrets hidden in family lettersDream writing locations vs nightmare writing locationsThe biscuit that powered the writing Books Reviewed in This EpisodePhilippa also shares some unexpected reading choices while recovering from illness — stepping away from crime fiction and diving into romance and escapist reads. Books discussed: The Selection by Kiera CassThe Elite by Kiera CassThe One by Kiera CassAn Offer from a Gentleman by Julia QuinnA New Start at the Happily Ever After Bookshop by Emma BennettExpect reality-TV-style royal romance, Bridgerton escapism, and the ultimate cosy bookshop novel set in Cornwall. About the PodcastQuick Book Reviews is the podcast where you get book recommendations, interviews with bestselling authors, and honest reviews — always spoiler-free. Hosted by Philippa, each episode helps you discover your next great read. Follow & Support the PodcastIf you enjoy the show: ⭐ Follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode ⭐ Leave a review on your podcast app ⭐ Share the episode with a fellow bookworm Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Quick Book Reviews, Philippa speaks to actor, comedian and author Andi Osho about her third novel, Most Wanted. Most Wanted explores the housing crisis through the story of a couple pushed to desperate measures in their attempt to get on the property ladder. Blending sharp comedy with serious social themes, the novel examines control, financial pressure, responsibility and how quickly one decision can spiral. In this thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation, Andi discusses: The real-life frustrations that inspired Most WantedWhy property fiction feels so timelyBalancing humour with serious themesWriting morally complex charactersPlanning twists versus letting the story evolveNarrating her own audiobooks and performing her charactersCreativity, acting and moving between genresPerimenopause, brain fog and recording in the boothThe realities of buying property in the UKWe also talk about scripts versus novels, the pressure of second and third books, and the biscuits that powered the writing process. If you enjoy fiction that reflects real life, explores big social themes and still makes you laugh, this episode is for you. Most Wanted by Andi Osho is available now in hardback, ebook and audiobook. Follow Quick Book Reviews for book recommendations, author interviews, and weekly podcast episodes. 📧 Email: [email protected] 📸 Instagram & Threads: @quick_book_reviews 🎵 TikTok: @quickbookreviews 🐦 X: @quickbookrevie3 🦋 Bluesky: quickbookreviews Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Full programme and booking information: https://www.hayfestival.com/hay-on-wye/home Planning a visit to the Hay Festival this year? In this special episode of Quick Book Reviews, Philippa travels to Hay-on-Wye to speak with festival organisers Heather Salisbury and Jacqueline Hewer about the exciting new programme. Discover: • The brand-new Crime Day • A fantasy and romantasy focus for 2026 • Celebrity readers sharing their “Life in Books” • Debut author showcases • Over 400 events celebrating books and ideas Plus the guests reveal the authors they’re most excited about — including Emma Thompson, Bear Grylls, Elizabeth Strout and Val McDermid. And yes… the Hay Festival biscuit debate returns. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Quick Book Reviews, Philippa speaks to bestselling crime author Nadine Matheson about her gripping new novel The Shadow Carver, the latest instalment in the Inspector Henley series. We discuss: Writing dark crime fiction with legal authenticityHow her background in criminal law shapes her storytellingThe emotional toll of writing morally complex charactersBuilding long-running crime series readers can’t quitWhy readers are drawn to justice-driven thrillersPlus, Philippa shares thoughts on one of the most talked-about new psychological thrillers, Room 706, and what makes it such a compulsive listen on audio. If you love crime fiction, legal thrillers, police procedurals, and intelligent psychological suspense, this episode is for you. Follow Quick Book Reviews for book recommendations, author interviews, and weekly podcast episodes. 📧 Email: [email protected] 📸 Instagram & Threads: @quick_book_reviews 🎵 TikTok: @quickbookreviews 🐦 X: @quickbookrevie3 🦋 Bluesky: quickbookreviews Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.