Quick Book Reviews with Philippa Hall

Philippa Hall
  • 4.9 (87)
  • BOOKS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Quick Book Reviews is your weekly companion for spoiler-free book reviews, author interviews, and reading recommendations — with biscuits, insider information, and some honest enthusiasm. Every Monday and Friday, host Philippa Hall brings you: No-spoiler reviews of new and upcoming books across all genres In-depth interviews with bestselling and breakthrough authors Reading tips, trends & news from the world of books A warm, welcoming style (and yes… biscuits ) Whether you’re building your TBR list, discover new voices, or love hearing authors talk about their craft, Quick Book Reviews is the podcast for curious readers and book lovers. Subscribe for honest recommendations, author stories, and the joy of reading — one episode at a time. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    Jo Callaghan on Body of Lies | The Final Kat and Locke Thriller

    Jo Callaghan joins Philippa to talk about Body of Lies — the gripping fourth and final Kat Frank and AIDE Lock thriller. We talk about: Why this series ends with book fourThe emotional challenge of writing the final Kat and Locke storyAI, humanity, grief, and what makes us humanPlot twists, rewrites, and bringing a series to a powerful closeJo also shares what she’s been reading: Please Help Me by Gytha Lodge — a tense, high-concept crime thrillerEden Falls by Ajay Chowdhury — a smart, ambitious sci-fi thrillerThe Correspondent (recommended after Philippa’s chat with Alison Barrow)After You’d Gone by Maggie O’Farrell — a powerful love storyRunning and Jumping by Stephen Keady — an unexpectedly fascinating dive into elite athleticsPlus, Jo reveals her ideal writing conditions (hint: it’s all about uninterrupted time) and the very specific cheese-and-biscuit combination that fuels her writing. Perfect for fans of smart crime fiction, emotional thrillers, and thought-provoking mysteries. Follow Quick Book Reviews for more author interviews and spoiler-free book chat. Pre-order Body Of Lies here: https://www.waterstones.com/book/body-of-lies/jo-callaghan/9781398535565 https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/body-of-lies-the-crime-thriller-of-2026-from-the-award-winning-and-sunday-times-bestselling-author-of-in-the-blink-of-an-eye-jo-callaghan/cbbcf2c82f6b5367?ean=9781398535565&next=t https://amzn.eu/d/0bmnarRm Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    46 min

  2. 6 DAYS AGO

    Sarah Hilary Interview: The Drowning Place + Reviews of Mars One + The Faraway Inn

    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: quickbookreviews@outlook.com 📸 Instagram & Threads: @quick_book_reviews 🎵 TikTok: @quickbookreviews 🐦 X: @quickbookrevie3 🦋 Bluesky: quickbookreviews Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    43 min

  3. 17 APR

    Publishing Secrets Revealed: How Book Marketing Really Works (with Transworld PR Director Alison Barrow)

    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: quickbookreviews@outlook.com 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.

    33 min

  4. 13 APR

    How I Got Out of a Reading Slump + 7 Book Reviews (Hits & Misses)

    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: quickbookreviews@outlook.com 📸 Instagram & Threads: @quick_book_reviews 🎵 TikTok: @quickbookreviews 🐦 X: @quickbookrevie3 🦋 Bluesky: quickbookreviews Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    20 min

  5. 10 APR

    J.P. Delaney on The Move | Psychological Thrillers, Twists and Writing Obsession

    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.

    31 min

  6. 6 APR

    Clare Mackintosh on It’s Not What You Think, Plot Twists, Thriller Secrets & Book Reviews

    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.

    45 min

  7. 2 APR

    The Ending Writes Itself Campaign with HQ Publicity Team – Part 2

    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.

    35 min

  8. 1 APR

    The Ending Writes Itself with V.E. Schwab & Cat Clarke (Evelyn Clarke) – Part 1

    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.

    40 min
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4.9
out of 5
87 Ratings

About

Quick Book Reviews is your weekly companion for spoiler-free book reviews, author interviews, and reading recommendations — with biscuits, insider information, and some honest enthusiasm. Every Monday and Friday, host Philippa Hall brings you: No-spoiler reviews of new and upcoming books across all genres In-depth interviews with bestselling and breakthrough authors Reading tips, trends & news from the world of books A warm, welcoming style (and yes… biscuits ) Whether you’re building your TBR list, discover new voices, or love hearing authors talk about their craft, Quick Book Reviews is the podcast for curious readers and book lovers. Subscribe for honest recommendations, author stories, and the joy of reading — one episode at a time. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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