Quick Book Reviews with Philippa Hall

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.

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 quickbookreviews@outlook.com 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. ParisA chilling psychological thriller about secrets, suspicion and the terrifying feeling of being watched.How to Get Away With Murder – Rebecca PhillipsonA darkly compelling crime novel about a mysterious manual for aspiring serial killers and the detective determined to uncover the truth.The Arc – Haruo YukiA tense survival thriller in which hikers trapped in a flooding bunker must decide who will be left behind.Dead Heat – Sabine DurrantA sun-drenched Greek summer turns dark as jealousy, secrets and suspicion simmer among friends.Unreliable Narrator – Araminta HallWhen a woman sees her life mirrored in a bestselling novel, the line between truth and fiction begins to blur.Kin – Tayari JonesA powerful story of friendship, family and identity set against the backdrop of the American civil rights movement.Whidby – T Kira MaddenA gripping literary thriller exploring justice, revenge and the long shadow of trauma.Lady Tremaine – Rachel HockenhauserA fascinating re-imagining of the Cinderella story told from the perspective of the infamous stepmother.First to Finish – Rebecca J. CafferyA high-speed romance set in the world of Formula racing where competition and chemistry collide.Meet the Newmans – Jennifer NivenA 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: quickbookreviews@outlook.com📸 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 Reviews01:15 – Philippa introduces today’s five standout books02:10 – This Story Might Save Your Life by Tiffany Crum05:40 – Gone for Good by Sarah Crossan09:30 – The Book of Doors by Gareth Brown14:20 – The Cursed Road by Laura McCluskey18:30 – Growing Brave by Donna Ashworth22:45 – Interview begins with Alison Barrow, PR Director at Transworld Publishers24:10 – Books Alison is currently promoting• How to Get Away With Murder• A Far‑Flung Life29:15 – The reality of bestseller lists32:40 – How subscription book boxes influence charts36:00 – Slow-burn bestsellers and long-tail success39:30 – Books Alison has loved recently• The Things We Never Say• Witch Trial• The Barbecue at Number Nine• California Gold48:10 – Listener question: Should authors ask for a book tour?52:20 – How book tours are funded55:10 – Typical book event sales conversion rates58:40 – Alison shares an update on writing her own novel1:02:30 – What it’s like being both publicist and author1:05:30 – Philippa wraps up and previews the next episodeEmail your questions herel: quickbookreviews@outlook.com 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 MentionedBroken 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: quickbookreviews@outlook.com📸 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: quickbookreviews@outlook.com📸 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/homePlanning 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 ideasPlus 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: quickbookreviews@outlook.com📸 Instagram & Threads:@quick_book_reviews🎵 TikTok: @quickbookreviews🐦 X: @quickbookrevie3🦋 Bluesky: quickbookreviews Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Six Friends, £1.6 Million & One Fatal Decision – T.M. Logan on The WeekendIn this episode of Quick Book Reviews, Philippa speaks to bestselling author T.M. Logan about his gripping new thriller The Weekend.When six friends discover £1.6 million hidden in a cave during a New Year getaway, one question changes everything: do you hand it in — or keep it?T.M. Logan discusses:The moral dilemma at the heart of The WeekendWhy “what would you do?” drives his thrillersWriting his 10th novel and the pressure of expectationsBeing dropped by his US publisher — and rebuildingHow TV adaptations have (or haven’t) changed his writingTurning personal fears into page-turning fictionThe craft of sustaining tensionIce hockey inspirations and hidden Easter eggsThe reality of publishing success and uncertaintyWe also talk about writing advice, perseverance, and why dark chocolate Hobnobs may (or may not) be a legitimate writing fuel.If you enjoy psychological thrillers, moral dilemmas and high-stakes fiction that feels frighteningly close to real life, this episode is for you.The Weekend by T.M. Logan is out now.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: quickbookreviewsT.M. Logan interviewThe Weekendpsychological thrillercrime fictionBritish thriller authorwriting processbestselling author interviewmoral dilemma thrillerTV adaptationspublishing industry insight Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Quick Book Reviews, Philippa is joined by global bestselling author Lisa Jewell to discuss her paperback hit Don’t Let Him In and her brand new summer release It Could Have Been Her.Lisa talks candidly about writing morally complex characters, creating psychological tension without crossing credibility lines, and why her epilogues often carry the darkest revelations. She shares her unusual writing process — drafting without a plan, discovering twists late, and working at her kitchen table while the world carries on around her.The conversation also explores:The psychology of manipulation and trust in Don’t Let Him InWhy ordinary domestic settings can feel so sinisterThe dark premise behind It Could Have Been HerWhether modern thriller readers are harder to surpriseThe difference between a twist and a revealThe realities of building a long-term writing careerPublishing pressure, branding, and reader expectationsAudiobooks, reading slumps, and life as a bestselling novelistLisa also reflects on how her career has evolved, what she would (and wouldn’t) change, and the biscuit that powered the writing of her latest novels.Alongside the interview, Philippa reviews:Intelligence by Robert NewmanStrange Buildings by UketsuA War of Wyverns by S. F. WilliamsonA wide-ranging and honest conversation with one of the most successful voices in contemporary psychological suspense. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Quick Book Reviews, Philippa is joined by bestselling author Tim Weaver to talk about his gripping new novel The Lost Women, the fifteenth book in the much-loved David Raker series.Tim reflects on reaching a major milestone as a writer and explains how he balances writing for long-time fans while ensuring every book can be read as a standalone. He also shares the chilling real-world inspirations behind The Lost Women, including a vanished documentary crew and an almost unimaginable hospital disappearance.During the conversation, Tim discusses:Writing the 15th David Raker novel and how the series has evolvedWhy empathy, not angst, defines his central characterCreating twists that genuinely surprise readersWriting thrillers that balance darkness with emotional heartWhy he avoids chasing trends and market expectationsHow the publishing landscape has changed over the last 15 yearsThe rise of audiobooks and how listening has transformed his own reading lifeThe challenges of social media for authorsWhy characters matter more than ever in crime fictionTim also reveals his ideal (and nightmare) writing environments, reflects on reader pressure around plot twists, and shares the biscuits that powered the writing and editing of The Lost Women.A conversation with one of crime fiction’s most consistent and compelling voices.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.

In this special episode of Quick Book Reviews, Philippa explores a bold claim making waves across the book world: are wearable e-readers really the future of reading?After researching the much-talked-about SOL wearable e-reader glasses, Philippa shares her scepticism, the surprising reactions from early adopters, and asks listeners whether immersive tech could change how we read forever.Before that, returning guest Alison Barrow, PR Director at Transworld, answers another listener question and offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at publishing today, including:The standout debut novels to watch right nowWhy audiobooks are booming and reshaping the industrySpring publishing trends, from romantic fantasy to horrorHow bestseller charts fail to reflect modern reading habitsHonest advice for anyone starting a career in publishingThe importance of positivity, curiosity, and commercial awarenessAlison also champions under-the-radar books she believes deserve far more attention and discusses why some extraordinary novels slip through the cracks.A thoughtful, wide-ranging conversation about books, trends, careers, and the future of how we read.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.

In this episode of Quick Book Reviews, Philippa is joined by bestselling author Will Dean to discuss his haunting psychological thriller Adrift — a novel that explores control, isolation, and the quiet terror of living with someone who manipulates from the shadows.Will talks candidly about his off-grid life in the Swedish woods, why he writes his first drafts in intense six-week bursts, and how emotional stories like Adrift can take years to fully realise.Together, they discuss:Writing while living off grid and why isolation fuels creativityWhy Will avoids the publishing “noise” and trendsHow Adrift took five years to complete, despite a fast first draftWriting claustrophobic tension without exhausting the readerThe psychology of control, gaslighting, and quiet manipulationWriting from a child’s point of view and the emotional toll it takesWhy Will leaves much of the violence off the pageThe fear and excitement of starting a new novelHow rereading favourite books shapes his writingThe current reading crisis and why encouraging children to read matters more than everWill also shares what he’s currently reading, why he rereads authors like Shirley Jackson and Sarah Waters, and answers the most important question of all: what powered the writing of Adrift (spoiler: frozen dates, not biscuits).A thoughtful, intense, and revealing conversation about storytelling, fear, and the importance of noticing unheard people in unseen places.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.

n this powerful and deeply honest episode of Quick Book Reviews, Philippa is joined by award-winning author Catriona Ward to discuss her haunting new novel Nowhere Burning.This conversation goes far beyond the book. Catriona opens up about writing through profound personal grief, why she cries while writing, and how love — especially between siblings — can become both a source of salvation and destruction. Together, they explore childhood trauma, abandoned places, hostile landscapes, and the unsettling idea that some environments remember what happened there.They also dive into:The origins of Nowhere Burning and its unsettling settingWhy Catriona prefers the word reveal over plot twistHorror, literary fiction, and why genre labels often miss the pointThe worst writing advice Catriona has ever receivedCreative writing courses, resilience, and finding your voiceWhy “dark” fiction makes people uncomfortable — and why that mattersBooks Catriona is reading and recommending right nowBiscuits, dunking rules, and the surprising truth about stroopwafelsAlongside the interview, Philippa also reviews:The Favorites by Layne FargoBody of Lies by Jo Callaghan — the gripping finale to the AI crime seriesFollow 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.

In this reflective and refreshingly honest episode of Quick Book Reviews, Philippa is joined by well-known book influencer and paramedic Jules Swain for a conversation that goes far beyond algorithms, star ratings, and reading targets.What begins as a discussion about social media platforms — from X and Instagram to BookTok — quickly becomes a deeper exploration of burnout, pressure, and reclaiming reading as a joy rather than a performance.Together, Philippa and Jules talk about:Stepping back from social media and why it can be healthyThe pressure to post, review, and read “enough” booksWhy it’s okay to DNF a book — and stop feeling guiltyStar ratings, negative reviews, and whether every book needs an opinionBookTok hype, genre oversaturation, and discovering fantasy unexpectedlyPhysical books vs e-readers vs audiobooksBuilding real-life book communities and local book clubsReading as escapism after emotionally demanding workJules also shares her most-loved books, her perfect reading day, thoughts on Goodreads vs StoryGraph, and settles the all-important biscuit debate (custard creams, for the record).A calming, thoughtful episode for anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed by bookish noise — and a reminder that reading is allowed to be slow, personal, and joyful.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.