In this episode of In My Good Books, Susie sits down with author Emma Christie to discuss her tense and emotional psychological thriller, Watch Your Back. The novel follows Jo, a woman working in a charity shop who’s hiding a devastating secret.
When a mysterious box of letters from prison arrives at the shop, Jo is torn between uncovering the truth and keeping the past buried. But before she can decide, the letters are stolen, sparking a suspenseful search that forces her to confront everything she’s tried to forget.
Emma shares how her own life experiences shape the emotional authenticity of her writing, and how she crafts stories filled with mystery, moral tension, and human vulnerability.
Follow Emma: https://www.instagram.com/theemmachristie/
Buy Watch Your Back: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/watch-your-back-a-pacy-gripping-thriller-with-an-unbelievable-twist-emma-christie/330ddec0b75c3e31?ean=9781802794670&next=t
Books recommended in this episode:
The Cracked Mirror by Chris Brookmyre: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/the-cracked-mirror-the-award-winning-brain-twisting-mystery-chris-brookmyre/d6c6f3e15d70fb7e?ean=9780349145815&next=t
The Unspeakable Acts of Zina Pavlou by Eleni Kyriacou: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/the-unspeakable-acts-of-zina-pavlou-eleni-kyriacou/7388899?ean=9781837930364&next=t
In this episode of In My Good Books, Susie chats with Alison Stockham, author of the gripping psychological thriller Let Her Go. Together, they explore the fragile boundaries of friendship, trust, and betrayal and the real-life experience that inspired Alison’s latest novel.
Susie and Alison also discuss the craft of writing psychological thrillers - from creating characters with hidden motives to constructing scenes that change meaning on a second read. Alison shares her practical approach to plotting, using outlines and spreadsheets to balance tension, pacing, and emotional truth.
If you’ve ever lost a friend, questioned loyalty, or loved a twisty thriller with heart, this episode will stay with you.
Follow Alison online: https://www.instagram.com/astockhamauthor/
Buy Let Her Go: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/let-her-go-alison-stockham/1d8c15739ab645b1?ean=9781835615898&next=t
Books recommended in this episode:
59 Minutes by Holly Seddon: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/59-minutes-the-most-unmissable-and-heart-wrenching-what-would-you-do-thriller-of-2025-holly-seddon/570b893b4b9897e9?ean=9781398709492&next=t
The Sea Child by Linda Wilgus: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/the-sea-child-linda-wilgus/7877135?ean=9781398538252&next=t
In this episode of In My Good Books, Susie chats with author Zoe Rankin about her stunning debut novel, The Vanishing Place - a haunting literary thriller set in the wild, untamed landscapes of New Zealand.
Zoe reveals how the dramatic setting became almost a character in its own right, shaping the tone, tension, and psychology of her protagonist, Effie, a woman as strong as she is stubborn. Together, Susie and Zoe explore the dark themes, emotional depth, and psychological suspense that run through the novel.
They also discuss Zoe’s writing process, from the six-month journey of her first draft to how she draws inspiration from her childhood, personal experiences, and sense of place. You’ll hear how she chooses her character names, what drives her to write, and the books and authors that inspire her most.
This episode is perfect for fans of literary fiction, psychological thrillers, and atmospheric mysteries who love hearing how an author builds tension, emotion, and place into every page.
Follow Zoe: https://www.instagram.com/zoerankinwrites/
You can buy The Vanishing Place here: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/the-vanishing-place-zoe-rankin/7843756?ean=9781805227373&next=t
Books recommended in this episode:
Aue by Becky Manawatu: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/aue-becky-manawatu/6879089?ean=9781914484674&next=t
The Secrets of Stangers by Charity Norman: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/the-secrets-of-strangers-charity-norman/5254995?ean=9781911630418&next=t
The Polite Act of Drowning by Charlene Hurtubise: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/the-polite-act-of-drowning-charleen-hurtubise/e8797b76678fc5b3?ean=9781804184912&next=t
In this episode, Susie chats with Lisa Timoney, who also writes as Kate Storey and Naomi Williams, about the creative juggling act of writing across three genres.
Lisa reveals how each of her author identities explores a different side of her storytelling: heartfelt family dramas as Lisa Timoney, uplifting book-club fiction as Kate Storey, and dark, twisty psychological thrillers as Naomi Williams.
They discuss how psychology, structure, and technology influence modern storytelling, why Lisa thrives on meticulous planning, and how she manages to publish multiple books a year while keeping her creative spark alive.
If you love hearing about the craft of writing, the discipline behind creative success, and the thrill of a great twist, this episode is for you.
Following Lisa on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/lisatimoneywrites/
Books recommended in this episode:
Bring the House Down by Charlotte Runcie
No Safe Place by Hannah Brennan
Dissection of A Murder by Jo Murray
In this episode, Susie chats with book reviewer Susan Lobban, known on Instagram as @uptoolatereading, about the irresistible joy of staying up late with a great book.
Susan shares how her love of nighttime reading began, why her Kindle Paperwhite has been a game-changer, and the comforting ritual of getting lost in a story long after everyone else has gone to bed. Together, Susie and Susan explore the bliss, and the bleary-eyed mornings, that come from not being able to put a good book down.
If you’ve ever told yourself “just one more chapter”, this episode is for you.
Find Susan on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/up.too.late.reading/
Books recommended in this episode:
Fierce Kingdom by Gin Philips
The Last Thing To Burn by Will Dean
The Place Where They Buried Your Heart by Christina Henry
Scenes From A Tragedy by Carole Hailey
In this episode of In My Good Books, Susie chats with Sam Frances, crime writer and author of One By One. Drawing on her real-life experience in policing, Sam brings authenticity and humour to her writing - and to her detective, DS Alice Washington, a millennial police officer juggling professional pressures and personal challenges.
Set against the backdrop of a music festival and a rock band’s chaotic reunion, One By One explores ambition, loyalty, and the fine line between justice and truth. Sam talks about crafting believable female detectives, the influence of her career on her storytelling, and the importance of editing, feedback, and perseverance on the road to publication.
The conversation also touches on how she finds lightness in dark stories, her favourite crime writers, and what’s next for DS Alice Washington.
If you love character-driven crime fiction, music-infused mysteries, and stories that blend grit with humour, this episode is not to be missed.
You can buy One By One Here: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/one-by-one-a-completely-unputdownable-crime-thriller-sam-frances/7928359?ean=9781035418442&next=t
Books recommended in this episode:
Wet Paint by Chloe Ashby: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/wet-paint-a-blistering-story-stylist-chloe-ashby/7277891?ean=9781398703001&next=t
Three Hours by Rosamund Lupton: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/three-hours-rosamund-lupton/6951161?ean=9780241374511&next=t
The Last Party by Clare Mackintosh: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/the-last-party-clare-mackintosh/7384284?ean=9780751577136&next=t
In this episode of In My Good Books, Susie chats with Chloe Michelle Howarth, author of the novel Heap Earth Upon It. Set in 1960s rural Ireland, Chloe’s book is a deeply moving exploration of family, longing, and queer identity, told through the lives of four siblings navigating love, loss, and the constraints of their time.
Chloe opens up about her creative process, from writing multiple drafts to find the right perspective, to the influence of Irish culture and the romanticism of place in her storytelling. She also discusses the vital role of the Arts Council in supporting Irish artists and shares her thoughts on the importance of authentic queer representation in literature.
Whether you’re a reader drawn to literary fiction, Irish storytelling, or queer narratives, this episode offers a warm, honest look into how Chloe builds emotionally rich worlds and unforgettable characters.
You can buy Heap Earth Upon It here: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/heap-earth-upon-it-chloe-michelle-howarth/7c8017b243e972c1?ean=9780857309051&next=t
You can find out more about Chloe on her website: https://www.chloemichellehowarth.com/
Books recommended in this episode:
My Husband by Maud Ventura: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/my-husband-a-gripping-read-sunday-times-maud-ventura/7599016?ean=9781804946220&next=t
An Irish Folklore Treasury by John Creedon: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/an-irish-folklore-treasury-a-selection-of-old-stories-ways-and-wisdom-from-the-schools-collection-john-creedon/7063652?ean=9780717194223&next=t
Young Mungo by Douglas Stuart: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/young-mungo-the-no-1-sunday-times-bestseller-douglas-stuart/6240346?ean=9781529068788&next=t
In this episode of In My Good Books, Susie chats with Ross Montgomery about his bold leap from writing award-winning children’s books to crafting his first adult crime novel, The Murder at World’s End.
Set against the backdrop of the Halley’s Comet Panic of 1910, the book blends historical detail, scientific intrigue, and a gripping locked-room mystery that will keep readers guessing until the final page.
Ross shares the inspiration behind his unlikely detective duo, the meticulous research that went into recreating the early 20th century, and the lessons he learned transitioning from children’s to adult fiction. They also discuss the craft of plotting, the challenge of maintaining suspense, and how juggling multiple projects can actually fuel creativity.
Whether you’re a crime fiction enthusiast, a historical fiction fan, or an aspiring writer curious about balancing different genres, this episode is packed with insights, humour, and a touch of comet-inspired mystery.
You can buy The Murder At World's End here: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/the-murder-at-world-s-end-ross-montgomery/7823726?ean=9780241766163&next=t
Books recommended in this episode:
The Name of the Rose by Umberto Eco
The Honjin Murders by Seishi Yokomizo
The Last Murder At the End of the World by Stuart Turton
In this episode of In My Good Books, host Susie Green sits down with Nikki Allen, a therapist turned novelist, to discuss her debut thriller The Hideaway, a gripping, atmospheric story set in the lush jungles of Costa Rica.
Nikki shares how her background in therapy shaped her approach to character development, exploring themes of vulnerability, toxic wellness culture, and the illusion of control.
Susie and Nikki dive into the power of a strong prologue, the unconventional road to publication, and how real-life experiences inspired The Hideaway’s cast of flawed, fascinating characters.
Listeners will also get a sneak peek at Nikki’s next novel, a high-stakes thriller set on a super yacht in the South Pacific, plus her reflections on appearing at the Harrogate Book Festival and the whirlwind of debut author life.
Whether you’re a fan of psychological thrillers, destination fiction, or stories that challenge our obsession with self-improvement, this episode is a must-listen.
You can buy The Hideaway here: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/the-hideaway-nikki-allen/7758800?ean=9781035071975&next=t
Books recommended in this episode:
The Last Thing to Burn by Will Dean
Yellowface by RF Kuang
They Had It Coming by Nikki Smith
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
L.V. Matthews, a psychological thriller author, discusses her latest novel 'To Love a Liar', which delves into the complexities of marriage, secrets, and betrayal. With a background in publishing, Liv shares her journey from industry insider to author, emphasizing the importance of character depth and research in her writing. The discussion also touches on the ethical implications of undercover police work, the impact of book clubs on an author's visibility, and her writing process.
Books recommended in this episode:
Undercover by Paul Lewis & Rob Evans
Small Town Girl by Donna MacLeod
Little Wing by Freya North
Fox by Joyce Carol Oates
The Death of Us by Abigail Dean
Little Eve, The Last House on Needless Street, and Sundial by Catriona Ward