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The Barbecue at No. 9
Not yet published
Expected 12 Feb 26FROM THE NUMBER ONE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLING AUTHOR OF THE LIST OF SUSPICIOUS THINGS . . .Set over 12 hours in 1985 the residents of Delmont Close are preparing a neighbourhood barbecue to watch the biggest music event in Live Aid. A day that will end having touched the lives of millions and changed the lives of all in Delmont Close.
Hosted by the Gordon family, Lydia whose idols are Princess Di and Delia Smith, is determined to put on a show that will impress all. As the neighbours flood in, all the secrets that have been kept locked tight come rushing out.
Rita, a new resident from Australia, harbours a shocking event in her past, Steve a young Falklands veteran battles his own demons, and Hanna, the Gordon's young teenage daughter prepares to flee to hide a shocking truth.
The Barbecue at No.9 explores the nature of family and friendship, who we were and how far we have come. Jennie Godfrey returns to her powerful theme of how we are more united in our humanity than divided by our differences. All written with Godfrey’s signature wit, warmth and bite and, if possible, The Barbecue at No.9 surpasses the power and emotional impact of The List of Suspicious Things.
Hosted by the Gordon family, Lydia whose idols are Princess Di and Delia Smith, is determined to put on a show that will impress all. As the neighbours flood in, all the secrets that have been kept locked tight come rushing out.
Rita, a new resident from Australia, harbours a shocking event in her past, Steve a young Falklands veteran battles his own demons, and Hanna, the Gordon's young teenage daughter prepares to flee to hide a shocking truth.
The Barbecue at No.9 explores the nature of family and friendship, who we were and how far we have come. Jennie Godfrey returns to her powerful theme of how we are more united in our humanity than divided by our differences. All written with Godfrey’s signature wit, warmth and bite and, if possible, The Barbecue at No.9 surpasses the power and emotional impact of The List of Suspicious Things.
Kindle Edition
Expected publication February 12, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
November 11, 2025
Two days before Live Aid in July 1985, Hanna’s mum asks her to post barbecue invitations to their neighbours in the close. Her mother, houseproud Lydia, wants to impress the residents (and her sister-in-law) of Delmont Close and she’s not known as Lady Di for nothing. Will the day pan out as she hopes or will it not be the perfection that she aspires to?
I love Jenny Godfrey's smash hit debut The List of Suspicious Things and it’s always a challenge to match the expectations of the follow-up. I’m pleased to say, she does a good job with this as I love the idea/premise of this novel in particular being set around the unforgettable concert. Personally, I’ll never forget Freddie Mercury‘s epic performance (who will?) but the author evocatively reminds me of other great acts of the day, utilising them very effectively as a backdrop to the turbulent events at the barbecue. The mid 80s are depicted well too, not just in the music/fashion etc, but in political events, not least the appalling famine in Africa.
The many and varied characters of Delmont Close are effectively conveyed as are the various issues that they are grappling with. As the day progresses and more people gather at number nine there are plenty of undercurrents and good dynamics between the characters. It becomes increasingly clear that there are a lot of issues and problems, some of which are serious and it serves as a good reminder that things are hidden behind glossy front doors and we can not always be aware of the truth that lies behind.
However, I find the novel takes a little while to get going, but once it does, I’m hooked. This is well worth a read.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to the publishers for the much appreciated early copy and return for an honest review.
I love Jenny Godfrey's smash hit debut The List of Suspicious Things and it’s always a challenge to match the expectations of the follow-up. I’m pleased to say, she does a good job with this as I love the idea/premise of this novel in particular being set around the unforgettable concert. Personally, I’ll never forget Freddie Mercury‘s epic performance (who will?) but the author evocatively reminds me of other great acts of the day, utilising them very effectively as a backdrop to the turbulent events at the barbecue. The mid 80s are depicted well too, not just in the music/fashion etc, but in political events, not least the appalling famine in Africa.
The many and varied characters of Delmont Close are effectively conveyed as are the various issues that they are grappling with. As the day progresses and more people gather at number nine there are plenty of undercurrents and good dynamics between the characters. It becomes increasingly clear that there are a lot of issues and problems, some of which are serious and it serves as a good reminder that things are hidden behind glossy front doors and we can not always be aware of the truth that lies behind.
However, I find the novel takes a little while to get going, but once it does, I’m hooked. This is well worth a read.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to the publishers for the much appreciated early copy and return for an honest review.
November 18, 2025
I think for those of us who loved Jennie's debut novel, The List of Suspicious Things, we all have high hopes for The Barbecue at No. 9. As an 80s child, discovering it was set mainly on the day of Live Aid, excited me even more.
No. 9 houses the Gordons. Lydia, who is very much a keeping-up-with-the-Joneses type and refuses to be known as "that family", decides to host a barbecue for all of their neighbours. Everything must be perfect, particularly because her brother-in-law and his wife have confirmed their attendance. However, as the day unfolds, not all goes according to plan and as the neighbours arrive and the party gets into full swing, secrets start to be revealed.
Jennie Godfrey has a great insight into character and all of the little foibles that make us human. She invokes a number of emotions and even managed to make me see the hidden soft side of one of the more staunch characters. It fully highlights that there is often a bigger fear in the thought of doing something, rather than the actual doing of it, and that those who care about you will always come through for you, no matter what.
The Barbecue at No. 9 is a wonderful exploration of human interactions and relationships (siblings, friendships, parents and lovers) with some surprising moments. As the colder weather approaches, it's the perfect book to hunker down with and be drawn into the drama and community of Delmont Close.
No. 9 houses the Gordons. Lydia, who is very much a keeping-up-with-the-Joneses type and refuses to be known as "that family", decides to host a barbecue for all of their neighbours. Everything must be perfect, particularly because her brother-in-law and his wife have confirmed their attendance. However, as the day unfolds, not all goes according to plan and as the neighbours arrive and the party gets into full swing, secrets start to be revealed.
Jennie Godfrey has a great insight into character and all of the little foibles that make us human. She invokes a number of emotions and even managed to make me see the hidden soft side of one of the more staunch characters. It fully highlights that there is often a bigger fear in the thought of doing something, rather than the actual doing of it, and that those who care about you will always come through for you, no matter what.
The Barbecue at No. 9 is a wonderful exploration of human interactions and relationships (siblings, friendships, parents and lovers) with some surprising moments. As the colder weather approaches, it's the perfect book to hunker down with and be drawn into the drama and community of Delmont Close.
October 5, 2025
I had high hopes for this one after falling in love with Jennie’s debut, and thank goodness it lived up to every one of my expectations! Yet again, she’s created a cast of characters who will stay with me long after I put the book down, and it’s another novel filled with kindness and community like I adore.
Whilst it’s definitely a character driven novel, there’s still plenty of drama and surprises to keep the reader hooked, and I loved the Live Aid 80s backdrop to the big day as all these events unfolded - I could absolutely picture all the outfits and hairdo’s 🤣
Is it too soon to say I can’t wait for her next book?! Without a doubt, a new favourite writer who I’ll read anything by!
Whilst it’s definitely a character driven novel, there’s still plenty of drama and surprises to keep the reader hooked, and I loved the Live Aid 80s backdrop to the big day as all these events unfolded - I could absolutely picture all the outfits and hairdo’s 🤣
Is it too soon to say I can’t wait for her next book?! Without a doubt, a new favourite writer who I’ll read anything by!
November 19, 2025
Another great read from Jennie. Full review to follow
October 31, 2025
Thanks to Jennie and Hutchinson Heinemann for the gifted proof of this title in return for an honest review.
This has to be the most anticipated second novel of any author at the moment. In my opinion, Jennie's debut novel - The List of Suspicious Things - was beyond words, and so to live up to that could have been a daunting and difficult talk. But she has more than met the challenge.
Where I think she excels the most is in her character creation. She has a gift for giving us relatable, recognisable, familiar characters across a wide range of ages, backgrounds and roles in the story. She's given us heroes and villains as it were, some trustworthy and others you're not quite sure of. Don't get me wrong, the plot is there, but for me, who prefers characters over plot, it is almost second to the characters; they are what hold this story together and what makes you invest in it. She's one of the best at characterisation, in my opinion.
It's another novel that is filled with love and friendship and the importance of a supportive community. It's about what you've done, what you haven't, wat you regret and what you wish for. She really makes it feel like a big family that the reader is immediately a part of.
I was eight years away from being born when Live Aid was on, but like everyone else I have since watched it many times and so I can almost get a feel for what it was like at the end. And Jennie has depicted it to the letter. It is perfect, like you're wrapped up within the fuss around the show, like you're the one sitting down ready to watch it. It's so nostalgic and echoes the 1980s perfectly, down to the hairstyles and the food and the décor.
Now, having not been around in the 80s, I can't say for sure it's accurate, but it reads as if it is. And I know Jennie was around in the 90s but still, the amount of research she would have had to do to get it so accurate, rom the brand of cigarettes to the once loved but forgotten about home gadgets.
It's very different but also similar to TLOST. It's similar in the sense that she has created this multi-layered, multi-character, community who are all not what they seem. But I found TLOST more of a thriller set in a contemporary space, whereas this is mostly told through conversation rather than action, you're not necessarily sure what the secrets are, it's all very hush hush. It's almost like you're a detective trying to look in the gaps that these characters create for you - it's very clever.
It's another one of those books that makes you question whether you should even try to write a book, because it will never been as good as this one.
You wonder how a book of this length can be told over just one day, surely it must get slow? But it doesn't. Somehow she's managed the pace of it perfectly.
I didn't want it to end at all. I felt the same way with TLOST. I flew through that and was then annoyed that I hadn't taken my time with it, but I've done exactly the same thing here. I couldn't help it. It's so fun and natural to read that you just disappear into this world and then all of a sudden you're finished and you want to start again.
I know she's only two books in, but I can say hand on heart that I will read everything she writes - even her grocery list if she'd let me. I sure hope she has a long writing career because I, and everyone else, needs her talent on their bookshelves.
Now all I need to know is, when is book three coming out?
This has to be the most anticipated second novel of any author at the moment. In my opinion, Jennie's debut novel - The List of Suspicious Things - was beyond words, and so to live up to that could have been a daunting and difficult talk. But she has more than met the challenge.
Where I think she excels the most is in her character creation. She has a gift for giving us relatable, recognisable, familiar characters across a wide range of ages, backgrounds and roles in the story. She's given us heroes and villains as it were, some trustworthy and others you're not quite sure of. Don't get me wrong, the plot is there, but for me, who prefers characters over plot, it is almost second to the characters; they are what hold this story together and what makes you invest in it. She's one of the best at characterisation, in my opinion.
It's another novel that is filled with love and friendship and the importance of a supportive community. It's about what you've done, what you haven't, wat you regret and what you wish for. She really makes it feel like a big family that the reader is immediately a part of.
I was eight years away from being born when Live Aid was on, but like everyone else I have since watched it many times and so I can almost get a feel for what it was like at the end. And Jennie has depicted it to the letter. It is perfect, like you're wrapped up within the fuss around the show, like you're the one sitting down ready to watch it. It's so nostalgic and echoes the 1980s perfectly, down to the hairstyles and the food and the décor.
Now, having not been around in the 80s, I can't say for sure it's accurate, but it reads as if it is. And I know Jennie was around in the 90s but still, the amount of research she would have had to do to get it so accurate, rom the brand of cigarettes to the once loved but forgotten about home gadgets.
It's very different but also similar to TLOST. It's similar in the sense that she has created this multi-layered, multi-character, community who are all not what they seem. But I found TLOST more of a thriller set in a contemporary space, whereas this is mostly told through conversation rather than action, you're not necessarily sure what the secrets are, it's all very hush hush. It's almost like you're a detective trying to look in the gaps that these characters create for you - it's very clever.
It's another one of those books that makes you question whether you should even try to write a book, because it will never been as good as this one.
You wonder how a book of this length can be told over just one day, surely it must get slow? But it doesn't. Somehow she's managed the pace of it perfectly.
I didn't want it to end at all. I felt the same way with TLOST. I flew through that and was then annoyed that I hadn't taken my time with it, but I've done exactly the same thing here. I couldn't help it. It's so fun and natural to read that you just disappear into this world and then all of a sudden you're finished and you want to start again.
I know she's only two books in, but I can say hand on heart that I will read everything she writes - even her grocery list if she'd let me. I sure hope she has a long writing career because I, and everyone else, needs her talent on their bookshelves.
Now all I need to know is, when is book three coming out?
November 12, 2025
Jennie Godfrey is a joy! Her writing is sublime and ‘The Barbecue at No. 9’ is sure to be yet another smash hit (pun intended). The book brought back SO MANY memories of growing up in a new-build housing estate and of the Live Aid era. It's a beautiful, compelling read with some very impactful scenarios unfolding within the narrative. I bawled reading the final page! Having ripped through it, I now feel somewhat bereft and I'm really going to miss the residents of Delmont Close. Another surefire bestseller. All hail Queen Jennie Godfrey!
Edit: I can't believe I forgot to mention the playlist!!! Book playlists are my favourite thing ever and this one is a belter. You can find it here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/16K...
Edit: I can't believe I forgot to mention the playlist!!! Book playlists are my favourite thing ever and this one is a belter. You can find it here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/16K...
December 8, 2025
The author acquits herself well with this fine sophmore offering, in which a 1985 Live Aid watch party reveals neighborhood secrets. Fab!
October 30, 2025
This book feels similar to Jennie Godfrey's first book in that it's very character based, set in the UK decades ago and is written in such a way that it's easy to read.
I liked the large character variety and the singular event setting. The barbecue was interesting and fun, I loved the suburban environment and the pressures of the 'perfect family'. I loved the judgement of the 'unusual' people who lived there like the divorced ladies - especially since this was set in the 80s. The multiple viewpoints were great, it kept it interesting and the backstories of some of the characters was fascinating.
I found the background of the band aid interesting especially since none of the people really seemed to care about the children in Africa (except for that one crying lady). I also found it funny when they made that snarky comment about Freddy Mercury's sexuality even though they'd all gathered around the television to watch Queen.
I really enjoyed this, it was nice and easy to read, I binged it in one go which I haven't done in a while. Huge thank you to NetGalley, Jennie Godfrey and Random House UK for this ARC.
I liked the large character variety and the singular event setting. The barbecue was interesting and fun, I loved the suburban environment and the pressures of the 'perfect family'. I loved the judgement of the 'unusual' people who lived there like the divorced ladies - especially since this was set in the 80s. The multiple viewpoints were great, it kept it interesting and the backstories of some of the characters was fascinating.
I found the background of the band aid interesting especially since none of the people really seemed to care about the children in Africa (except for that one crying lady). I also found it funny when they made that snarky comment about Freddy Mercury's sexuality even though they'd all gathered around the television to watch Queen.
I really enjoyed this, it was nice and easy to read, I binged it in one go which I haven't done in a while. Huge thank you to NetGalley, Jennie Godfrey and Random House UK for this ARC.
October 27, 2025
The whole ‘second album’ phrase need not be worried about here. Jennie proves she is a master at her craft, creating a brand new story packed with heart, secrets and a barbecue you’ll not want to miss!
I loved how nostalgic and atmospheric the novel is once again. Jennie has this expert craft of transporting a reader back to the time her stories are set; this time to 1985 with the new barbecue craze sweeping Britain, Brookside dominating Channel 4, C&A clothes shop for the working-class, and buying VHS tapes to record your favourite shows from the telly.
Jennie has a talent for crafting characters and the right amount of depth required for readers to know them well, understand them and fall in love with them. Steve was my standout hero in this book. His character serves as a subtle lesson to not be so judgemental of others. He’s vulnerable, reclusive and mocked. Given the chance and help needed, he can be just as caring, loving and supportive as everyone else. I enjoyed his story the most and he has a little extra something (storyline wise) that I entirely appreciated.
The rest of the neighbours are diverse and the perfect recipe for a juicy, mysterious story. Secrets unravel… lies are exposed… You’ll all know a Lydia Gordon - You’ll all have had a Steve in your school-year group - Hanna might even have been you - and the lady from the shop exists in many villages!
The writing was superb. I felt like a fly on the wall throughout the whole story; a credit to the storytelling. It almost read like a cosy soap-opera - It has Coronation Street’s warmth and tenderness where required, and the secrets worthy of an EastEnders revelation. Perfect for an absolute nosey-Parker like me, who enjoys learning about and watching other people!
But at its heart, it’s a cosy story of family, friendship, regrets and life. It’s warm when it’s needed, with just the right amount of twists and shocks to keep you gripped. Characters stay true to theirselves. They’re sometimes flawed which makes them very relatable and they all make a great placements in this wonderful novel. I enjoyed from start to finish. I was so immersed, I could not put it down.
Jennie’s two novels show she was born to write and her career change was the best decision. 5 stars - no notes.
I loved how nostalgic and atmospheric the novel is once again. Jennie has this expert craft of transporting a reader back to the time her stories are set; this time to 1985 with the new barbecue craze sweeping Britain, Brookside dominating Channel 4, C&A clothes shop for the working-class, and buying VHS tapes to record your favourite shows from the telly.
Jennie has a talent for crafting characters and the right amount of depth required for readers to know them well, understand them and fall in love with them. Steve was my standout hero in this book. His character serves as a subtle lesson to not be so judgemental of others. He’s vulnerable, reclusive and mocked. Given the chance and help needed, he can be just as caring, loving and supportive as everyone else. I enjoyed his story the most and he has a little extra something (storyline wise) that I entirely appreciated.
The rest of the neighbours are diverse and the perfect recipe for a juicy, mysterious story. Secrets unravel… lies are exposed… You’ll all know a Lydia Gordon - You’ll all have had a Steve in your school-year group - Hanna might even have been you - and the lady from the shop exists in many villages!
The writing was superb. I felt like a fly on the wall throughout the whole story; a credit to the storytelling. It almost read like a cosy soap-opera - It has Coronation Street’s warmth and tenderness where required, and the secrets worthy of an EastEnders revelation. Perfect for an absolute nosey-Parker like me, who enjoys learning about and watching other people!
But at its heart, it’s a cosy story of family, friendship, regrets and life. It’s warm when it’s needed, with just the right amount of twists and shocks to keep you gripped. Characters stay true to theirselves. They’re sometimes flawed which makes them very relatable and they all make a great placements in this wonderful novel. I enjoyed from start to finish. I was so immersed, I could not put it down.
Jennie’s two novels show she was born to write and her career change was the best decision. 5 stars - no notes.
November 21, 2025
It's a boiling hot day in the summer of 1985, Live Aid is due to broadcast across the globe and the Gordons are hosting a barbecue to bring the neighbourhood together and watch the concert. As the temperature rises, tempers fray and the disparate families of the road are unable to stop the cracks from showing. In the meantime, a mysterious and shadowy stranger has been seen, staring into gardens and ratcheting up the tension in an already fraught neighbourhood. This is evocative, sharp writing that cleverly immerses you in a time and place and beautifully exposes the idea of the perfect family.
November 14, 2025
In the summer of 1985, the entire country is poised for the biggest music event in history – Live Aid. The residents of Delmont Close are preparing for a neighbourhood barbecue to celebrate this historic moment, but someone uninvited is watching them closely, getting ready to make their move. But who are they watching, and why? The Gordons – Hanna, her high-strung mother Lydia and sweet father Peter – have opened the doors to their home. When their neighbours flood in, so do all the secrets that have been kept in the close. There is Rita, a new resident from Australia, Steve a young man who is battling his own demons & Aunty Beverley who has come to pass judgment on her relatives.
Wow. Just wow. I finished this book and was just completely awestruck with the warm and fuzzy feeling it left me with, realising just how much I loved every single moment of it.
Filled with 80’s nostalgia - bringing back happy memories of recording the Top 40 on a tape every Sunday, playing Frogger and bowls of Twiglets at parties that no one ever liked but now I have a very strange craving for! - this book takes us through the day of the Live Aid concert back in 1985, introducing us to some fabulous characters that you instantly warm to.
Straight from the off Hanna is such a strong character, despite her young age, trying to battle with a secret that could blow her family apart, especially with the formidable Lydia as her mother. Steve is also such an endearing character, the evidence that he has witnessed awful things leaving him with undiagnosed PTSD, and confusion about the direction his life is taking him, is tenderly and informatively described, taking into account the very differing attitudes expressed in the 80’s.
And then Rita, her world is very different since arriving on Delmont Close, her secret beautifully explored in sentimental flashbacks, bringing to the foreground a very important issue, all told in Jennie’s unique captivating writing style, meaning it’s very easy to embrace the character’s thoughts & emotions throughout.
After loving ‘The List Of Suspicious Things’ I have been counting down to the next release by Jennie and it’s safe to say I definitely wasn’t disappointed - as if there was any doubt! Her ability to welcome you into a world with the most amazing characters is second to none and I am so glad that all the incredible stories in her mind have made it to paper to share with us all.
Jennie, in the words of Queen, run down that road screaming “Don’t Stop Me Now” because you’ve smashed it out the park once again! As you may have gathered, I can’t recommend this one enough, order your copy today, you won’t regret it!
Wow. Just wow. I finished this book and was just completely awestruck with the warm and fuzzy feeling it left me with, realising just how much I loved every single moment of it.
Filled with 80’s nostalgia - bringing back happy memories of recording the Top 40 on a tape every Sunday, playing Frogger and bowls of Twiglets at parties that no one ever liked but now I have a very strange craving for! - this book takes us through the day of the Live Aid concert back in 1985, introducing us to some fabulous characters that you instantly warm to.
Straight from the off Hanna is such a strong character, despite her young age, trying to battle with a secret that could blow her family apart, especially with the formidable Lydia as her mother. Steve is also such an endearing character, the evidence that he has witnessed awful things leaving him with undiagnosed PTSD, and confusion about the direction his life is taking him, is tenderly and informatively described, taking into account the very differing attitudes expressed in the 80’s.
And then Rita, her world is very different since arriving on Delmont Close, her secret beautifully explored in sentimental flashbacks, bringing to the foreground a very important issue, all told in Jennie’s unique captivating writing style, meaning it’s very easy to embrace the character’s thoughts & emotions throughout.
After loving ‘The List Of Suspicious Things’ I have been counting down to the next release by Jennie and it’s safe to say I definitely wasn’t disappointed - as if there was any doubt! Her ability to welcome you into a world with the most amazing characters is second to none and I am so glad that all the incredible stories in her mind have made it to paper to share with us all.
Jennie, in the words of Queen, run down that road screaming “Don’t Stop Me Now” because you’ve smashed it out the park once again! As you may have gathered, I can’t recommend this one enough, order your copy today, you won’t regret it!
November 9, 2025
Well ive just finished #TheBarbecueAtNo9 by @jennie.godfrey published by @hutchheinemann in February 2026.
As a HUGE fan and lover of Jennies debut The List Of Suspicious Things ive been eagerly awaiting her next novel. And it really didn't disappoint. Set during the summer of 1984 when the famed Live Aid concert aired on a hot July afternoon. We meet the residents of Delmont Close as the story is very much chrachter driven,each chapter giving us an i sight into the life of a resident..theres Hanna at 16, already dealing with lots, Rita, the shy recluse and my personal favourite Steve the Falklands War damaged watcher of the close.
Jenny has such a talent for writing raw,down to earth, realistic chrachters and this novel shines with the joy of her witty and sharply observed cast. And with each chapter the reader is drawn in to a banal UK street that is filled with secrets bubbling under the surface should you look and listen deep enough to see them! We are drawn into the lives of the inhabitants whilst reliving the hourly music and artists that graced the stage for the greatest concert ever.
There's sadness,happiness,grief, joy in buckets full in The Barbecue At Number 9,making a wonderful heartfelt page turner.
I loved it a solid 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read. 💚💚
As a HUGE fan and lover of Jennies debut The List Of Suspicious Things ive been eagerly awaiting her next novel. And it really didn't disappoint. Set during the summer of 1984 when the famed Live Aid concert aired on a hot July afternoon. We meet the residents of Delmont Close as the story is very much chrachter driven,each chapter giving us an i sight into the life of a resident..theres Hanna at 16, already dealing with lots, Rita, the shy recluse and my personal favourite Steve the Falklands War damaged watcher of the close.
Jenny has such a talent for writing raw,down to earth, realistic chrachters and this novel shines with the joy of her witty and sharply observed cast. And with each chapter the reader is drawn in to a banal UK street that is filled with secrets bubbling under the surface should you look and listen deep enough to see them! We are drawn into the lives of the inhabitants whilst reliving the hourly music and artists that graced the stage for the greatest concert ever.
There's sadness,happiness,grief, joy in buckets full in The Barbecue At Number 9,making a wonderful heartfelt page turner.
I loved it a solid 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read. 💚💚
December 23, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ The Barbecue at No 9. By Jennie Godfrey
I squealed in delight when I received an ARC of this book from Penguin Random House because I adored Godfrey’s first book The List of Suspicious Things. I had a really good feeling I was going to love this too. And of course….. I was right.
It’s July 1985, Live Aid day and the residents of Delmont Close are celebrating with a barbecue at Lydia and Peter Gordon’s house. Lydia, whose role models are Princess Di and Delia Smith, wants to impress everyone with her posh house, garden and perfect family.
All the neighbours have been invited and among them are Steve, a Falklands veteran suffering from PTSD, who spends his time keeping watch from his bedroom for any suspicious activity.
Rita, who has recently moved from Australia, wants to meet new people but is afraid her neighbours will know she is harbouring a terrible secret from her past.
And she’s not the only one. Hannah Gordon, Lydia and Peter’s daughter, is planning to run away after the barbecue rather than reveal her secret to her parents.
So many secrets are being hidden and if they are discovered everyone’s pretence of a perfect life will be threatened.
What a fantastic book this was. A family saga dripping in the secrets and lies of ordinary, everyday people. The characters were remarkable and full of depth, each with their own captivating story to tell.
The plot thickened around the backdrop of Live Aid and I was gripped from start to finish. I loved the 80’s nostalgia, not only from the music but also in the fashion, the food and political events happening at that time
I enjoyed this book so much and even though this week has been mental I jumped into it every spare minute I got, becoming completely lost in it for two days. It is due to be published in February 2026 but I am already thinking of the fantastically talented Jennie Godrey’s next book.
November 26, 2025
Jennie Godfrey’s “List Of Suspicious Things” was one of my “books of the year” when it was published so I was beyond excited to get hold of her new one- “The Barbecue At Number 9”.
It covers a similar time period but focuses on one day - July12th 1985- the day of the Live Aid concert.
It examines a number of characters all living in a small close, invited to a Live Aid barbecue at number 9. Arranged by Lydia and her husband Peter with teenager Hanna and her brother David. However Hanna and Peter have secrets that they don’t want anyone to know about. The story is told from Hanna’s point of view as well as that of Steve, a Falklands veteran suffering from post traumatic stress and Rita who has her own secrets which are gradually revealed during the course of the novel.
The characters were all well drawn and their lives reflected the times they lived in, the prejudices which were inherent in a society which existed 40 years ago. It made me think how much life has moved on in the twenty first century although some things do not change and people still have the same concerns they had then- fear of being different and worry about hurting loved ones to name but two.
I remember the day of Live Aid very well and I felt that the author succeeded in capturing the day and the love of the music which brought people together. The hot Summer of 1985 created the perfect setting for the book and even more apt was the fact it was the 40th anniversary of this event in 2025 and it has been in the news a lot - there has even been a musical written about it.
I definitely recommend this book as an atmospheric and well written novel which succeeds in capturing a particular moment in time.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my advance copy.
It covers a similar time period but focuses on one day - July12th 1985- the day of the Live Aid concert.
It examines a number of characters all living in a small close, invited to a Live Aid barbecue at number 9. Arranged by Lydia and her husband Peter with teenager Hanna and her brother David. However Hanna and Peter have secrets that they don’t want anyone to know about. The story is told from Hanna’s point of view as well as that of Steve, a Falklands veteran suffering from post traumatic stress and Rita who has her own secrets which are gradually revealed during the course of the novel.
The characters were all well drawn and their lives reflected the times they lived in, the prejudices which were inherent in a society which existed 40 years ago. It made me think how much life has moved on in the twenty first century although some things do not change and people still have the same concerns they had then- fear of being different and worry about hurting loved ones to name but two.
I remember the day of Live Aid very well and I felt that the author succeeded in capturing the day and the love of the music which brought people together. The hot Summer of 1985 created the perfect setting for the book and even more apt was the fact it was the 40th anniversary of this event in 2025 and it has been in the news a lot - there has even been a musical written about it.
I definitely recommend this book as an atmospheric and well written novel which succeeds in capturing a particular moment in time.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my advance copy.
Review of advance copy
It's the summer of 1985, and the Live Aid concert is the biggest TV event of the year. To mark the occasion, Hanna's parents - well, her mum, Lydia - has decided to throw a barbecue party and invite the neighbours from the rest of the street. After all, Lydia wants everyone to know how well to-do she is. Nothing matters more than appearances.
But Hanna's got a secret that might ruin her parents' lives. And she's not the only one. It turns out that many of the residents of Delmont Close are battling their own demons, including Rita who has fled from a life in Australia, and Steve, whose time in the Falklands War has taken a massive toll on him.
Unlike The List of Suspicious Things, there's no mistaking the genre here: this is a drama, where characters are the key focus. And since Jennie excels at writing characters so brilliantly and realistically, that's no bad thing. There are no twists and turns, just a small dose of slow-burn suspense as the scope of everyone's secret is slowly doled out.
The events of The Barbecue at No. 9 unfold over one day, with the book split hour by hour. Chapters split between the perspective of several of the characters, allowing us to get to know them all deeply. There are lots of names of neighbours bandied about and it can occasionally be tricky to keep up with who's-who, but it never becomes an issue.
Steeped with nostalgia, with complex characters that you simply must know more about, this is another triumph for Jennie Godfrey. It's remarkable in a quiet, thoughtful way, capturing the mundanity of everyday lives, reflecting the fact that none of us are perfect and we're all just out here doing our best.
But Hanna's got a secret that might ruin her parents' lives. And she's not the only one. It turns out that many of the residents of Delmont Close are battling their own demons, including Rita who has fled from a life in Australia, and Steve, whose time in the Falklands War has taken a massive toll on him.
Unlike The List of Suspicious Things, there's no mistaking the genre here: this is a drama, where characters are the key focus. And since Jennie excels at writing characters so brilliantly and realistically, that's no bad thing. There are no twists and turns, just a small dose of slow-burn suspense as the scope of everyone's secret is slowly doled out.
The events of The Barbecue at No. 9 unfold over one day, with the book split hour by hour. Chapters split between the perspective of several of the characters, allowing us to get to know them all deeply. There are lots of names of neighbours bandied about and it can occasionally be tricky to keep up with who's-who, but it never becomes an issue.
Steeped with nostalgia, with complex characters that you simply must know more about, this is another triumph for Jennie Godfrey. It's remarkable in a quiet, thoughtful way, capturing the mundanity of everyday lives, reflecting the fact that none of us are perfect and we're all just out here doing our best.
November 17, 2025
The residents of newly built Delmont Close have come together for a BBQ to celebrate Live Aid. It's a hot summer day in 1985 and the Gordon family, lead by matriarch Lydia (aka Lady Di), are hosting. But this group of relative strangers are all hiding secrets that no one wants uncovered.
I absolutely adored Jennie's previous book, The List of Suspicious Things, and was really hoping that this lived up to it, but despite it being an enjoyable trip into 1985 family dynamics it just fell a bit short of the mark for me. We spend a lot of time learning about the thoughts and feelings of Stephen, Peter, Rita, and Hanna as well as nuggets of information about their friends and families, but I just didn't feel that invested in any of them, possibly because there's quite a few people on the street. There's also little description as to how they each look or dress, so I struggled to picture them.
The book spends a long time giving hints of what they're each hiding, but then it all resolves quite quickly and the majority of the secrets were either not that big a deal or if they were, you'd have to have a grasp of the social issues of the 80s to understand them. Maybe what I was missing was the feeling of nostalgia? I was only 3 when the book was set and have no recollection of Live Aid except from clips I've seen. I just kept waiting for something to happen at the BBQ or there to be a big reveal, but it didn't ever really come.
I absolutely adored Jennie's previous book, The List of Suspicious Things, and was really hoping that this lived up to it, but despite it being an enjoyable trip into 1985 family dynamics it just fell a bit short of the mark for me. We spend a lot of time learning about the thoughts and feelings of Stephen, Peter, Rita, and Hanna as well as nuggets of information about their friends and families, but I just didn't feel that invested in any of them, possibly because there's quite a few people on the street. There's also little description as to how they each look or dress, so I struggled to picture them.
The book spends a long time giving hints of what they're each hiding, but then it all resolves quite quickly and the majority of the secrets were either not that big a deal or if they were, you'd have to have a grasp of the social issues of the 80s to understand them. Maybe what I was missing was the feeling of nostalgia? I was only 3 when the book was set and have no recollection of Live Aid except from clips I've seen. I just kept waiting for something to happen at the BBQ or there to be a big reveal, but it didn't ever really come.
November 13, 2025
Set over 12 hours in 1985 the residents of Delmont Close are preparing a neighbourhood barbecue to watch the biggest music event in Live Aid. A day that will end having touched the lives of millions and changed the lives of all in Delmont Close.
Hosted by the Gordon family, Lydia whose idols are Princess Di and Delia Smith, is determined to put on a show that will impress all. As the neighbours flood in, all the secrets that have been kept locked tight come rushing out.
Rita, a new resident from Australia, harbours a shocking event in her past, Steve a young Falklands veteran battles his own demons, and Hanna, the Gordon's young teenage daughter prepares to flee to hide a shocking truth.
I seem to be a bit of an outlier on this book but I'm afraid I found it rather dull despite it having an interesting premise. Jennie Godfrey's gift is for characterisation but because of the constant trailing of secrets I couldn't get into the minds of the protagonists until the final few chapters. The characters come across as stereotypes and I didn't really get involved with any of them until the final quarter of the book and by then it was too late to make an impact. I don't need exciting reveals I just need great characters like the ones in her debut novel.
My thanks to NetGalley and Cornerstone for an advance copy in return for an honest review.
Hosted by the Gordon family, Lydia whose idols are Princess Di and Delia Smith, is determined to put on a show that will impress all. As the neighbours flood in, all the secrets that have been kept locked tight come rushing out.
Rita, a new resident from Australia, harbours a shocking event in her past, Steve a young Falklands veteran battles his own demons, and Hanna, the Gordon's young teenage daughter prepares to flee to hide a shocking truth.
I seem to be a bit of an outlier on this book but I'm afraid I found it rather dull despite it having an interesting premise. Jennie Godfrey's gift is for characterisation but because of the constant trailing of secrets I couldn't get into the minds of the protagonists until the final few chapters. The characters come across as stereotypes and I didn't really get involved with any of them until the final quarter of the book and by then it was too late to make an impact. I don't need exciting reveals I just need great characters like the ones in her debut novel.
My thanks to NetGalley and Cornerstone for an advance copy in return for an honest review.
November 14, 2025
This is a real page turner. I was hooked on the first page but then it did slow for me a little as I tried to remember who all the characters were - until I realised it was focusing mainly on three of the households and three people with something to hide. The beautifully drawn plan of the Close helped enormously, the I love the way the hierarchy of the houses are depicted with the six largest five-bedroomed houses at the crest, followed by eight smaller ones and lastly by the six smallest and all shown with their occupants.
This is a barbecue to impress to celebrate the day of the Live Aid concert with no expense spared and, of course, everyone must go.
As secrets unfold they bring about a profound effect on each of the three households, all causing life changing consequences – oh, not to mention the mystery of the watcher lurking in the shadows. It is lively and moves along at a great pace with each of the stories handled well against the backdrop of the barbecue. The characters are all believable and brought to life on the page with the well thought out plot.
I was eager to read this as I have already read and enjoyed Jennie Godfrey’s debut novel The List of Suspicious Things and this did not disappoint, I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Many thanks to Jennie Godfrey, Random House Cornerstone and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
This is a barbecue to impress to celebrate the day of the Live Aid concert with no expense spared and, of course, everyone must go.
As secrets unfold they bring about a profound effect on each of the three households, all causing life changing consequences – oh, not to mention the mystery of the watcher lurking in the shadows. It is lively and moves along at a great pace with each of the stories handled well against the backdrop of the barbecue. The characters are all believable and brought to life on the page with the well thought out plot.
I was eager to read this as I have already read and enjoyed Jennie Godfrey’s debut novel The List of Suspicious Things and this did not disappoint, I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Many thanks to Jennie Godfrey, Random House Cornerstone and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
November 28, 2025
The inhabitants of Delmont Close are a pretty diverse bunch, from a traumatized young war veteran and his fun-loving yet devoted mum, to a young girl who is carrying a piece of information that has the potential to destroy more than one life, and a new arrival from the Antipodes who has her own burning secret to protect.
But they are all looking forward to the barbecue at the Gordons' home, timed to make the most of the Live Aid concert held in 1985. Because even if Lydia Gordon can seem a little snobbish, and decidedly self-satisfied regarding her perfect home and family, there will be a good spread and a good time to be had with neighbours.
But as it turns out, there are far more lies at play than anyone imagines, and Lydia herself may be in for a rude shock when it comes to considering her priorities...
I absolutely loved Jenny Godfrey's first book, but she has done an excellent job of following it up with this novel. She expertly conjures up the atmosphere and preoccupations of the 1980s, and introduces the reader to a set of immensely relatable characters that they'll quickly come to care about. I especially liked the way the music from the concert is woven into the story telling. Don't miss this one!
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
But they are all looking forward to the barbecue at the Gordons' home, timed to make the most of the Live Aid concert held in 1985. Because even if Lydia Gordon can seem a little snobbish, and decidedly self-satisfied regarding her perfect home and family, there will be a good spread and a good time to be had with neighbours.
But as it turns out, there are far more lies at play than anyone imagines, and Lydia herself may be in for a rude shock when it comes to considering her priorities...
I absolutely loved Jenny Godfrey's first book, but she has done an excellent job of following it up with this novel. She expertly conjures up the atmosphere and preoccupations of the 1980s, and introduces the reader to a set of immensely relatable characters that they'll quickly come to care about. I especially liked the way the music from the concert is woven into the story telling. Don't miss this one!
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
December 6, 2025
First off all, many thanks for the ARC of this - after The List of Suspicious Things, I was really eager to read this book.
It's another powerful story from Jennie Godfrey, full of engaging characters as neighbours gather for a barbecue on the day of the Live Aid concert in 1985. Bur everyone's mind is not on the concert. Behind each net curtain in the close, there are issues to deal with and secrets to keep - some petty, some astonishingly life-changing.
Though the story is told from several viewpoints, the main focus of the book is Hanna, teenage daughter of the hosts, Peter and Lydia., Pretty, clever, musical and with a lovely boyfriend, her life should be perfect. But things aren't all that they seem.
Jennie Godfrey has a real talent for taking the ordinariness of life, and turning in into the extraordinary, Though there are dark themes here, they are balanced with warmth and humour, as snobby aunts and opinionated uncles lend their not-so-humble opinions to all that they think is wrong in the world, oblivious to the very real dramas that are going on right under their noses.
Jennie Godfrey also nails the zeitgeist of 1985 perfectly! Manners and morals were different even just forty short years ago, but human character remains the same, and you'll identify and empathise with each and everyone of the party-goers here.
A lovely book, to be read in a sitting.
It's another powerful story from Jennie Godfrey, full of engaging characters as neighbours gather for a barbecue on the day of the Live Aid concert in 1985. Bur everyone's mind is not on the concert. Behind each net curtain in the close, there are issues to deal with and secrets to keep - some petty, some astonishingly life-changing.
Though the story is told from several viewpoints, the main focus of the book is Hanna, teenage daughter of the hosts, Peter and Lydia., Pretty, clever, musical and with a lovely boyfriend, her life should be perfect. But things aren't all that they seem.
Jennie Godfrey has a real talent for taking the ordinariness of life, and turning in into the extraordinary, Though there are dark themes here, they are balanced with warmth and humour, as snobby aunts and opinionated uncles lend their not-so-humble opinions to all that they think is wrong in the world, oblivious to the very real dramas that are going on right under their noses.
Jennie Godfrey also nails the zeitgeist of 1985 perfectly! Manners and morals were different even just forty short years ago, but human character remains the same, and you'll identify and empathise with each and everyone of the party-goers here.
A lovely book, to be read in a sitting.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5* The Barbecue at No 9 by Jennie Godfrey - another 5* character led exploration of the difficulties of family life, set to the backdrop of Live Aid. A superb second novel from the author of The List of Suspicious Things.
July 1985 - Lydia decides to have a barbecue to coincide with the Live Aid concert. Lording it up in her 5 bedroom Wimpey house, Lydia is an ostentatious snob with no idea of the strife going on in her own family. Around the Close are neighbours who include Rita who is (shockingly) a divorcee with a past, Davina who (more shockingly) has 3 daughters by 3 different men and Steve who rarely leaves the house.
Intertwining their stories and slowly revealing their secrets, Jennie Godfrey has an incredible eye for people and how to bring them truly to life on the page. The hook of Band Aid evokes an era, but so do the many small details of the 80s and the prejudices of the time. Glass of Blue Nun anyone?!
The Barbecue perhaps took a little too long to get going but it was a pleasure to get to know the characters and to learn their secrets. It makes for an explosive final third as matters begins to unravel. If you loved The List of Suspicious Things, you’ll love this book. If you haven’t read The List of Suspicious Things - what are you waiting for, get to it!
Thanks to Hutchinson Heinemann / Penguin Random House and Netgalley for an ARC.
July 1985 - Lydia decides to have a barbecue to coincide with the Live Aid concert. Lording it up in her 5 bedroom Wimpey house, Lydia is an ostentatious snob with no idea of the strife going on in her own family. Around the Close are neighbours who include Rita who is (shockingly) a divorcee with a past, Davina who (more shockingly) has 3 daughters by 3 different men and Steve who rarely leaves the house.
Intertwining their stories and slowly revealing their secrets, Jennie Godfrey has an incredible eye for people and how to bring them truly to life on the page. The hook of Band Aid evokes an era, but so do the many small details of the 80s and the prejudices of the time. Glass of Blue Nun anyone?!
The Barbecue perhaps took a little too long to get going but it was a pleasure to get to know the characters and to learn their secrets. It makes for an explosive final third as matters begins to unravel. If you loved The List of Suspicious Things, you’ll love this book. If you haven’t read The List of Suspicious Things - what are you waiting for, get to it!
Thanks to Hutchinson Heinemann / Penguin Random House and Netgalley for an ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Oh, this is another gem by Jennie Godfrey 🥹
Just as I did with TLOST, I devoured The Barbecue at No. 9 and read it within the space of a few days. I absolutely adored TLOST, and Godfrey's latest novel definitely didn't disappoint.
In The Barbecue at No. 9, we follow the residents of the new Delmont Close estate who are preparing to celebrate the biggest live music event to date - Live Aid. Determined to impress her new neighbours, Lydia Gordon throws a barbecue party at number 9, promising a day that will go down in history.
As the neighbours gather, it becomes apparent that there is a lot more going on behind closed doors than meets the eye. With a combination of shocking secrets and troubled pasts, the neighbours may have found kindred spirits amongst each other.
The Barbecue at No. 9 is ultimately a book that explores family and friendship, overcoming heartbreak, and new beginnings - but first, the neighbours keep getting sightings of a mysterious person who appears to be watching the estate. Who are they and what do they want with Delmont Close?
I am forever grateful to the team at Penguin for my proof copy. This was probably my most anticipated 2026 release so I'm still so excited that I got to read an early copy!
Make sure you grab your copy 🫶🏻
Just as I did with TLOST, I devoured The Barbecue at No. 9 and read it within the space of a few days. I absolutely adored TLOST, and Godfrey's latest novel definitely didn't disappoint.
In The Barbecue at No. 9, we follow the residents of the new Delmont Close estate who are preparing to celebrate the biggest live music event to date - Live Aid. Determined to impress her new neighbours, Lydia Gordon throws a barbecue party at number 9, promising a day that will go down in history.
As the neighbours gather, it becomes apparent that there is a lot more going on behind closed doors than meets the eye. With a combination of shocking secrets and troubled pasts, the neighbours may have found kindred spirits amongst each other.
The Barbecue at No. 9 is ultimately a book that explores family and friendship, overcoming heartbreak, and new beginnings - but first, the neighbours keep getting sightings of a mysterious person who appears to be watching the estate. Who are they and what do they want with Delmont Close?
I am forever grateful to the team at Penguin for my proof copy. This was probably my most anticipated 2026 release so I'm still so excited that I got to read an early copy!
Make sure you grab your copy 🫶🏻
November 13, 2025
Set mostly over one day, the day of the Live Aid Concert in 1985, and the social climbing Lydia Gordon, mother of Hanna, has decided to hold a barbecue for the whole street. Most of the story is told from Hanna’s viewpoint as various undercurrents, personal issues and secrets are revealed.
There is no great mystery at the heart of the novel, it’s much more of a character story and very much a period piece, with lots of detail on life in the mid 80s, all of it pretty much as I remember it. It’s nostalgic, warm and funny but, as with The List of Suspicious Things, doesn’t entirely turn away from the more problematic issues and opinions of the time.
I loved the List of Suspicious Things and was slightly concerned that this may disappoint but I really enjoyed it. Jennie Godfrey has a lovely writing style and all the details of the period are beautifully done (as with her debut) – a great read.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an advance copy in return for an honest review.
There is no great mystery at the heart of the novel, it’s much more of a character story and very much a period piece, with lots of detail on life in the mid 80s, all of it pretty much as I remember it. It’s nostalgic, warm and funny but, as with The List of Suspicious Things, doesn’t entirely turn away from the more problematic issues and opinions of the time.
I loved the List of Suspicious Things and was slightly concerned that this may disappoint but I really enjoyed it. Jennie Godfrey has a lovely writing style and all the details of the period are beautifully done (as with her debut) – a great read.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an advance copy in return for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I am so pleased to have been able to read this book in advance. The List of Suspicious Things was my favourite book of 2024 and I have really looked forward to this one. Was I disappointed - no way.
The book definitely is very character driven. The background is the day of Live Aid in 1985 and it is based around the residents of a Delmont Close, a street of new build houses. The characters stories interweave and Jennie writes fantastic personalities to them - the ones in this book feel like they could have been my neighbours, all of them having secrets that come out as the book goes on.
The book starts at a slow pace, which starts to speed up the further you get into it. If you remember Live Aid I definitely recommend it, and if you like to nose into other people's lives I recommend it to. Very easy to read, I would say this doesn't have the thriller element that Jennie's first book had. A great second novel.
Thank you to Jennie, Penguin and Hutchinson Heinemann for gifting me this book
The book definitely is very character driven. The background is the day of Live Aid in 1985 and it is based around the residents of a Delmont Close, a street of new build houses. The characters stories interweave and Jennie writes fantastic personalities to them - the ones in this book feel like they could have been my neighbours, all of them having secrets that come out as the book goes on.
The book starts at a slow pace, which starts to speed up the further you get into it. If you remember Live Aid I definitely recommend it, and if you like to nose into other people's lives I recommend it to. Very easy to read, I would say this doesn't have the thriller element that Jennie's first book had. A great second novel.
Thank you to Jennie, Penguin and Hutchinson Heinemann for gifting me this book
November 14, 2025
Set in July 1985, the Live Aid concert provides a backdrop for a barbecue for the residents of newly built Delmont Close. Lydia Gordon at number 9 invites her diverse cast of neighbours to a party in her garden, hoping to showcase her “perfect” home and family. However, all is not as it seems at number 9 and additionally many of their neighbours have secrets and back stories to tell.
The Barbecue at No 9 is a social commentary rather than a thriller as there is no big mystery at the centre of the story. The story is character led, told from several points of view with an epilogue which lets us see how everyone gets on. Many of the characters’ actions and comments reflect the attitudes of the time.
As a social commentary of the 1980’s there are some great touches which create a nostalgia for a decade of high unemployment, protests, war, Lady Di fashion and of course, interesting party food choices!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC
The Barbecue at No 9 is a social commentary rather than a thriller as there is no big mystery at the centre of the story. The story is character led, told from several points of view with an epilogue which lets us see how everyone gets on. Many of the characters’ actions and comments reflect the attitudes of the time.
As a social commentary of the 1980’s there are some great touches which create a nostalgia for a decade of high unemployment, protests, war, Lady Di fashion and of course, interesting party food choices!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC
November 22, 2025
I adored Jennie Godfrey’s debut, The List of Suspicious Things and have bought copies for others, and told everyone who loves reading to make sure it’s in their bookshelf, so I have been nervously anticipating this new book, wondering if it could live up to my expectations.
Thank goodness the answer is yes. Set mostly over the course of one day, the day of Live Aid in 1985, the book tells the stories of the residents of Delmont Close, through a barbecue held by the residents of Number 9; Lydia and Peter Gordon, and their children Hanna and David.
Everyone in Delmont Close has stuff going on in their lives, and residents’ secrets are gradually revealed over the course of the day, tracked hour by hour alongside the concert. The books is evocative of the 80s and character driven. Once I’d got everyone in my head, I was eager to find out what was going to happen to them.
Funny and poignant. Another massive success.
Thank goodness the answer is yes. Set mostly over the course of one day, the day of Live Aid in 1985, the book tells the stories of the residents of Delmont Close, through a barbecue held by the residents of Number 9; Lydia and Peter Gordon, and their children Hanna and David.
Everyone in Delmont Close has stuff going on in their lives, and residents’ secrets are gradually revealed over the course of the day, tracked hour by hour alongside the concert. The books is evocative of the 80s and character driven. Once I’d got everyone in my head, I was eager to find out what was going to happen to them.
Funny and poignant. Another massive success.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Nobody writes 80s nostalgia like Jennie Godfrey, and I enjoyed this slice of life from back in the day, complete with Timotei shampoo, a shiny new Volvo and, of course, Live Aid.
Also mainstream homophobia, widespread unemployment and blatant SA on a casual basis. Plus a character with PTSD after his Falklands War experience and another with an unwanted pregnancy. Not forgetting an actual murder / manslaughter as the backstory. Just in case anybody was looking at our world forty years ago through rose-tinted spectacles.
I love the way the set list was used to provide structure to the novel, allowing the author to move from one character to another as she wove her complex tale.
And it was actually really nice to read this story set in the height of what I remember to be a baking hot summer (by Scottish standards) just as we enter the drizzly but cold start of this year’s English winter.
Bravo, Jennie Godfrey. And thanks to the publisher for the eARC.
Also mainstream homophobia, widespread unemployment and blatant SA on a casual basis. Plus a character with PTSD after his Falklands War experience and another with an unwanted pregnancy. Not forgetting an actual murder / manslaughter as the backstory. Just in case anybody was looking at our world forty years ago through rose-tinted spectacles.
I love the way the set list was used to provide structure to the novel, allowing the author to move from one character to another as she wove her complex tale.
And it was actually really nice to read this story set in the height of what I remember to be a baking hot summer (by Scottish standards) just as we enter the drizzly but cold start of this year’s English winter.
Bravo, Jennie Godfrey. And thanks to the publisher for the eARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I read Jennie Godfrey’s The List of Suspicious Things last year and absolutely loved it, so was excited to read The Barbecue at No.9.
The book’s backdrop is The Live Aid Concert in 1985, a momentous day where people came together to watch it on television with friends and family. The residents of Delmont Close come together at Lydia Gordon’s house for a barbecue and to watch the concert.
I loved how the book was structured counting down the hours of the concert with the performing artists and how it moved between the different neighbours. Neighbours come together and secrets come to light. I found the characters interesting and believable. It’s a page turner of a book and I just wanted to know how it was going to pan out.
Huge thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Random House UK, Cornerstone | Hutchinson Heinemann, for making this e-ARC available to me in exchange for a fair and honest review.
The book’s backdrop is The Live Aid Concert in 1985, a momentous day where people came together to watch it on television with friends and family. The residents of Delmont Close come together at Lydia Gordon’s house for a barbecue and to watch the concert.
I loved how the book was structured counting down the hours of the concert with the performing artists and how it moved between the different neighbours. Neighbours come together and secrets come to light. I found the characters interesting and believable. It’s a page turner of a book and I just wanted to know how it was going to pan out.
Huge thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Random House UK, Cornerstone | Hutchinson Heinemann, for making this e-ARC available to me in exchange for a fair and honest review.
December 27, 2025
WOW. When I read The List of Suspicious Things, I said that Jennie Godfrey had written a special, special book. She has only gone and done it again!!
The Barbecue at No.9 has a completely different setting than TLOST but every thing that made that first book so special and memorable is effortlessly transferred to this new novel because of how brilliant a writer Jennie is.
I was born about six weeks before Live Aid but Jennie drops you, as the reader, into Delmont Close and paints the scene so vividly that you can imagine being right there with everyone at the Gordons’ barbecue in July 1985.
For me, Jennie’s greatest strength is in how she creates her characters and that skill is flawlessly executed here. I was rooting for so many of the residents of Delmont Close and they felt like real people.
The whole story comes together brilliantly.
A massive thanks again to Jennie and her team at Hutchinson Heinemann for my copy of the book.
The Barbecue at No.9 has a completely different setting than TLOST but every thing that made that first book so special and memorable is effortlessly transferred to this new novel because of how brilliant a writer Jennie is.
I was born about six weeks before Live Aid but Jennie drops you, as the reader, into Delmont Close and paints the scene so vividly that you can imagine being right there with everyone at the Gordons’ barbecue in July 1985.
For me, Jennie’s greatest strength is in how she creates her characters and that skill is flawlessly executed here. I was rooting for so many of the residents of Delmont Close and they felt like real people.
The whole story comes together brilliantly.
A massive thanks again to Jennie and her team at Hutchinson Heinemann for my copy of the book.
November 26, 2025
I still haven't got around to reading Jennie Godfrey's huge debut success, 'The List of Suspicious Things,' but when I saw her new novel on Goodreads I decided to jump right in.
The Barbecue at No. 9 is set in, and around, the Live Aid concert of 1985. I was at university at this time, so I remember it well and all of the issues around this time. Hanna Gordon lives at No. 9 Demont Close with her parents and younger brother. Mother Lydia is socially ambitious and decides to hold a barbecue and invite the neighbours. However, the day will reveal secrets, not only among the other residents but also within her own household.
This novel reveals the social values, norms and attitudes of the time. From single parents to the Falklands, this novel holds an interesting mirror to a time period which I recall well. This is not nostalgia by any standards, but I thought it was
The Barbecue at No. 9 is set in, and around, the Live Aid concert of 1985. I was at university at this time, so I remember it well and all of the issues around this time. Hanna Gordon lives at No. 9 Demont Close with her parents and younger brother. Mother Lydia is socially ambitious and decides to hold a barbecue and invite the neighbours. However, the day will reveal secrets, not only among the other residents but also within her own household.
This novel reveals the social values, norms and attitudes of the time. From single parents to the Falklands, this novel holds an interesting mirror to a time period which I recall well. This is not nostalgia by any standards, but I thought it was
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