The Barbecue at No.9

It's the summer of 1985 and the residents of Delmont Close are preparing a neighbourhood barbecue to watch the biggest music event in history: Live Aid. A day like no other that will end having reached millions and changing the lives of all who attend.House-proud Lydia Gordon, whose idols are Princess Di and Delia Smith, is determined to put on a show that will impress everyone - with her posh garden and state-of-the-art television, and her sweet husband and two children, Hanna and David.But as the guests flood into number nine, so do all of the secrets that have been kept in the close.Rita, a new neighbour from Australia, is hoping for a fresh start but harbours a shocking event in her past Steve, a young Falklands veteran, battles his own demons and Mr Wilson is surely too good-looking to ever be trusted.But as the hours count down to the last performance of the night, it's Lydia who faces the heart-breaking truth that her immaculate home and flawless family might not be so perfect after all.And if each of their neighbours is guilty of hiding something, so are the Gordons at number nine ...'Brilliantly evocative and deliciously addictive. I couldn't stop reading until all the characters' secrets were revealed.' Claire Fuller'Jennie Godfrey is such a tremendous storyteller. This book doesn't shy away from the dark, while encouraging us all to embrace the light.' Daisy Buchanan'Sizzles with secrets, suspense, superbly drawn characters, and so much heart.' Nikki May'I absolutely loved it! What a joy. Great characters and just so absorbing, funny and intriguing.' Jane Fallon'A brilliantly absorbing and satisfying novel full of heart and humanity.' Cathy Rentzenbrink