Jennie Godfrey's 'The Barbecue at No 9' Audiobook Review: Secrets and Lies in Suburbia
In the summer of 1985, just two days before the historic Live Aid charity concert, which aimed to raise funds for famine relief in Ethiopia, a suburban cul-de-sac becomes the stage for a gripping tale of family tensions and hidden truths. Jennie Godfrey's latest audiobook, The Barbecue at No 9, masterfully blends mystery with sharp period detail, offering listeners an immersive experience into the everyday lives of its characters.
A Suspicious Gathering on Delmont Close
The story centers on the Gordon family, where teenage goth Hanna is tasked by her mother, Lydia, with distributing invitations for a neighbourhood get-together. Ostensibly held "in aid of the children," Hanna suspects Lydia's motives might be more about showcasing their new barbecue than charity. Her father, Peter, voices his reluctance, complaining about the cost of feeding the entire street. As Hanna navigates her own secret from the family, she delivers the invitations, unaware of a mysterious figure lurking in the shadows, adding an eerie layer to the suburban setting.
When Lydia spots this same figure skulking in their garden the next day, it becomes clear that something sinister is unfolding on Delmont Close. This multi-voiced narrative, told from the perspectives of various neighbours, is perfectly suited for audio, enhancing the sense of community and intrigue.
Stellar Cast Brings Characters to Life
The audiobook production features a talented cast that brings depth to the characters. Raffey Cassidy voices Hanna, capturing her teenage angst and secrets, while Stephen Mangan plays the longsuffering Peter with comic timing. Josh Dylan portrays Steve, a Falklands veteran grappling with PTSD, and Gemma Whelan shines as Rita, a fortysomething Australian newcomer to the Close who harbours her own secrets. This ensemble performance, available via Penguin Audio with a runtime of 8 hours and 42 minutes, elevates the storytelling, making it a compelling listen.
As a follow-up to Godfrey's successful The List of Suspicious Things, this novel continues her signature style of combining mystery with close-up renditions of ordinary lives, set against a backdrop of 1980s nostalgia. The period details, from the Live Aid concert to suburban dynamics, add authenticity and depth, immersing listeners in a world where secrets simmer beneath the surface.
Further Listening Recommendations
For those intrigued by this audiobook, additional recommendations include No Friend to This House by Natalie Haynes, a reimagining of the Medea myth read by the author, and Fly, Wild Swans by Jung Chang, a sequel focusing on China's rise, narrated by Adjoa Andoh. These titles offer diverse narratives that complement the themes of secrecy and drama found in Godfrey's work.
