Yesterday’s show seemed to go OK, despite the long layoff. I don’t think I have lost my touch, which is a relief. And I managed to cope OK with the new (temporary) studio. Thanks are due as ever to Valentin for making things happen when I need them to.

The first hour was all about books. I started out with Sarah Hilary talking about her Marnie Rome novels. Someone Else’s Skin has just been long-listed for the Theakstons Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year Award. Most of the discussion, however, was about the new book, No Other Darkness. We talked about killing children, pointing fingers, preppers, the role of crime fiction in the world, and the amazing talent of Lauren Beukes.

Sarah was followed in the hot seat by Pete Newman. We talked about being a two-writer household, sexism in the book business, babies, goats, demons, singing swords and the genius of Akira Kurosawa. We also talked briefly about Tea and Jeopardy, and there was a brief appearance by Latimer.

You can listen to the first hour here.

The second hour followed on from my article on sanitary products for Bristol 24/7. I had a pre-record interview with Chloe Tingle, and then two of her colleagues, Frances Lucraft and Michelle Graabek, joined Judeline and I in the studio to discuss the issues raised. The Talk Period is now live, so if you are in or around Bristol please do get involved. Frances and Michelle assure me that male-identified persons are welcome.

You can listen to the second hour here.