Sandie Jones, author of The Other Woman, has an addictive new domestic thriller out now: The First Mistake narrated by Nathalie Buscombe. Sandie filled us in on her inspiration for this story, Buscombe’s narration, and her own love of independent bookstores.
[audiobook isbn=”9781250220721″][/audiobook]
Please tell us a little bit about what inspired you to write this book and how this story took shape for you.
The First Mistake has had many lives, but the crux of it was always about a couple, the wife’s best friend and the trust between them. I didn’t know exactly where it was going, but I wanted to explore what happens when that trust is abused by those closest to you, though not in the way you might think. I read an article in a local newspaper in which a group of individuals were making an unsavoury and illegal living from gaining peoples’ trust, and, without giving anything away, it sparked something in me.
What’s something that might surprise Libro.fm listeners about your audiobook?
That it’s read in a velvety English accent!
What struck you about the narration of your audiobook?
Nathalie’s voice pulls you in from the start and there were times when I was so lost in it, so invested in what she was saying, that I forgot I’d written it and knew what was coming!
Are you an audiobook listener? If so, what are some of your favorite audiobooks?
I’ve only recently started listening to audiobooks, despite my mother telling me for years and years that it’s the only way to read a book! I loved Behind Closed Doors by BA Paris and Watching You by Lisa Jewell.
What have independent bookstores and/or booksellers meant to you personally and professionally?
Everything—both as a reader and an author. I have an independent bookshop close to where I live and I love going in and getting personal recommendations from the passionate people who work there. As an author, they’re invaluable, as I’ve known readers go in looking for my book and being told that if it’s not in stock, they can have it delivered the next day. They’re so accommodating and super-nice whenever I pop in to see if I can sign some copies. I’ve not yet had anyone say, ‘no thanks, in case we have to return them!’
Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
Only that I really hope you enjoy listening to Nathalie bringing the characters in The First Mistake to life.
