Summer reads with a twist
Books from our fellow freelance journalists
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Summer is here again, so it’s time to look for books to help you chill out in the sun. Whether you are relaxing by the pool or in your back garden, these books by freelance journalists are worth adding to your list.
There is something here for everyone from travel to social justice, crime thriller to investigation. What takes your fancy?
Ultra Women by Lily Canter and Emma Wilkinson
Freelancing for Journalists founders Lily Canter and Emma Wilkinson have co-authored this book that delves into the largely unknown history of female endurance athletes. Speaking to scientists, athletes and historians, Lily and Emma examine the physical and psychological differences between men and women, and what makes women natural endurance athletes across running, swimming, cycling, adventure racing and more. An inspiring read that will make you dig out your trainers.
Anywhere But Here by Nicola Kelly
Nicola Kelly looks at the small boats crisis, and reveals the truth behind the headlines. A former Home Office insider, Nicola has seen the asylum system close up, and takes us through each stage of the process, from boats being rescued in the Channel by the understaffed Coast Guard, to the experiences of the asylum seekers themselves as they adjust to their new lives. A searing read that exposes the chaos of the asylum system.
How AI Ate The World by Chris Stokel-Walker
This eye-opening book examines the history of AI, from its origins during the Cold War to its increasing influence on our lives today. Chris meets the innovators in Silicon Valley developing the technology, and speaks to workers who have lost their jobs to AI bots. The book questions what the future holds for humanity, and if we can control AI as it becomes more intelligent.
Vengeance by Saima Mir
In this sequel to The Khan, former lawyer Jia Khan has taken over her father’s organised crime business. She discovers a notebook containing the details of her father’s arrival in the north of England in the 1970s, which sparks an old family feud. Then a body turns up in her garden, and Jia realises that there may be a traitor in the organisation. A thrilling read to occupy these light summer nights.
Catch And Kill by Ronan Farrow
In this revealing book Ronan Farrow – the son of Woody Allen and Mia Farrow – explains how he tried to disclose accounts of Harvey Weinstein’s abuse, only to face opposition from Black Cube, an Israeli intelligence service hired to kill the story. Similar to She Said by Jodi Kantor and Megan Twohey, it shows how far the rich and powerful will go to cover up their crimes. File this under ‘has to be read to be believed’.
Queenie by Candice Carty-Williams
Queenie is a 25-year-old journalist who is having something of a quarter life crisis. She has just broken up with her long term boyfriend, and constantly compares herself to her white colleagues at the newspaper she works at. To compensate, she starts dating a string of men who damage her self-esteem and cause her to question her choices. This funny, life affirming novel is a great insight into the problems Gen Z women face in both their personal and professional lives.
Fake History by Otto English
Misinformation has always felt like a modern problem, but Otto English reveals that it is anything but. In this alternative look at history he reveals the truth behind myths such as Abraham Lincoln’s statement that ‘all men were created equal’, and what Winston Churchill was really like. A witty and wise read that will make you question your school history lessons, and what we are teaching our children.
Single: Living a Complete Life on Your Own Terms by Nicola Slawson
You may know Nicola from her popular newsletter, The Single Supplement. In Single, Nicola explores being un-partnered in a world designed for couples, and how to find the joy in the life that you are already living. Whether you are newly single, long-term single, avowedly single, reluctantly so, considering leaving your current relationship or just wondering what to say to your aunt next time she asks if you'll ever get married - this book could be the one for you.
The Wizard of Fleet Street...and Me: A Memoir by Alix Kirsta
In this memoir with a difference, Alix takes us behind the scenes of a vanished era of journalism, the last days of Fleet Street's ‘Golden Age’, we are also given insights into the workings of TV and theatre, the glamorous worlds of glossy magazines, fashion and the health and beauty industry with its cosmetics divas, experts and gurus. A fascinating read that takes a look on how an unexpected mentor can change your path.
Off the Ground,Paul McCartney in the 1990s by JR Moore
As resident psych-rock columnist for both The Quietus and Record Collector, Moores knows what he’s talking about when it comes to music journalism. In his latest book he takes a look at Paul McCartney in the 1990s, taking you through impressive studio and live albums, colossal tours, unexpected side projects and imaginative collaborations, forays into classical composition, some new Beatles numbers among other things.
Where the Light is Hottest by Catherine Yardley
This is the second novel from freelance writer and editor Catherine Yardley. Where the Light is the Hottest is a gripping tale of ambition, perseverance and the enduring power of hope. Through the protagonist Natasha, the book takes an unflinching look at what it feels like for a woman to succeed as an actor in a cut-throat industry.
Crowded Platforms and Window Seats: One Family's Interrail Adventure by Judy Yorke
If you’ve ever wondered about Interrailing around Europe or done it yourself, you’ll love this entertaining account of a family’s adventures involving 3,000 train miles, 16 locations and a suitcase with a squeaky wheel. Judy intersperses their adventures with tales from her first trip 30 years earlier.
Believable Lies: The Misfits Who Fought Churchill's Secret Propaganda War by Terry Stiastny
The history buffs among you may be interested by this fascinating account of the misfits and mavericks who waged psychological warfare against the Nazis. Terry details the politicians, journalists, novelists and spies, advertisers, artists and even forgers, who came together in September 1939 to form a covert government organisation to ‘weaken enemy morale, sow confusion and encourage resistance’.
Small Earthquakes: A Journey Through Lost British History in South America by Shafik Meghji
One of many on this list who have been on the FFJ podcast, Shafik’s recently published latest book uncovers the fascinating story of Britain’s forgotten connections with South America, from the Atacama Desert to Tierra del Fuego, Easter Island to South Georgia. A mix of travel writing, history and reportage, prepare yourself for tales of footballers and pirates, nitrate kings and wool barons, polar explorers and cowboys, missionaries and radical MPs.
The Revenge Plot by Jackie Kabler
And last but by no means least we have the latest psychological crime thriller from journalist, TV presenter and best-selling author Jackie Kabler. Be prepared for fast-paced twists and turns as Ella Leonard finds out her life is coming apart piece by piece. Sounds like the perfect summer read to us!
Lots of you got in touch with us to say you had books coming out later this year or next year so we look forward to sharing them next Summer!
Freelance Journalism Awards 2025
The only awards dedicated to highlighting the essential contributions of UK freelance journalists are back. You have to be in it to win it! There are six categories for 2025 and you have until midnight on the 29th of August to get your submissions in. As always it is FREE to enter the awards and you can enter as many of the six categories as you like (although only one entry per category). Find out more about the categories, criteria and how to enter at the link below.
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Triumph of the week
Successful work trip to London
That feeling when
Lots of invoices all get paid at once and you can dive into your money pile ;-)
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Bye for now!
 | A guest post by
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Thanks for the recs. My TBR mountain has just grown significantly!