To me, books and travel have always been very closely linked. I feel that when you read a book, you get to know that place. You understand, in some way, how it ticks. Whether James Bond’s tracking Dr No to his desert island lair, Jason Bourne’s fighting for his life between the high-rise towers of Hong Kong, or Lin working for the Bombay mafia, there’s something about a great story that transports you across space and time. Whist I love reading the works of travel writers, both modern and from generations past, there’s something about the pace of a novel that roots me to the page. It’s through the words connect me to the place – even before stepping off the plane. Of course, I’ve nothing against the Kerouacs and Therouxs of this world – but a good old-fashioned car chase, a punch up, on an explosion or two, never goes amiss. In this podcast I share eight of my favourite fast-paced books, whose narratives drag you through the streets of cities all across the world. You’ll find classics that have stood the test of time, new stories from independent authors, and maybe a name or two you’ve heard me mention before. The podcast is sponsored by Bookitlist If you’re looking for unique travel adventures both near and far, make bookitlist.co your first port of call. While you’re there, if you like the sound of anything you see, you can add it to your online book-it-list to take advantage of great discounts when you book. Have you got a story to share? Have you planned the trip of a lifetime and want to tell me about it? [email protected] www.instagram.com/lukerichaa Check out all the books mentioned on Amazon Read my book, Koh Tao, for free Leo’s looking for the perfect place to propose to the love of his life. When they arrive in the Thai tropical paradise of Koh Tao, he thinks he’s found it. But before he gets an answer, she’s nowhere to be seen. www.lukerichardsonauthor.com