Two big birthdays, two babies, one book festival and a wedding!
Well, that sounds a bit like a good title for a film, doesn’t it? However, the Leek Loves
Books team have rather a lot on this year but we’re well prepared. Today’s planning meeting
saw our programme of talks, panels and workshops all coming together with just a few small
details to finalise. We hope to have our programme go ‘live’ very soon now, so keep a look
out on our website mid-February.
This year, following feedback, we have expanded our offer for children with a return visit
from Creeping Toad who will be telling his wonderful stories within the Foxlowe gardens.
The Foxlowe will house all of our children’s authors and special events with highlights
including- Marc Makes Comics from Macclesfield with his cartoon drawing workshops,
author and illustrator Matt Buckingham who will be reading his beautifully illustrated
children’s books with illustration workshops with more to be confirmed.
Over in Moorlands House, the Author’s Hub will showcase the works of over 30 authors
displaying a whole range of genres for you to browse, purchase and keep your ‘to be read’
pile growing to mountainous heights! Throughout the day we will have a programme of
author talks and panels alongside 2 creative writing workshops.
We’ve also sneaked in some fabulous book-themed craft workshops which will take place
ahead of the festival with several also taking place on the day. These workshops have
limited spaces and tickets can be purchased in advance as soon as details have been
finalised.
Sounds exciting! Do check out some of our other events taking place in the weeks
surrounding the festival which include the very popular Weeping Bank Library Ghost Story
Readings, a poetry workshop with award-wining poet, Roger Elkin, a Poetry and Prose
evening, Performance Poet Andy Gilbert (this one is strictly for over 18s as it is a bit
naughty)!
And finally, we’re inviting all book clubs to take part in a Great Big Book Club during festival
week. One book, one author, many discussions! Interested? Do get in touch with us via our
email leeklovesbooks@gmail.com to register your interest and for further details.
We’re really looking forward to seeing everyone at our festival in June and keep checking
our website to book your spaces at talks, panels and workshops.
Sam & The Leek Loves Books Team
Upcoming events
Author Interview: Chris Turnbull.
Do you outline your books in advance, or do you prefer to let the story unfold as you write?
In my earlier novels I used to just write and see where the story took me. I found this really fun and would keep me on my toes. However in recent years I have started a detective series set in Whitby, and this has seen me changing how I approach writing my books as these require more plotting out to ensure I know the "Who, what and whys" so I can leave clue, hints and red herrings throughout the story to keep the reader guessing.
What inspired the main idea or premise of your current book?
My current series is my Detective Matthews books set in Whitby. These books happened purely by accident, as the main character appeared in a different book I wrote, again set in Whitby, and I found myself wanting to explore him some more, and so I went back to the beginning of his career and the first book was born. Initially I thought it would be a stand-alone book but I have enjoyed things character so much I've recently finished the fourth book in the series.
What is your favorite scene in your book, and why does it resonate with you?
With my books being set in the past I love to research times gone by. In the third book in my Detective Matthews series (Illusions of Murder) I wanted a lot of the book to be set in a theatre, and an illusionist to be a central character to the plot. One of the chapters details part of his performance and I had so much fun writing this, and using research on Victorian performers to help me make it as authentic as possible.
What has been the most rewarding part of being an author so far?
Being a published author there can be many hurdles, including writers block, self doubt, bad reviews and much more, so it's hugely important to enjoy the rewarding moments when they happen. For me the biggest reward is when I am doing events around the country it is extremely rewarding when a reader who has enjoyed one of your books returns to buy another book, and enjoys talking about what they enjoyed about them.
What was your path to becoming a published author?
Was it as you envisioned, or were there surprises along the way?
It often surprises people when I admit that being published was never my goal. I know how negative the online world can be, and so I was always too nervous to put my work out there, especially when I loved writing just for me. However I'm pleased I was eventually talked into it as it's been one of the best experiences of my life.
Do you have any advice for aspiring writers looking to break into the industry?
Write for you, don't try writing to please others. You have to enjoy and be proud of what you do. Some people may not enjoy your story, but there will be those who love it.
Are there any genres or styles you’d like to explore in the future?
As a multi genre author I already have books published in historical fiction/crime fiction as well as children's books, however I have always wanted to bridge that gap and write a YA series, which I have been planning for a couple of years now and plan to start working on fully in 2025.
Thank you Chris for all these fascinating answers. Where can readers connect with you online or follow your journey?
Readers can find my books in paperback or Kindle on Amazon. I also post regularly on Instagram and in my Facebook group "Chris & Olly Books" with book news, and events you can find me at. All my links can be found here: https://linktr.ee/christurnbullauthor
Book Review: The Little Friend by Donna Tartt
What is The Little Friend by Donna Tartt about?
The Little Friend is a suspenseful novel that follows twelve-year-old Harriett Vane, who embarks on a mission to solve the murder of her brother, who was killed when she was just a baby. Set in a small Southern town, Harriett, with her fierce determination and sharp intelligence, uncovers dark secrets about her family and the community. The novel explores themes of grief, family dynamics, and the loss of innocence.
How does Tartt portray the protagonist, Harriett?
Tartt paints Harriett as an intriguing and complex character. She is resourceful, bold, and somewhat unconventional for her age. Her relentless pursuit of the truth, even when it puts her in danger, makes her an interesting and sympathetic protagonist, though her stubbornness and occasional naivety can also be seen as flaws.
What is the overall tone of the book?
The tone of The Little Friend is dark, atmospheric, and tense. Tartt builds a sense of mystery and foreboding throughout the novel, and the Southern setting adds to the overall eerie mood. There is a palpable sense of dread as Harriett's investigation unravels hidden truths, creating an unsettling atmosphere that keeps the reader engaged.
Would you recommend this book?
Yes, especially if you enjoy literary thrillers with rich character development and a compelling mystery. Tartt’s writing is exquisite, and although the novel’s pacing is slower than typical thrillers, the intricate plotting and haunting atmosphere make it a rewarding read for those who appreciate a thoughtful and detailed narrative.
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And thats all for now folks. Thank you if you have signed up and read our second newsletter. You can meet the authors confirmed for the festival below and tickets for Weeping Bank are live on their website for June 3rd, as well as the outrageously funny Andy Gilbert on 30th May. More to follow :)
Love, Rachel @ Leek Loves Books.
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