On Site Programme | Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival 2023

2023 Festival: At A Glance

Thursday 20 July

9-5.30pm Crea�ve Thursday Ballroom

8.00pm Theakston Old Peculier Crime Awards Theakston Stage

Friday 21 July

9.00am Special Guest Val McDermid Theakston Stage

10.30am Star�ng With a Scream Theakston Stage

10.30am An�que Hunters Guide to Murder with CL Miller Dead Giveaways Tent

11.00am The Orion Incident Room: Historical Crime Library

12.00pm Law & Disorder Theakston Stage

12.00pm The Orion Incident Room: How Fact Inspired Fic�on Library

1.00pm Meet & Greet with Mick Herron Bowling Green Tent

1.00pm The Orion Incident Room: Stars of 2024 Library

2.00pm Literary Crime Theakston Stage

2.00pm Dead Giveaways 1 & 2 Dead Giveaways Tent

3.15pm Wri�ng Spies In The Shadow Of Bond Bowling Green Tent

3.30pm Obsession Makes the World Go Round Theakston Stage

4.00pm Dead Giveaways 3 & 4 Dead Giveaways Tent

5.00pm Lisa Jewell & Ruth Ware in Conversa�on Theakston Stage

6.15pm Friday Night Author Dinner Wedgewood

6.30pm Words! Camera! Ac�on! Theakston Stage

8.30pm Special Guest Ann Cleeves Theakston Stage

8.30pm Murder a Love Song, Karaoke Moment with Orion Library

10.00pm Fun Lovin’ Crime Writers Ballroom

Saturday 22 July

9.00am S.A. Cosby & Chris Hammer in Conversa�on Theakston Stage

9.30am Grill a ‘Killer’ Library

10.30am Modern Gumshoes, PI for Hire Theakston Stage

10.30am The Rejuvena�on Clinic Dead Giveaways Tent

11.00am The Honeymoon, Brunch Cocktails with Kate Gray Masham Tent

11.00am Grill a ‘Killer Library

12.00pm New Blood with Val McDermid Theakston Stage

12.15pm The Wedding Guest with A.E. Gauntlet Bowling Green Tent

12.30pm Grill a ‘Killer’ Library

12.30pm The Silent Pa�ent with Alex Michaelides

Main Hotel Entrance

1.00pm Big Read with Luca Veste & Ann Cleeves Ballroom

1.00pm A Tribute to Peter Robinson

The Reflec�on Garden

2.00pm Presumed Guilty Theakston Stage

2.00pm Grill a ‘Killer’ The Library

2.00pm Dead Giveaways 5 & 6 Dead Giveaways Tent

3.30pm Murder Most Joyful

Theakston Stage

3.30pm Grill a ‘Killer’ Library

3.30pm The Po�ng Shed Murder with Paula Su�on Main Hotel Entrance

4.00pm All of Us Are Broken: A�ernoon tea with Fiona Cummins Dead Giveaways Tent

5.00pm Special Guest Jeffery Deaver Theakston Stage

5.00pm Janice Halle�’s Christmas Party (in Summer!) Masham Tent

6.00pm Dead Giveaways 7 & 8 Dead Giveaways Tent

6.15pm Saturday Night Author Dinner Wedgewood

8.30pm Special Guests Lee Child & Andrew Child Theakston Stage

10.00pm Late Night Quiz Theakston Stage

Sunday 23 July

9.00am The Never Ending Golden Age Theakston Stage

10.30am When Sally Killed Harry Theakston Stage

12.00pm Special Guest Lucy Worsley Theakston Stage

Key: event included as part of a Weekend Rover �cket event included as part of a Friday Rover �cket event included as part of a Saturday Rover �cket

Events in Black are part of the Theaskton Old Peculier Crime Wri�ng Fes�val Programme. Events in Gold are Fringe events organised by our partners. Please refer to the Fringe Event page for more informa�on and loca�on – P42

All events take place at The Old Swan Hotel, Swan Road, Harrogate, HG1 2SR. Please note that outdoor ac�va�ons may need to be relocated weather depending, and will be clearly signposted on the day.

Welcome to the Festival

Vaseem Khan

2023 Festival Programming Chair

Welcome to the twentieth Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival. Twenty years! Not since the days of the Colosseum has a blood-soaked bacchanalia incited such feverish anticipation. While we can’t promise lions or chariot races, we can certainly offer plenty of murder and mayhem – and that’s just in the bar.

As the first British Asian crime writer to chair the Festival, I can’t help but think of how crime fiction has led the charge in embracing inclusivity in publishing; and we see this in the wonderfully broad church the Festival now represents. This year we’ve pulled out all the stops: big names, huge debuts, crime writers from all over the world risking life and limb to entertain you. None of this could happen without a programming team so frighteningly efficient they could double up as a gang of Ninja assassins . . . Frankly, if you love crime fiction, then Harrogate is the only place to be this July. Don’t make me send the lions after you.

Simon Theakston Executive Director T&R Theakston

A very warm welcome to Harrogate,

Our annual Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival, as an anchor in the turbulent sea of life, is about the only thing we can rely on to remain a constant in these days of dizzying change. With three prime ministers and four chancellors since we last gathered a year ago for example, a fact not even the most vivid of crime writers could possibly have made up, surely there can be no other year like the one we’ve just seen!

But here we are about to raise the curtain on the 20th Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival and so once again the opportunity for me to extend the warmest of welcomes to you all to the greatest Crime Writing Festival in the World!

Under the auspices of the outstanding 2023 Programming Chair, Vaseem Khan, the Programming Committee have put together yet another blockbuster of a Festival, with fabulous interviews, panel debates and discussions with the greatest of the world’s crime authors. This is one not to be missed.

Friends of our Festival will remember howI’ve struggled for years to compare the allure of a pint of Old Peculier with a great crime novel. I can tell you there’s nowhere it tastes better than in Harrogate in the company of all our partners in crime as we gather in the grounds of the Old Swan Hotel. Which may explain our Festival’s reputation for conviviality and longevity!

My best wishes to you all for a wonderful four days!

Who would have thought a planning mee�ng in Harrogate back in Autumn 2002 would have yielded the behemoth that the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Wri�ng Fes�val is today?

Well, if you take a look at who was around the table at the �me, it’s probably no surprise … Val McDermid, Jane Gregory, Maria Rejt and Jane Bradish-Ellames for starters. The minutes for this mee�ng read like an ac�on packed to-do list of famous celebrity friends, prac�cal sugges�ons and a clear vision for the Fes�val in the future.

What is clear is that at the heart of this plan were the readers, with outreach work in schools and communi�es a key part of the vision. We set out to create a Fes�val that focused exclusively on crime wri�ng, to set it apart and avoid replica�ng the prolifera�on of literature fes�vals across the UK, and that all par�cipa�ng authors would be paid. The Fes�val ‘needed to have commercial appeal’ for a sponsor, and any Programming Chair must be a well-known crime writer. With fellow Programming Commi�ee members made up from key industries including an agent, bookseller and publisher. Overall, the vision was to ‘establish the Fes�val as the UK’s number 1 Crime Wri�ng Event’.

Twenty years on the vision s�ll remains true; and thanks to a host of generous people, we have grown into the Fes�val that each July is recognised as the ‘Glastonbury of Crime’ or the ‘Hay on Wye of the Crime World’ depending on who you’re speaking to!

A huge vote of thanks must go to the many, many people who have sat on the Programming Commi�ee, including a host of fabulous Programming Chairs, our generous sponsors, Readers in Residence, and everyone who has helped and cheered from the sidelines, backstage and onstage. It really has been an amazing experience to have worked on this event since its incep�on un�l today, and we are so incredibly lucky to have so many amazing supporters. My final thanks, however, go to our �tle sponsor, who way back in 2004 came on board as a major sponsor for the Fes�vals, and has remained loyal and generous to us ever since. Simon Theakston o�en tells me that a great crime novel is like a pint of Old Peculier, but we also know that our great Fes�val has achieved success thanks to a fantas�c, innova�ve and quality brand and the generosity and friendship of Simon Theakston and his company, T&R Theakston.

Sharon Canavar Chief Executive of Harrogate International Festivals

Celebra�ng 20 years of Theakston Old Peculier Crime Wri�ng Fes�val

“Harrogate 2003 was the trailblazer for UK book fes�vals dedicated to celebra�ng crime wri�ng in all its glory. We showed that not only could it be done successfully, it could be done in an atmosphere of congeniality, collegiality and comedy gold. Many have followed in its footsteps, but Harrogate remains the des�na�ondate in the calendar for anyone who loves murder and mayhem.”

Val McDermid

“Who knew when we laid plans to create a crime wri�ng fes�val what the Theakston’s Crime Fes�val in Harrogate would become?

It has been the highlight of my life! The fes�val has helped raise the profile and the status of crime wri�ng, as well as helping to build the careers of so many authors. Added to which, authors from all over the world have discovered the delights of Harrogate, Yorkshire and Theakston’s beer. I am honoured to have been part of building this.”

Jane Gregory

“It was wonderful to have been part of the original team which launched the Harrogate Fes�val of Crime Wri�ng 20 years ago. To see it grow into one of the most popular events in the fes�val calendar, with crime fic�on authors and fans returning year a�er year, is the true testament to its appeal. I’d especially like to thank Val McDermid, Jane Gregory and Jane Bradish-Ellames for all the great �mes we had together in Harrogate.

Under the fantas�c stewardship of Sharon and her team I know the Fea�val will con�nue to thrive for many decades to come.”

Maria Rejt | Publishing Director | Mantle

“Providing readers and writers alike with what is always the most enjoyable weekend of the year, the Theakstons old Peculier Crime Wri�ng Fes�val is quite simply the biggest and best there is. It’s the Glastonbury of crime fes�vals…but with be�er toilets.”

Mark Billingham

"Lovely place, lovely people, relaxed schedule, great organiza�on ... they call it work, but it's pure fun for me."

Lee Child

“So many wonderful (if poignant) memories - my headline events with Peter Robinson and William McIlvanney stand out. Harrogate is a fes�val that wears its greatness with the lightest and most welcoming of touches.”

Ian Rankin

“The Theakston Old Peculier Crime Fes�val has been a real game-changer over the past 20 years. It has proved not only that there is a massive public appe�te for a large-scale crime fic�on fes�val, but also that some of the most popular panels involve debut authors – the con�nued success of Val McDermid’s curated New Blood panel is proof of that. I was there at the fantas�cally successful first fes�val 20 years ago, have a�ended (I think!) 15 of the 20 years, and have been so heartened to see the way it has gone from strength to strength. It’s one of the most important literary fes�vals in the UK and as someone with roots in crime fic�on I love the impact it has had in terms of the wider culture, showing that crime wri�ng is every bit as prize-worthy and intricately cra�ed as any other form of wri�ng.”

David Shelley | Group CEO Hache�e UK

“Harrogate is the pivotal point in the Bri�sh crime wri�ng calendar. It's a glorious long weekend for all of us, as writers, readers and fans to meet and speak with those we love and admire and envy so much we'd like to kill and eat them.”

Denise Mina

We’d be thrilled to receive your celebratory messages!

Feel free to DM us to help us celebrate on our social media channels, or email info@harrogate-fes�val.org.uk

Plotted by HIF

Harrogate Interna�onal Fes�vals

welcomes you to Harrogate for a weekend of thrilling crime fic�on. It’s one of the many Harrogate Interna�onal Fes�val events, crea�vely plo�ed throughout the year, bringing leading global ar�sts and immersive experiences to Harrogate.

January – April

Harrogate International Sunday Series

Chamber music concerts and coffee in the magnificent surroundings of the Old Swan Hotel.

June

The Big Read

“The North’s biggest book club”, encouraging as many people as possible to read a classic work of crime fiction, increasing links across the region between libraries and reading groups, and inspiring new readers.

June – July

Harrogate Music Festival

Featuring the best of international musical talent spanning classical, jazz and folk, as well as hosting the prestigious Young Musicians Series.

July

Theakston Old Peculier

Crime Writing Festival

World class, award-winning programme of events celebrating the very best in crime fiction.

Carnival

A celebration of music, food and crafts from around the world, featuring parade and street theatre for all the family.

October

Raworths Harrogate Literature Festival

Bringing bestselling authors, influential politicians, and stars of the stage to share their stories.

HIF+ Year Round

Berwins Salon North

A yearly programme of inspired TED talk style events, exploring stimulating ideas in art, science, and psychology.

HIF Player

Our digital platform hosting online events, talks and concerts as well as our online crime Festival You’re Booked featuring our monthly Book of the Month.

To see our full year-round programme and be kept up to date, please visit harrogateinternationalfestivals.com

Wherever you are on that journey, whether the first page or the final dra�, Crea�ve Thursday has what you need to make that dream come true. Covering all aspects of the business – including giving you the chance to pitch your book to those at the top of the tree – Crea�ve Thursday is immersive, instruc�ve and invaluable. The day is set up to let you tap into a wealth of knowledge and experience shared by bestselling crime writers, editors, agents and publishers, and to make sure you leave armed with everything you need to turn your great idea into a great book.

Alterna�ve Publishing: Rachel Abbo�, Mark Edwards, Ruth Tross and N.J. Cooper.

The Pitch: with N.J. Cooper.

Inside The Head: Using Psychology In Crime Fic�on: Graham Bartle� and Dr. Chris Merri�.

In A Dark Wood; How To Keep Going In The Middle Of Your Book: Claire McGowan.

Dragon’s Pen: Mark Billingham, Finn Co�on, Juliet Mushens, Maddalena Cavaciu� and Ruth Tross.

Friends of the Festival

BecomingaFriendoftheFes�valisoneofthebest ways to enjoy all that the Harrogate Interna�onal Fes�vals have to offer, from big name stars, to in�mate concerts and hidden gems.

Whether you want to get more involved with our arts charity, or if you are simply looking to enjoy the benefits available to you whilst at the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Wri�ng Fes�val, as well as at our full por�olio of Fes�vals, join the Friends of the Fes�vals today from as li�le as £30.

With benefits including:

• Priority booking up to a week ahead of �ckets going on general sale. *

£110

Sponsored by

• Priority entrance to the Live Event Tent (before the crowd) with your membership card so you can get the best seats in the house.

• Advance details of exclusive publisher events on site before the crowd.

• Access to the Friends Lounge on site.**

Join today online harrogateinterna�onalfes�vals.com/fes�val-friends or by calling

*Although we cannot guarantee availability of �ckets, by being a Friend, you will have up to one week ahead of the public to order your �ckets. ** At certain events only and will require an event �cket.

20 JULY 2023 | Thursday | 8pm

Theakston Old Peculier Crime Awards and Party

Join 6 nervous shortlisted authors – and a small army of their peers – as they await the announcement of the genre’s most coveted �tle: The Theakston Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year Award.

The coveted

Old

Crime Novel of the Year Award, dubbed the crime wri�ng fraternity’s equivalent of the Oscars, with a pint of Yorkshire’s finest thrown in, kicks off the 2023 Fes�val in style.

An icon of the genre will also be honoured with the Theakston Old Peculier Outstanding Contribu�on to Crime Fic�on accolade.

Celebra�ons con�nue with the official Fes�val Opening Party.

Signing for the Shortlisted Authors will take place at 7.00pm, prior to the Awards.

Theakston

Peculier

MW Craven @MWCravenUK Fiona Cummins @fionaanncummins Elly Griffiths @ellygriffiths

Doug Johnstone @doug_johnstone

Gillian McAllister @GillianMAuthor Ruth Ware @RuthWAreWriter

Special Guest: Val McDermid £17

A living legend, a na�onal treasure and quite simply, one of the greatest writers the crime fic�on genre has ever known. Val McDermid is the author of 38 outstanding novels, a body of work unrivalled in the modern age. As an original founder of the TheakstonOldPeculierCrimeWri�ngFes�val,itseemedonlyfi�ngtohaveValasour opener event as we celebrate two decades of crime.

She is the creator of several unforge�able protagonists including Lindsay Gordon, Tony Hill and Carol Jordan, Kate Brannigan, and most recently, Allie Burns. Several have leapt from page to screen, including the brilliant Karen Pirie who was brought to life in a major ITV series last autumn.

Val’s most recent novel, the spellbinding 1989, is the second in an ambi�ous series of five books chronicling both the career of Allie Burns and the ever-changing world in which she fights to survive and uncover the truth.

Val McDermid will be interviewed by bestseller author Mark Billingham

Starting with a Scream

Hook ‘em early and don’t let them go. These four authors know the secret of a killer opening scene and will dissect it for your delecta�on. Interna�onal bestseller Simon Toyne u�lises all the tricks of his former TV trade to kickstart his eerie new thriller, The Clearing Liz Nugent has reeled off four no.1 bestsellers in a row, and her dazzling fi�h book, Strange Sally Diamond, showcases her gi� for fiendishly clever openings. Will Carver is the twisted mind behind a series of highly original novels, the latest of which is the mesmeric Suicide Thursday. CJ Tudor is the master of the macabre, and the brutally fast-paced The Dri� is her most terrifying chiller yet. Fiona Cummins, author of All Of Us Are Broken, is in the chair.

10.30am

£14

Simon Toyne @simontoyne

Liz Nugent @lizzienugent

Will Carver @will_carver

CJ Tudor @cjtudor

Fiona Cummins @fionaanncummins

Sponsored by

Val McDermid @valmcdermid

Mark Billingham @markbillingham

legal thrillers make John Grisham seem like a maiden aunt'

Sunday Times Crime Club

PREPARE FOR THE NIGHTMARE TO BEGIN...

Law & Disorder

Four masters of the art discuss whether the end jus�fies the means when police officers cross the line. Former Met detec�ve Neil Lancaster’s blistering new thriller Blood Runs Cold pushes DS Max Craigie’s integrity to the limit. Cara Hunter has taken over the mantle of Oxford’s top cop writer and the heart-pumping Murder in the Family is a twisty masterpiece. Jane Casey’s Kerrigan and Derwent series sets the standard for police procedurals and her latest, The Close, sees her cops blur the lines like never before. Criminal solicitor Nadine Matheson made a searing start to her fic�on career with The Jigsaw Man, and The Binding Room is a sensa�onal follow-up. Top cop turned bestseller Graham Bartle� is in charge.

Literary Crime

Great crime fic�on is literally literary, and as good as any highbrow offering. When you’ve got prose and plot, you’ve got the lot, and these four writers are rightly acclaimed for their wordsmithery. Will Dean’s electrifying thriller, The Last Passenger, is a seagoing suspense that dips and twists like the perfect storm. The Square of Sevens is an epic, sprawling wonder of an historical novel proving Laura Shepherd-Robinson’s talent for language and storytelling. Abir Mukherjee’s highly celebrated Wyndham and Banerjee series vividly brings Raj-era India to life with its wealth of stylish wri�ng. Jacob Ross has welded his literary skills to heart-stopping plot in two extraordinary crime novels, the most recent of which is Black Rain Falling. Number one bestseller SJ Parris chairs proceedings.

12pm

2pm

Neil Lancaster @neillancaster66

Cara Hunter @carahunterbooks Jane Casey @janecaseyauthor

Nadine Matheson @nadinematheson Graham Bartlett @gbpoliceadvisor £14

Sponsored by

Will Dean @willrdean

Laura ShepherdRobinson @laurarobinson

Abir Mukherjee @radiomukhers

Jacob Ross @rosswriterj

SJ Parris @thestephmerritt £14

Obsession Makes the World Go Round 3.30pm

Simmering secrets, fatal fascina�ons and poisonous passions make for the darkest of deeds. Meet four writers who reach into the roots of our psyche to create creepily compulsive tales. Sarah Hilary’s breath-taking Black Thorn feeds on the dark shadows of human nature, asking what we really know about our neighbours. Dorothy Koomson’s My Other Husband is a whip-smart, gripping thriller about the fears underpinning a complex web of lies. Mark Edwards has a gi� for irresis�ble thrillers pu�ng ordinary people in extraordinary situa�ons; the pulsa�ng Keep Her Secret is his latest. Alex North has a devilish ability to play on our innermost fears and he unleashes them fully in the spine�ngling The Half Burnt House Erin Kelly, author of The Skeleton Key, will chair.

In conversation

£14

Lisa Jewell and Ruth Ware 5pm

Spend an hour eavesdropping on two of the most talentedandsuccessfulwritersatworktoday. Lisa Jewell and Ruth Ware have both topped global bestseller lists while pushing the boundaries of the genre; leading crime fic�on in new and exci�ng direc�ons.

Lisa is published in over 25 languages and has sold more than 10 million books worldwide. The queen of psychological suspense, she effortlessly and expertly leads readers down twis�ng dark alleys. Her latest novel istheaddic�veandunse�ling None of This is True.Ruth’s firstsevennovelshavebeentranslatedinto40languages and deservedly have garnered an army of ardent fans across the world. From In a Dark, Dark Wood to The It Girl, she has displayed a unique talent for storytelling, at once both classic and innova�ve.

£17

Sarah Hilary @sarah_hilary

Lisa Jewell @lisajewelluk

Ruth Ware @RuthWareWriter

Dorothy Koomson @dorothykoomson

Mark Edwards @mredwards

Alex North @writer_north

Erin Kelly @mserinkelly

Sponsored by

Friday Night Author Dinner

Whodunnit? That’s the ques�on on everyone’s lips at the author dinner – along with good food, wine and conversa�on. Your table will be hosted by a leading crime writer who will lend their insight, experience and skill – or failing that, their best guess – to iden�fy the perpetrator of the dastardly crime in the murder mystery that will be acted out for your delight, deflec�on and diversion. Knives, forks and sharp wits at the ready, let’s eat.

So get ready to crack the case with Rachel Abbo�, Amen Alonge, Jenny Blackhurst, Jo Callaghan, A.A. Chaudhuri, Mahi Cheshire, Alex Dahl, S.E. Lynes, D.L. Marshall, Simon Mason, Greg Mosse, Craig Robertson, Leigh Russell, William Shaw, Tracey Whitwell and Nicola Williams.

Includes a welcome glass of wine, 2-course murder mystery dinner, teas and coffees, as well as a copy of your host’s latest book… plus a prize for the winning table!

From Ne�lix to Hollywood, crime dramas now rule the roost. Four authors discuss the process of going from page to screen and bringing their literary crea�ons to life. Imran Mahmood’s ground-breaking novel You Don’t Know Me was adapted into a highly successful BBC1 series and he has since been commissioned to write three screenplays. AA Dhand is working with a UK broadcaster to bring the six novels in his acclaimed DI Harry Virdee series to TV. Louise Doughty is the author of Apple Tree Yard, which was made into a major BBC series, and her novel Pla�orm Seven has been filmed for ITVX. Mick Herron’s outstanding Slough House series has been drama�sed in a big budget Apple TV series starring Oscar-winner Gary Oldman. Serial bestseller Chris Brookmyre will direct.

Imran Mahmood @imranmahood777

AA Dhand @aadhand

Louise Doughty @doughtylouise

Mick Herron @MickHerron

Chris Brookmyre @cbrookmyre £14

New thrillers from the bestselling

authors Mark Edwards and Claire McGowan

Available for sale or preorder

8.30pm

Special Guest: Ann Cleeves

With three outstanding crime series, two much-loved television dramas, thirty-six novels translated into over twenty languages, and a legion of fans both in the UK and around the world, Ann Cleeves has enjoyed an almost unrivalled career. As the creator of both Vera Stanhope and Jimmy Perez, the protagonists of Vera and Shetland, she has brought joy to millions. Ann’s novel The Long Call, the first in her Two Rivers series, was also successfully adapted for TV.

Her latest novel, The Raging Storm, is the third in the Devon-set series and sees DI Ma�hew Venn face up to ghosts from his past a�er the body of a celebrity adventurer is found in a dinghy anchored off a local cove.

Fun Lovin’ Crime Writers

£17

Ann Cleeves @AnnCleeves Vaseem Khan @VaseemKhanUK

The boys (and Val) are back in town! It’s four long years since the world’s greatest crime wri�ng superband stru�ed their stuff on stage in the Old Swan. Val McDermid, Mark Billingham, Chris Brookmyre, Doug Johnstone, Stuart Neville and Luca Veste will be back doing what they do best (apart from wri�ng books, obviously), armed with new killer tunes!

But as ever, they will be murdering songs for fun. And, like the best mysteries, there is much s�ll to be revealed. Will Luca get to finish Britney? Will Mark learn that elusive fourth chord? Will they fight the law and will the law win? Turn the amplifiers up to eleven, get your dancing shoes on, and get ready to rock.

Please note that The Fun Lovin’ Crime Writers event will take place in The Ballroom of the Old Swan hotel. @funlovinwriters

10pm 10pm £14

Site Map

TO EVENTS

7 4

6

Tea & Coffee Stations: Sponsored by

The Likely Suspects Tent sponsored by

Bookshop provided by

5

The Old Swan Hotel Tuck Shop will be open:

Thursday: 3.00pm – 12.30am

Friday & Saturday: 10.30am – 12.30am

Sunday: 10.30am – 1.00pm

There will also be a BBQ running during the Fes�val: (weather permi�ng)

Thursday 3.00pm – 10.00pm

Friday & Saturday: 12.00pm to 10.00pm

The Swan Bar will be open 10.00am �ll late throughout the weekend.

SWANROAD

The Likely Suspect Tent Bar: Thursday: 3.00pm to 1.00am

Friday & Saturday: 8.30am serving teas & coffees, with the bar opening from 12.00pm –1.00am.

Sunday: 8.30am serving teas & coffees, with the bar opening from 12.00pm – 2.00pm.

Pop-up food vendors may be on site during the weekend. Keep your eyes open whilst at the Fes�val or speak to the team at the Box Office for more details.

9am

S.A Cosby & Chris Hammer

Rising interna�onal stars S.A. Cosby and Chris Hammer are two of the most vibrant and vital voices in crime fic�on today.

Shawn Cosby rocketed to global prominence with two highly celebrated, award-winning novels. The stunning Blacktop Wasteland, a powerful and stylish slice of noir, was followed by the poignant and pugnacious Razorblade Tears which tackles the most important ques�ons of our �mes head on. His new novel, All the Sinners Bleed, is much an�cipated.

Chris Hammer enjoyed a celebrated thirty-year career as a journalist in his na�ve Australia and interna�onally. His searing debut novel, Scrublands, was the Sunday Time Crime Book of the Year and won the CWA John Creasey Dagger. Four further novels, each gripping and meaningful, have cemented Hammer’s place as one of the world’s leading thriller writers.

Modern Gumshoes: PI For Hire

SA Cosby @blacklionking73

Sponsored by

10.30am

£14

Femi Kayode @FemiKay_Author

Private inves�gators are cool. FACT. End of discussion. Four talented writers who never have reason to be ashamed of their shamus discuss how the private eye has evolved.

Femi Kayode introduces the brilliant Philip Taiwo to the world in his powerfully suspenseful debut Lightseekers, set in his na�ve Nigeria. Holly Wa�’s tenacious journalist Casey Benedict makes her fourth ou�ng in the electrifying interna�onal thriller The End of the Game. Tim Weaver’s David Raker series goes from strength to strengthandthemissingpersonsinves�gatorisinscin�lla�ngformin The Last Goodbye. Author Doug Johnstone will keep a private eye on proceedings.

Holly Watt @holly_watt

Tim Weaver @TimWeaverBooks

Doug Johnstone @doug_johnstone

In conversation

Chris hammer @hammernow

12pm

New Blood with Val McDermid

This is one of the most eagerly an�cipated events on our programme –and one of the most coveted spots for authors. Val McDermid’s choice of the year’s best debuts has provided a pla�orm for some outstanding talents, and the class of ‘23 is no excep�on.

S�g Abell makes a striking fic�on debut with Death Under a Li�le Sky, an atmospheric thriller set in a seemingly idyllic village. Jo Callaghan’s highly-original In The Blink Of An Eye featurestheinnova�vepairingofa seasoned detec�ve with an AI partner. Heather Darwent’s fiendishly clever The Things We Do To Our Friends is a deliciously dark tale of toxic friendships and deadly secrets. The powerfully evoca�ve Needless Alley by Natalie Marlow is a gripping tale of moun�ng menace on the streets of 1930s Birmingham.

Sponsored by

Big Read: The North’s Biggest Book Club 1pm

2023 saw the return of the Big Read, the North’s Biggest Book Club. For a week in June, we took the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Wri�ng Fes�val on the road and visited 8 libraries across Yorkshire and the North East.

Hosted by our Reader-in-Residence, crime author Luca Veste, these free book club sessions encouraged as many people as possible to read a fantas�c work of fic�on, The Long Call by Ann Cleeves. We worked in partnership with Pan Macmillan to deliver 1,500 copies of The Long Call to libraries and communi�es.

Join us at the final Big Read event of the year, to talk all things crime fic�on.

Sponsored by

Val McDermid @valmcdermid

Stig Abell @StigAbell

Jo Callaghan @JoCallaghanKat

Heather Darwent @heatherdarwent

Natalie Marlow @NatalieMarlow2

£14

Books

See something you fancy? dedicated Harrogate Netgalley

from See something you fancy? dedicated Harrogate Netgalley

Hodder at Harrogate!

Request a copy to read on our page: bit.ly/HodderatHarrogate

Request a copy to read on our page: bit.ly/HodderatHarrogate

Our booksellers return in 2023 to the Old Swan Hotel to celebrate the richness of contemporary crime writing. Join us, and discover your favourite new novelist.

Presumed Guilty 2pm

Be upstanding in court. The honourable Judge Rob Rinder is in session. The barrister, TV star and author will wield the gavel as four outstanding authors explore our love for the judicial high jinks and courtroom ba�les at the heart of the legal thriller.

Tension-packed courtroom scenes underpin Sarah Vaughan’s prescient poli�cal thriller Reputa�on, another chart hit a�er the huge success of Anatomy of a Scandal Steve Cavanagh’s EddieFlynn series is thegold standard forlegal thrillers and thelatest, The Accomplice, is a twisty rollercoaster of a ride. Former barrister Helen Fields is in criminally good form in her latest novel, The Ins�tu�on, a haun�ng race-against-�me thriller. Kia Abdullah’s poignant Those People Next Door is a powerful and thought-provoking courtroom drama examining racism in the underbelly of suburbia.

Murder Most Joyful 3.30pm

Slaying someone doesn’t have to be a dark and dreary business. The creators of ‘cosy’ crime have brought joy where there was despair, belly laughs where there were brooding barbs.

Mark Billingham’sfirstnewseriesin20yearsseestheintroduc�onofabrilliantlyoriginal crea�on in Detec�ve Declan Miller, the eccentric star of The Last Dance. The latest in Elly Griffiths’s much-loved Ruth Galloway series set in rural Norfolk is the unmissable The Last Remains. An� Tuomainen’s hilarious and nail-bi�ng new novel The Moose Paradox is soon to be a major movie release starring Steve Carell. The Reverend Richard Coles has followed his chart topper Murder Before Evensong with the equally charming and funny A Death in the Parish. Author SJ Benne� will ensure suitable decorum.

£14

Rob Rinder @RobbieRinder

Sarah Vaughan @SVaughanAuthor

Steve Cavanagh @SteveCavanagh_

Helen Fields @helen_fields

Kia Abdullah @kiaabdullah

Mark Billingham @markbillingham Elly Griffiths @ellygriffiths

Antti Tuomainen @anti_tuomainen

Rev. Richard Coles @RevRichardColes

SJ Bennett @sophiebennett

THE WORLD WILL KNOW HER NAME

ANNA O

5pm

Special Guest: Jeffery Deaver

First, some numbers. Jeffery Deaver is the author of 42 novels, sold in 150 countries and translated into over 25 languages. He has sold over 150 million books worldwide. All very impressive but the numbers barely begin to tell the story of a storied career. Deaver is a maestro of suspense withpreciousfewequals.

From his debut Manha�an is My Beat through to The Bone Collector to his latest, Hun�ng Time, he has created a succession of expertly plo�ed novels, each gripping and ingenious,eachracingalongfuelledbypace,originality, inven�onandheart.

Hehasgivenhislegionofreadersaseriesofmemorable protagonists including Lincoln Rhyme, Kathryn Dance and Colter Shaw. Each leap from the page, cra�ed at thefinger�psofamasterstoryteller.

Jeffery Deaver will be interviewed by broadcaster andauthor Mark Lawson.

AUTHOR DINNER | Saturday 22

Wedgewood Restaurant

Saturday Night Author Dinner

Whodunnit? That’s the ques�on on everyone’s lips at the author dinner – along with good food, wine and conversa�on. Your table will be hosted by a leading crime writer who will lend their insight, experience and skill – or failing that, their best guess – to iden�fy the perpetrator of the dastardly crime in the murder mystery that will be acted out for your delight, deflec�on and diversion. Knives, forks and sharp wits at the ready, let’s eat.

So get ready to crack the case with Richard Armitage, Tina Baker, D.V. Bishop, Sam Blake, Steph Broadribb, Emma Chris�e, Lisa Gray, David Hewson, Susi Holliday, Olivia Kiernan, Alex Marwood, Stuart Neville, Chris�e J. Newport, Jude O’Reilly, James Oswald, Holly Seddon, Sue Watson and Katy Watson

Includes a welcome glass of wine, 2-course murder mystery dinner, teas and coffees, as well as a copy of your host’s latest book… plus a prize for the winning table!

£17

6.15pm | £50

Sponsored by

Sponsored by

Jeffery Deaver @jefferydeaver Mark Lawson #MarkLawson

Special Guests: Lee Child & Andrew Child

A brother and Child reunion as the creators old and new of theiconicJackReachercometogethertodiscusshislegacy.

Reacher is a global phenomenon – it’s said one of his novels is sold somewhere in the world every nine seconds. He’s the world’s favourite literary ac�on hero, a figure who transcends the genre, a character for the ages. He’s a streetwise Hercules to fight the rising odds.

When Lee Child made the decision to ease an extraordinary career towards re�rement, it was his brother Andrew Child, a successful author in his ownright,whowaschargedwiththedaun�ngtask of con�nuing the dynasty. He’s done so brilliantly and No Plan B, the third collabora�on between the brothers is as taut, twisty and terrific as ever.

Lee Child and Andrew Child will be interviewed by broadcaster Steph McGovern.

£17

Sponsored by

The Late Night Quiz 10pm

And now, from Harrogate… it’s the quiz of the year!

Form a team and find a table for what is a highlight of every Theakston’s Fes�val. It’s the fiendishly fun quiz that pitches authors against publishers and reviewers against readers in a ba�le of crime fic�on wits as Saturday night hurtles towards Sunday morning.

The leaders of the inquisi�on are, as ever, the dynamic duo of Val McDermid and Mark Billingham.TheyaretheBonnieandClydeofcrime,theLennonandMcCartneyofmusic, the Ant and Dec of everything else. Together, forever, they will test your crime fic�on knowledge un�l your li�le grey cells are begging for mercy. But there will be no mercy!

Remember it’s all just a bit of fun. With prizes.

£14

Sponsored by

Lee Child @LeeChildReacher Andrew Child @Andrew_Grant Steph McGovern @StephLunch

The Never-Ending Golden Age

In the gli�ering crime fic�on canon, one figure con�nues to hold influence above all others. Agatha Chris�e remains an inspira�on and these four disciples of the Dame explain why the Golden Age endures.

Janice Halle�’s meteoric rise con�nues with The Mysterious Case of the Alperton Angels, a novel as compulsive and cunning as her breakthrough books. Vaseem Khan’s ability to weave stylish, complex plots is on full display in his latest engrossing thriller Death of a Lesser God. Ragnar Jónasson’s Golden Age creden�als shine through in his elegant, twisty cra�ing; his latest, Reykjavic, was co-wri�en with Icelandic Prime Minister Katrin Jakobsdo�r. A Game of Lies is the exhilara�ng and expertly plo�ed third ou�ng for Clare Mackintosh’s complex and courageous DC Ffion Morgan. Radio presenter and debut crime writer S�g Abell is in the chair.

When Sally Killed Harry

Domes�c noir is dangerously close to home, a land peopled with dodgy husbands, scheming wives and murderous siblings. Meet four authors expertly versed in the darker sides of love and friendship.

Shari Lapena’s trademark clever, twisty plo�ng is at its devilish best in her latest thriller, the gripping Everyone Here is Lying. C.L. Taylor’s red-hot The Guilty Couple has so many twists, turns, ups and downs that rollercoasters everywhere should sue for breach of copyright. Louise Candlish’s outstanding new novel The Only Suspect is a spiralling tale of obsession, love and decep�on that will leave you breathless. Claire Douglas has struck domes�c gold again with her unse�ling new book The Woman Who Lied, a compelling tale of life imita�ng art. Bestselling author T.M. Logan will lead the discussion.

9am

10.30am

Sponsored by

Janice Hallett @janisehallett

Vaseem Khan @VaseemKhanUK

Ragnar Jónasson #RagnarJonasson

Clare Mackintosh @claremackint0sh

Stig Abell @StigAbell £14

Shari Lapena @sharilapena

C.L. Taylor @callytaylor

Louise Candlish @louise_candlish

Claire Douglas @DougieClaire

T.M. Logan @TMLoganAuthor £14

Special Guest: Lucy Worsley

Celebrated historian and author Lucy Worsley is the face of television history following a succession of popular BBC documentaries. She is Chief Curator of Royal Palaces with responsibilityfortheTowerofLondonandHamptonCourtPalace.Like her charges, she has an elegant, charming façade, but like them she is also a keeper of dark secrets.

Lucy’s book, A Very Bri�sh Murder, explores the na�onal obsession with the most heinous of crimes, both real and imagined, as she expertly leads us through celebrated murder cases and the evolu�on of the crime novel. Her latest work is an acclaimed biography of Agatha Chris�e. With access to personal le�ers and papers that have rarely been seen, Lucy reveals an extraordinary woman and a literary pioneer.

Lucy Worsley will be interviewed by broadcaster Natasha Knight.

Sponsored by

Sponsored by

Lucy Worsley @Lucy_Worsley Natasha Knight @knight_natasha

Fringe |

Friday 21 July

Dead Giveaways | Sponsored by

Dead Giveaways Tent | Free Ticketed Events, but feel free to pop in on the day to see if there is a space for you.

10.30am An�que Hunters Guide to Murder with CL Miller

Informal chat with the author of 2024’s biggest breakthrough crime book, plus a reading, with some free morning nibbles.

2.00pm & 4.00pm Dead Giveaways

Come along to grab some crime fic�on-themed freebies: merch, samplers, snacks, treats and prize bundles for �cketholders.

The Orion Incident Room

| Sponsored by The Library | £3 per event

11.00am Historical Crime

Anna Mazzola,David HewsonandChris Lloydwill be delving into the world of historical crime and what it takes to set fic�on in the past in this panel chaired byHolly Seddon.

12.00pm How Fact Inspired Fic�on

In this event,Mari Hannah, Greg BuchananandJohn Sutherlandwill be exploring how their past lives inform their current fic�on, and real life experiences interweave themselves into the pages of their latest novels. Chaired byVaseem Khan.

1.00pm Stars of 2024

Chaired byAdam Simcox, join us and get a first look at the highlights of 2024 from Orion withChris Whitaker,Lucie Whitehouse, Chris�e WatsonandSamuel Burr.

8.30pm Murder a Song, Karaoke Moment with Orion

1.00pm Meet & Greet with Mick Herron

Check your envelopes, a special golden �cket may just get you access to this Meet & Greet event with Mick Herron.

Wri�ng Spies In The Shadow Of Bond | Sponsored by

The Bowling Green Tent

3.15pm | £5 | Includes a drink

The four bestselling authors on this panel have wri�en spies opera�ng in every kind of se�ng – from the historical to a future dystopia. Join them to talk about the enduring lure of spy fic�on past, present and future. With Ava Glass, Greg Mosse, Jack JewersandTim Glister.The event will be hosted byFrankie Pella�of Read And Buried.

Saturday 22 July

Grill a ‘Killer’, with Graham Bartle�

| Sponsored by

The Library | Interrogator Ticket: £5.00 | Audience

Ticket: Free

9.30am | 11.00am | 12.30pm | 2.00pm | 3.30pm

Ever wanted to try your hand at interviewing a suspected murderer? Now’s your chance. A unique opportunity to be your favourite fic�onal detec�ve and get some interroga�ng �ps from Crime and Policing Advisor Graham Bartle�. (interrogator, working in pairs, 15 minutes).

Dead Giveaways | Sponsored by

Dead Giveaways Tent | Free Ticketed Events, but feel free to pop in on the day to see if there is a space for you.

10.30am The Rejuvena�on Clinic

A li�le sore headed a�er Friday night? Come along to the Pan Macmillan tent for some rejuvena�ng treats.

2.00pm & 6.00pm Dead Giveaways

Come along to grab some crime fic�on-themed freebies: merch, samplers, snacks, treats and prize bundles for �cketholders.

4.00pm All of Us Are Broken: A�ernoon tea with Fiona Cummins

Informal chat with the bestselling author of the new DC Saul Anguish novel, plus a reading, with some free a�ernoon nibbles.

Book your �ckets now on our website for �cketed events as availability is limited, or come find us at the box office.

Additional Events and Activities from our Festival Partners

10.00am Kill For Me Kill For You pop-up! | Sponsored by

By the Bookshop Entrance (weather depending, may be relocated)

A pop-up stand will be open from 10.00am to 2.00pm in the grounds of the Old Swan to answer any ques�ons on the ‘Partner in Crime ac�vity’ and find out more about Steve Cavanagh’s latest book, ‘Kill For Me, Kill For You’.

11.00am The Honeymoon, Brunch Cocktails with Kate Gray | Sponsored by

Masham Tent | Free Ticketed Event

Meet Kate Gray, the breakout author of this summer’s killer beach read,‘The Honeymoon’. Enjoy a special ‘The Honeymoon’-themed cocktail and the chance to win one of 20 exclusive, signed proof edi�ons.

12.15pm The Wedding Guest with A.E. Gauntlet | Sponsored by

The Bowling Green Tent | No �cket required

Harrogate exclusive proofs and the chance to meet the author, with some special wedding treats.

12.30pm The Silent Pa�ent with Alex Michaelides | Sponsored by

Outside the Front of the Hotel Entrance

Come between 12.30pm & 2.30pm for some treats and find out more about The Silent Pa�ent.

1.00pm A Tribute to Peter Robinson | Sponsored by

The Reflec�on Garden

Last year the crime wri�ng world lost one of its very finest:Peter Robinson,author of the bestselling Inspector Banks series. Come and join us at 1.00pm for a touching tribute to Peter’s life.

3.30pm The Po�ng Shed Murder with Paula Su�on | Sponsored by

Outside the Front of the Hotel Entrance

There’s death among the dahlias… Renegade Books are thrilled to announce the upcoming release of the debut cosy crime novel by co�age-core queen and social-media sensa�on Paula Su�on, the creator of Hill House Vintage. Come and join us for a special vintage moment.

5.00pm Janice Halle�’s Christmas Party (in Summer!) | Sponsored by

Masham Tent | Invita�on Only

To celebrate Janice’s forthcoming book The Christmas Appeal, there is fes�ve fun and summer�me merriment!

Throughout the Weekend

A Poirot Moment | Harrogate | Sponsored by

Venturing to town? Join the hunt for Hercule Poirot with a prize to be won! 8 posters, located in Harrogate! Snap them all and get your hands on a prize!

The Likely Suspects Tent | Sponsored by

The main hospitality tent is sponsored by Simon & Schuster, who will be celebra�ng Ruth Ware, Jo Callaghan, Robert Crais and many more of their authors.

Tea and coffee | Main Hospitality Tent | Sponsored by

Tea and coffee sta�ons will be provided by Faber & Faber to promote Geneva, the thrilling new novel from Richard Armitage.

And lots more! Keep your eyes open this #TheakstonsCrime as there are lots of exci�ng moments happening! Don’t forget to check our social media channels over the weekend for special announcements.

Save the Date

Thurs 18 - Sun 21 July 2024

Harrogate

Weekend Break Packages – the perfect getaway

Treat yourself to a weekend at the crime hot spot of the summer by booking a combined �cket and accommoda�on package. Stay in one of our specially selected Fes�val hotels (subject to availability) and join over 100 of the world’s most celebrated crime authors in conversa�on, in ac�on and in the bar!

Weekend Break Packages Include:

• 3 nights’ bed and breakfast accommoda�on (18, 19 and 20 July)

• Your Classic Weekend Rover �cket, including:

A guaranteed seat to all Fes�val events* from 8pm on Thursday 18 July to 12.00pm on Sunday 21 July

Two-course lunch on Friday and Saturday

A complimentary Fes�val goody bag

Rover �ckets DO NOT include: Crea�ve Thursday, Author Dinner Events and any thirdparty events. These events must be booked separately, please check event lis�ngs for details nearer the �me.

Tailor-made packages for 1, 2 or 4 nights stay are also available. Rooms are always in demand during the Fes�val weekend: Don’t miss out!

2024 Packages

Pre-booking forms for the 2024 Fes�val will be available from the on-site box office from 12pmonFriday21July2023. Completedformswillbetreatedonafirstcome,firstserved basis and we will respond to all requests during week commencing 21 August 2023.

Accommoda�on available includes:

The Old Swan

The Cairn

The Crown

The Majes�c

The Harrogate Inn

The Camberley B&B

The Yorkshire

The Crowne Plaza

Double, single, and twin rooms available.

Box Office: 01423 562 303

About Us

Harrogate Interna�onal Fes�vals is the flagship arts Fes�val for the North of England. A charitable organisa�on, our passion and ambi�on maintains our posi�on as an arts organisa�on delivering Fes�vals of na�onal importance and drama�cally increasing the cultural opportuni�es for Harrogate and the wider region.

Honorary President

Peter Blackburn CBE

Vice Presidents

Mrs Frainy Ardeshir

Lesley Garrett CBE

David Haxby

David Salter

Christine Woods

Board of Trustees

Fiona Movley, Chairman

Matthew Osbourne, Treasurer

John Bywater

Jenny Harris

Lucy Hind

Iain Jenkins

Stanley Lumley

Craig Ratcliffe

Susan Rumfitt

Theakston Old Peculier Programming Committee

Vaseem Khan

2023 Programming Chair

Mark Billingham

NJ Cooper

Jane Gregory

Steve Mosby

Laura Sherlock

Ruth Ware

Julia Wisdom

Sharon Canavar

Clemence Roux

Marc Dunleavy

Support Services

Avenue Printing | Big Bamboo Agency | Marc Dunleavy | Conrad Davies Creative

David Simister | Dot & Diode MIDAS PR | Tim Garbutt Events | Karen Sweeney

Thanks

With special thanks to all our volunteers, without whom the Festival could not happen.

Front cover image credit: Richard Maude

Harrogate International Festival Ltd | 32 Cheltenham Parade | Harrogate | HG1 1DB

Harrogate International Festivals is a registered charity no. 244861

2023 FAQs and Site Info

By Phone: 01423 562 303

Online: harrogateinterna�onalfes�vals.com

In Person: Harrogate Interna�onal Fes�vals, 32 Cheltenham Parade, HG1 1DB

Opening Times: 10am to 5pm Monday to Friday

Payment: Harrogate Interna�onal Fes�vals accepts all major credit/debit cards (except American Express), as well as cash.

Booking Fee: Harrogate Interna�onal Fes�vals charges a £1.75 transac�on fee per booking. Ticket sales alone do not cover the costs of our Box Office and booking fees are vital to the development, maintenance and running of our in-house Box Office. For more informa�on and for full Terms and Condi�ons please visit our website: harrogateinterna�onalfes�vals.com Informa�on correct at �me of prin�ng.

Tickets on the Door: Tickets may be available to purchase on the door subject to availability. Be aware events can sell out in advance. Booking early is recommended.

Bag Searches: Please note there may be random bag searches.

Ticket Collec�on: Tickets purchased for the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Wri�ng Fes�val are to be collected at the Old Swan Hotel’s Box Office from Thursday 20 July, 3pm. No �ckets can be collected/sent prior to the Fes�val. You will be issued appropriate access passes upon your arrival at the Box Office.

Site Passes: If you do not wish to a�end any events but would like to gain access to the Fes�val grounds, you will be required to purchase a Site Pass. Site Passes will be available from our website nearer to the Fes�val. Individual event �ckets or Rover �ckets will act as your Site Pass on the designated days of your �ckets.

Returned Tickets: The Box Office cannot refund money or exchange �ckets, except in the case of a cancelled performance. We are happy to try and re-sell returned �ckets for sold-out events for a small charge.

Concessions: Concessions are available for under 18s, students in full �me educa�on and those receiving unemployment benefits. Appropriate iden�fica�on must be provided. May not be used in conjunc�on with any other offers.

Sea�ng, Queuing and Depar�ng: We are using a large tented auditorium this year. Addi�onal informa�on about entry and exit of the tent will be available in the run up to the event.

Parking: There is no parking available on site at the Old Swan Hotel.

Lost Property: Will be removed from the main auditorium and taken to the Box Office desk a�er each event. At the end of the Fes�val, unclaimed lost property will be handed to the Old Swan Hotel recep�on.

Visitors with Addi�onal Access Requirements: The Old Swan Hotel is wheelchair accessible. We offer free �ckets for carers and special provisions can be arranged for visitors with Addi�onal Access Requirements. Please call the Fes�val Office on 01423 562303 or visit the Fes�val Box Office tent onsite at The Old Swan Hotel to obtain a blue badge to allow priority entry to unreserved events.

Photography & Recording: The use of photographic, video or audio equipment is strictly prohibited.

Bookstore: Waterstones will provide the Fes�val bookstore at The Old Swan Hotel and will host book signings a�er each event. You will need to show a �cket for each event to have your book signed. Limit of 3 books per person per event.

Friends’ Lounge: The Fes�val Friends’ Lounge will be available for those who have a Friend of the Fes�val membership. A screen and a live link will be available across all the events from the main programme. Valid �ckets and membership cards must be shown in order to access the lounge.

All informa�on in the guide is correct at the �me of going to press and we reserve the right to make such altera�ons as may become necessary. Changes to the programme will be communicated in advance where possible and clearly signposted on site.

Fes�val Events will begin punctually at the �me stated. The use of mobile phones, cameras and audio/visual recorders is strictly prohibited. The management reserves the right to refuse admission and change or cancel the adver�sed programme.

A large print version of the event guide can be ordered by calling 01423 562 303.

Harrogate Interna�onal Fes�vals is a registered charity no. 244861.

Box Office: 01423 562 303

Booking fees apply

Sponsors of the Festival

Harrogate International Festivals would like to thank the following organisations for their support and commitment.

Title Sponsor Crime Novel of the Year Partners:

Major Funder & Community Partner

Major Supporter

Crime Event Sponsors:

Regular Funder

Premier Partners:

Corporate Friends:

Honorary Solicitors

Corporate Patrons

Destination Partner

Accommodation Partner

Communication Partner

Trusts and Foundations

Friends of the Festivals | Future 50 Foundation | The Dorothy Parkinson Memorial Award WW Spooner Charitable Trust | GC Armitage Charitable Trust | The Lady Bomanji and Mrs Mehroo Jehangir Memorial Concert