Irenosen Okojie & Elizabeth Macneal: Mysticism and Mystery
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Join award-winning authors Irenosen Okojie and Elizabeth Macneal for a spellbinding discussion that traverses the mystical and the macabre.
In this enthralling event, the two celebrated writers will delve into the dark and mysterious worlds of their latest novels, offering insights into their creative processes and the rich themes that weave through their work.
Irenosen Okojie’s Curandera transports readers between 17th-century Cape Verde and present-day London, blending elements of shamanism, desire, betrayal, and friendship. The story follows a mysterious woman whose arrival in Cape Verde triggers strange and unsettling events that change the town’s fate forever. Okojie, recipient of an MBE for Services to Literature and co-presenter of the BBC’s Novels That Shaped Our World, is known for her lush, imaginative prose that pushes the boundaries of storytelling.
Elizabeth Macneal’s The Burial Plot is a gothic thriller set in 1839 London, steeped in the eerie and the macabre. Famous for her evocative, atmospheric tales, Macneal explores life, death, and obsession through a chilling, intricately woven narrative that will leave readers on the edge of their seats.
This event is a must for fans of richly layered storytelling and atmospheric fiction. Join Irenosen and Elizabeth as they discuss the interplay of mysticism, mystery and history in their novels, touching on the darker side of human nature, myth, and manipulation.
The event will be chaired by acclaimed writer Sunny Singh, a novelist, public intellectual, and champion for decolonisation and inclusion. Sunny is the author of three critically acclaimed novels, including Hotel Arcadia and With Krishna’s Eyes, as well as the recent A Bollywood State of Mind. Sunny launched the Jhalak Prize for literature by writers of colour.
This promises to be an unforgettable evening of storytelling and thought-provoking conversation, offering a deep dive into the art of crafting compelling narratives with a mystical and gothic edge.
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Folkestone Book Festival is our annual celebration of books, ideas, reading and writing in many magical forms. This year's festival has been curated by award-winning author and journalist Sophie Haydock. Sophie is our new Curator: Books, Ideas and Community.
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This year's festival is for everyone and we want to make it possible for more people than ever before to be able to come together and enjoy a packed festival. To make this possible we have introduced a £5 ticket. This is a no questions asked ticket for those that may be struggling to afford events and performances.
Or grab a festival pass and enjoy the whole festival for just £140. Click here to book your festival pass
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We thank our sponsors Eurotunnel, Friends of the Folkestone Book Festival and our Education Partner Canterbury Christ Church University for making this year's festival possible.
Creative Folkestone is also supported by Arts Council England, Folkestone and Hythe District Council, Kent County Council and The Roger De Haan Charitable Trust.