Lisa Jewell is one of the biggest names in dark psychological thrillers – and she’s coming to Folkestone. The UK’s most addictive writers, whose every novel dominates the charts and gets readers texting “OMG” at 2am, will take to the Quarterhouse stage for one night only – to talk all things murder, mystery and suspense.
From Then She Was Gone to None of This is True, Jewell has turned the everyday into the unforgettable – crafting terrifyingly plausible tales that burrow under your skin and don’t let go. Her genius lies not just in shocking twists, but in plots that hit dangerously close to home.
Don’t miss this chance to go behind the scenes with the queen of the modern thriller. Hear how she builds suspense, where her darkest ideas come from, and what it takes to grip millions of readers around the world. Expect chills, gasps and revelations.
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Folkestone Book Festival is our annual celebration of books, bold ideas and the power of storytelling – by the sea. Curated by award-winning author and journalist Sophie Haydock (The Flames, Madame Matisse), this year’s programme features more than 50 events over 11 days, bringing together world-class writers, radical thinkers and unforgettable conversations – all inspired by Folkestone’s spirit of enabling creativity and transformative change.
We want the festival to be for everyone. That’s why we’ve introduced a £5 ticket – a no-questions-asked option for anyone who might be struggling to afford events.
And if you’re planning to come to more than a handful of events, don’t miss our great-value Festival Pass, which gives you access to all events (excluding classes, which need to be booked separately) for just £140.
There’s so much to discover – from headline talks to intimate workshops, big ideas to local voices. Check out the full programme, including our much-loved Local Talent Showcase and a new series of Creative Writing Workshops designed to spark your imagination.
We delighted that our onsite bookseller this year is Waterstones Folkestone.
We thank our major sponsor Saga and supporting sponsors Eurotunnel, Holiday Extras and Friends of the Folkestone Book Festival along with 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 and The Roger De Haan Charitable Trust.