Saturday 19 September
Nailing Your Pitch and Synopsis: An Introduction to Publishing with industry expert and editor Sara-Jade Virtue
An interactive workshop for unpublished and debut authors looking to understand what comes next after typing “The End”. Join publishing expert Sara-Jade Virtue for a practical deep dive into two of the most important tools in an author's publishing journey: the pitch and the synopsis.
Discover what agents and publishers are really looking for, learn how to craft a compelling pitch that captures the essence of your story, and understand how to write a synopsis that showcases your plot, characters and voice. Packed with practical advice and industry insight, this session is designed to help aspiring authors take their next steps with confidence.
Sara-Jade Virtue has worked in the book industry for over 23 years. She spent 18 years at Simon & Schuster, initially as Special Sales Director before moving into Editorial in 2019 as Brand Development Director, where she identified new talent and developed growth strategies for emerging and established authors. She is co-founder and co-director of the #LoveStoriesEtc literary festival, which returned to Manchester Central Library in 2026, and also volunteers at her local community library.
2pm - 4:30pm at the Market Harborough Congregational Church Centre
Saturday 26 September
An Afternoon with Acclaimed Authors
From 12pm at St Dionysus’ Church
Join us for an inspiring afternoon of author talks, conversation and book signings as part of the very first Market Harborough Literary Festival.
From 12 noon, audiences will hear from a fantastic line-up of bestselling authors discussing their latest books, writing journeys, creative inspiration and the stories behind their work. Whether you’re a lifelong reader, aspiring writer, or simply curious to hear from some of today’s most exciting literary voices, this event offers a unique opportunity to learn more about the writing process and engage directly with the authors through audience Q&As.
Authors appearing include:
12pm - Belinda Campbell joins Marisa Linton in conversation with Diana Bretherick to discuss the fantasy and folk horror genres, including Marisa’s novel Circle of Shadows and Belinda’s novel Something Wicked
1pm - Manish Chauhan, Leicester author of acclaimed Faber novel Belgrave Road
2pm - Claire Fuller, award-winning author of Unsettled Ground, discussing her latest novel Hunger and Thirst
3pm - Janice Hallett, bestselling crime writer, talking about her brand-new book The Silent Appeal
Your £20 ticket includes access to all talks throughout the afternoon, as well as complimentary tea, coffee and refreshments. You are welcome to come and go throughout the day.
Sunday 27 September
Children’s Book Activities at Waterstones 10:30am - 4pm
Join us at Waterstones Market Harborough on Sunday 27th September for a day of free children’s book activities as part of the Market Harborough Literary Festival.
Taking place between 10:30am and 4pm, families can enjoy a range of free fun, creative and interactive activities inspired by books, storytelling and imagination. Perfect for younger readers and budding book lovers, the sessions aim to encourage creativity, curiosity and a love of reading in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Photography by Terry Eato
Sunday 27 September
Literary Walk around Market Harborough
11:30am - 1pm
Ticket holders meet at the Old Grammar School
Join us for a relaxed literary walk through the heart of Market Harborough, led by local Blue Badge Tourist Guide James Carpenter. Beginning at The Old Grammar School and finishing at the Three Swans, the walk will explore the town’s rich history alongside short readings from local writers. A wonderful opportunity to discover Market Harborough from a new perspective, celebrating its stories, history and creative community along the way.
Sunday 27 September
An afternoon of fascinating conversation, historical fiction and crime.
From 3pm at Louisa’s Place
Join us at Louisa’s Place from 3pm onwards, audiences can enjoy a varied programme of author talks, panel discussions and poetry, with opportunities to hear from acclaimed writers, ask questions, and discover the stories behind their work in an intimate and relaxed setting.
Step into the world of 18th century Britain with historical fiction author Carolyn Kirby as she explores the inspiration behind her latest novel, Ravenglass. In this richly illustrated and engaging talk, Carolyn will guide audiences through the people, places and hidden histories that shaped the novel, using eight fascinating objects from the story to bring the Georgian era vividly to life.
This relaxed afternoon event is a chance to hear directly from the author about her writing process, historical research and the real stories woven into her work. The 40-minute talk will be followed by an audience Q&A and the opportunity to purchase a signed copy of Ravenglass.
Cannonballs, Corsets and Coal: an 18th century story in 8 objects: An author talk by award-winning novelist Carolyn Kirby
From 3pm
Murder by Design: Crime Fiction Panel & Q&A
From 4pm
Join crime authors E C Bateman, Louise Jensen and Simon Mason for an afternoon of suspense, secrets and storytelling as they discuss the enduring appeal of crime fiction and what goes into creating compelling mysteries and unforgettable characters.
Chaired by author Diana Bretherick, this lively panel event will explore the inspiration behind the authors’ books, the process of building tension and twists, and why crime fiction continues to captivate readers. Audiences will also have the opportunity to ask questions, hear directly from the authors about their writing journeys, and gain insight into the world of modern crime writing.
Whether you’re a long-time crime fiction fan, an aspiring writer, or simply curious about the stories behind bestselling books, this promises to be an engaging and entertaining discussion in an intimate festival setting.
Sunday 27 September
Poetry Pizza Party
5:30pm to 8:30pm at Louisa’s Place
Join us for a relaxed and celebratory evening of poetry, music and performance as we round off the very first Market Harborough Literary Festival in style.
Hosted by Kia Matanky-Becker from Queer Noise, The Poetry Party is a chance to hear from an exciting line-up of award-winning and emerging poets in an intimate and welcoming setting at Louisa’s Place. Alongside featured readings, audiences can enjoy live music, pizza, and the opportunity to take part in the Poetry Open Mic Session.
Featured poets include Charles G. Lauder Jr., D.A. Prince, Tim Relf, Jayne Stanton and Pam Thompson, with music from singer-songwriters Bethia Mitchell and Fred Turtle. The open mic session will be kicked off by Market Harborough Poet Laureate Mike Chanter.
Whether you’re a lifelong poetry lover, curious to discover spoken word for the first time, or simply looking for a creative and inspiring way to spend a Sunday evening, The Poetry Party promises a warm, lively and memorable conclusion to the festival.
Please note that the open mic is now at full capacity and we are not accepting anymore applicants.