Wednesday 6th May at The du Maurier Fowey Literary Festival 2026
Serena Trowbridge
Today, the morning starts bright and early with a reading group discussion led by Serena Trowbridge. The book under discussion this morning is Daphne du Maurier's collection of short stories, The Rendezvous and Other Stories.
At 11am in Fowey Town Hall, the Festival welcomes back the wonderful, award-winning author, Patrick Gale. Today, he will be talking about his new book, Love Lane, the long-awaited sequel to A Place Called Winter. Expect rich storytelling, sharp insight and a chance to hear directly from one of Britain’s most beloved novelists.
The early-afternoon event is titled Masterclass: Building a Successful Author Brand and Writing Career. Are you a budding writer? Find out from two bestselling authors, Veronica Henry and Jennie Godfrey, how different strategies, combined with a strong brand, can help you develop a successful writing career.
Later in the afternoon, Serena Trowbridge presents her talk, Why Does Pre-Raphaelitism Matter Now? Over 150 years ago, a movement began that shaped the art and literary world at the time and ever since. It is as popular as ever today, influencing popular culture and contemporary ideas as much as painting and poetry. Serena explores why a project begun by revolutionary young men still matters and is so popular today, from a focus on the environment and the representation of women in the arts to the need to pay close attention to the world around us.
At today’s early evening event, join best-selling author Andrew Lownie in conversation about his new book, Entitled: The Rise and Fall of the House of York. His new book is a gripping investigation into one of Britain’s most privileged and controversial aristocratic families. In Entitled, he charts the Yorks’ extraordinary ascent to power, their influence and wealth, and the scandals and misjudgements that ultimately lead to their dramatic decline. This is a compelling event with one of the UK’s most fearless and insightful nonfiction writers.
What better way to end the day than this evening’s event, titled From Page to Pour, a wine-tasting talk with wine expert Helen McGinn as she discusses her new book, The Supermarket Wine Guide, in conversation with bestselling author Veronica Henry. Enjoy an evening of stories, wine tasting and lively conversation.
For full details of times and locations, please check the programme here: https://www.foweyfestival.com/events-2026-6th-may/