26
Nov
Lisa Jewell to chair 2026 Harrogate crime writing festival
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Lisa Jewell will chair the 2026 Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival in Harrogate.
Ms Jewell is renowned for her psychological thrillers, such as The Family Upstairs and Then She Was Gone. She has sold over 10 million books worldwide.
An opening line-up of global bestsellers David Baldacci, Nadine Matheson, Gillian McAllister, Steve Cavanagh and Alice Feeney has also been announced, with more headliners to be revealed in early 2026.
Ms Jewell said:
I have been bewitched by the concept of the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival for as long as I have been writing thrillers, and my first visit more than lived up to my expectations. I've been every year since and grown more and more familiar with the special world that is created in Harrogate every July, so to be invited to head up the programming committee for 2026 was an honour beyond my wildest imaginings.
I'm delighted to see a stellar line-up of writers coming together for 2026 and cannot wait to be there, watching all the behind-the-scenes work come to magical life for another glorious and unforgettable festival.
Now in its 23rd year, the festival offers readers the opportunity to meet literary superstars and discover exciting new talent.
Delivered by arts charity Harrogate International Festivals, the event includes panels, talks and workshops.
The 2026 event will celebrate the legacy of Agatha Christie, who was found at the Old Swan in Harrogate after she went missing 100 years ago.
Simon Theakston, chairman of T&R Theakston Ltd, said:
After our most successful event ever in 2025, I can’t wait to be back in Harrogate next summer celebrating the world’s best loved genre once again.
The 2026 festival will take will take place from July 23-26.
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