Emily Howes & Julie Owen Moylan: Dangerous Desires

What happens to women who become trapped inside other people’s myths? Acclaimed novelists Emily Howes and Julie Owen Moylan come together for a seductive and sharply observed conversation about fame, marriage, longing and the hidden costs of living in the public gaze. In Mrs Dickens, Howes reimagines the life of Catherine Dickens, the neglected and ultimately discarded wife of Charles Dickens, whose links to Folkestone make this story feel especially close to home. Meanwhile, Moylan’s Elizabeth & Marilyn draws on the extraordinary real-life meeting between Queen Elizabeth II and Marilyn Monroe, exploring the private loneliness behind two of the twentieth century’s most recognisable women. Rich in atmosphere, desire and emotional tension, this promises to be a fascinating event about glamour, betrayal, performance and the women who refuse to remain in the shadows. This event will be chaired by Francesca Whitlum-Cooper, a curator at the National Gallery and novelist, writing as Fran Cooper. With a passion for the stories behind great works of art, she brings a fascinating perspective on the lives, loves and creative worlds of artists. Having studied at Cambridge and the Courtauld Institute of Art, she spent three years in Paris researching travelling artists. Her acclaimed debut novel, These Dividing Walls, was shortlisted for the Edward Stanford Travel Writing Award. Her forthcoming novel, Portrait (March 2027), tells the story of Danish painter Vilhelm Hammershøi’s wife Ida, whom he painted more than two dozen times, often from behind. Folkestone Book Festival is our annual celebration of stories, ideas and conversation by the sea. Curated by novelist Sophie Haydock (The Flames, Madame Matisse), this year’s festival brings together more than 60 events across two weeks, welcoming world-class writers, thinkers and storytellers to Folkestone. Discover another event, browse the bookshop, explore Folkestone’s vibrant arts scene, independent cafés, bars and galleries, and share the experience with a friend. The Festival is part of Folkestone is a Library, our ambitious town-wide celebration of reading, writing and storytelling, helping make Folkestone one of the UK’s most exciting literary destinations. We believe great conversations should be for everyone, which is why every event includes a £5 Cost of Living Ticket, available with no questions asked. Please help us spread the word. Together, we’re building a thriving community of readers, writers and curious minds. Folkestone Book Festival is proudly supported by Eurotunnel, Canterbury Christ Church University, Holiday Extras, and the Friends of Folkestone Book Festival. Creative Folkestone is supported by Arts Council England, Folkestone & Hythe District Council and Saga. Founding Funder The Roger De Haan Charitable Trust.