Family Secrets: Laura Barnett and Yvvette Edwards

What happens when family secrets refuse to stay buried? When friendships are tested by time? And when the people we think we know best turn out to have stories we've never heard? Join two acclaimed contemporary novelists, Yvvette Edwards and Laura Barnett, for a warm, funny and deeply moving conversation about the ties that bind us together, the secrets we keep and the complicated business of loving other people. In Yvvette Edwards’ Good Good Loving, a family gathers at the bedside of a dying matriarch as old grievances, sacrifices and hidden truths come tumbling into the light. Laura Barnett’s Births, Deaths and Marriages follows a close-knit group of friends through a year of love, loss and life-changing decisions. Together, these bestselling and critically acclaimed authors explore family, friendship, community and the stories we tell ourselves about the people we love. From the secrets passed between generations to the friendships that sustain us through life's greatest upheavals, this promises to be a thoughtful, entertaining and deeply relatable conversation. This event will be chaired by Sharon Burrell, a Folkestone-based writer, filmmaker and founder of Hag Films, a production company with a taste for bold stories, unruly women and the power of community. Please note: Unfortunately, Jennie Godfrey is no longer able to join us for this event. We apologise for any disappointment and look forward to welcoming Laura Barnett and Yvvette Edwards for what promises to be a wonderful conversation. 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.