Matthew Sweet & Tara Parker: Barbara Cartland, My Grandmother

She wrote more than 700 novels, sold hundreds of millions of books and became one of the most recognisable women in Britain. But who was Barbara Cartland beyond the pink gowns and romantic heroines? Drawing on unprecedented access to Cartland's archives, acclaimed historian Matthew Sweet discusses The Great Dictator, his revelatory new biography, in conversation with Cartland's granddaughter, Tara Parker. This event will be chaired by Lucy Trodd, an Olivier Award-winning performer, improviser and founder of Folkestone Improv Theatre. A founding member of Showstopper! The Improvised Musical, she has spent 18 years making up musicals on the spot, performing everywhere from the West End to international stages. A regular guest with The Comedy Store Players, Lucy has a particular flair for larger-than-life characters, outrageous plot twists and the glorious absurdities of human behaviour, making her a perfect match for the extraordinary world of Barbara Cartland. A lover of theatricality, storytelling and a good dose of drama, she knows that real life can be every bit as improbable as fiction. 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.