Crime Day
2025-11-02 11:00 - 16:30 (Europe/London) | Old Woollen, Sunnybank Mills, 83-85 Town Street, Farsley, LS28 5UJ, United Kingdom
Crime Writing Fans! This is your pass to duck under the crime scene tape. As part of the 2025 Farsley Literature Festival we are very excited to bring you CRIME DAY at The Old Woollen. We have THREE exciting crime events in one sitting, and even more authors. Are you ready?

Taking place on Sunday 2nd November, what better way to spend an autumn day than celebrating crime-writing. We have a packed schedule of entertaining, hugely interesting and interactive events.

Attend just one, come to two, or join us for all three!

A selection of the authors’ books will be available to buy and get signed at their events.

* 11am: Whodunnits: From Page to Stage, Screen and Beyond with RC Bridgestock, JM Hall & Natalie Anderson

* 1pm: ‘Locked Room Crime’ with Tom Hindle, L.D Smithson & Rachel North

* 3pm: A Thrilling, Interactive Crime-Busting Afternoon with Antony Johnston

11am: Whodunnits: From Page to Stage, Screen and Beyond with RC Bridgestock, JM Hall & Natalie Anderson

True crime experience meets narrative craft – the anatomy of the perfect whodunnit revealed. Join RC Bridgestock, JM Hall, and actress Natalie Anderson as they explore crime storytelling across novels, stage, radio, and screen.

Drawing on 26 real-life murder investigations and hostage negotiations, RC Bridgestock bring gritty authenticity to their fiction.This husband-and-wife team have nearly 50 years of working police experience between them. The pair are also storyline consultants on police dramas Happy Valley and Scott and Bailey.

J.M Hall, author of A Brush with Death, successful playwright (and Deputy Head of a primary school) adds his mastery of stage and radio. His plays have been produced in theatres across the UK as well as for radio, the most recent of which being Trust starring Julie Hesmondhalgh on BBC Radio 4.

Natalie Anderson brings insight as an actress (Coronation Street, Wicked), producer, presenter, singer and creator of The Capsule, a women and wellbeing platform. She also worked on the Netflix adaptation of Harlan Coben’s Fool Me Once, giving a unique perspective on crime, performance, and audience connection.

Together, this extraordinary panel will reveal how crime leaps from case files to page, stage, radio, and screen – exposing the craft, cunning and storytelling secrets behind the perfect whodunnit.

1pm: ‘Locked Room Crime’ with Tom Hindle, L.D Smithson and Rachel North

A luxury airship. A remote sea fort in a reality TV show. A private island. We’ll be in conversation with these bestselling authors about their latest novels and their locations; delving into the unfailingly entertaining subgenre of ‘locked room crime’.

Originally hailing from Leeds, Sunday Times Bestseller Tom Hindle’s newest novel ‘Death in the Arctic’ – like his previous books (including The Murder Game and A Fatal Crossing) was inspired by masters of the crime genre including Agatha Christie and Anthony Horowitz.

L. D. Smithson was born in Staffordshire and now lives in Ilkley with her husband and their three children. She is an occupational psychologist as well as a crime writer with six psychological crime thrillers under her belt.

Rachel North was born in Scarborough but now lives in Leeds. She has an MA in Creative Writing. Under the name Caroline Bond, she is the author of six novels, including two Radio 2 Book Club picks.

3pm: A Thrilling Interactive Crime-Busting Afternoon with Antony Johnston

This unique interactive experience invites you to play detective, examining clues, questioning suspects and piecing together evidence to crack the case. Guided by Antony himself, you’ll be immersed in a gripping whodunnit where your decisions shape the investigation. Come alone or gather your wannabe policing pals.

This thrilling event is inspired by Antony’s latest book ‘Can You Solve the Murder?’ Perfect for mystery lovers and puzzle solvers alike, this is your chance to put your sleuthing skills to the test. Will you be the one to solve the murder?

Book Lovers Quiz Night
2025-11-02 19:00 - 22:00 | Old Woollen, Sunnybank Mills, 83-85 Town Street, Farsley, LS28 5UJ, United Kingdom
Old Woollen and Farsley Lit Fest regular Gary Wigglesworth (The Book Lovers’ Quiz Book) returns to host our annual quiz.

This is a literary quiz book with a difference. Rather than basic sets of questions, The Book Lover’s Quiz Book mirrors the format of Gary’s live quizzes, at the Betsey Trotwood in London and elsewhere. So, there are lots of multiple-choice questions, some amusing answers, clever red herrings, little-known facts about authors and some of the much-loved Say What You See picture round.

The aim of all Gary’s quizzes, and this book, is that people should have fun and be able to guess (if they don’t know) as much as possible.Teams can be any size but each team member must have purchased an individual ticket.

Doors open at 6pm.

“Gary Wigglesworth is the quizmaster to end all quizmasters.” – David Quantick, author of Night Train & writer for The Thick of It and Veep

“Consistently fun and often very funny” – Alan Connor – author of The Joy of Quiz.

“Packed with well-thought-through questions that will have you variously scratching your head, slapping your forehead or punching the air” – Charlie Higson

”I’m blessed to be able to attend Gary’s quizzes in real life. But if you live on a farm or military base, this book is for you! But seriously folks, these are lovingly crafted, extremely fun quizzes that will jazz up your evenings big-time” – Rob Delaney

An Evening of Heartfelt Poetry in a Hectic World with Robin Ince
2025-11-03 20:00 - 22:00 | Cargo Wines, Twistings Gallery, Sunny Bank Mill, 83-85 Town Street, Farsley, Leeds, LS28 5UJ, United Kingdom
** Please note the venue has changed since this event was launched. It will now take place at Cargo Wines in Farsley **

Author Robin Ince invites you to his new show that mixes poetry and happy stories about the things that have made life delightful, from Doctor Who and horror movies, to the camaraderie of protest marches and his love of dishevelled cemeteries.

It offers an insight into his new book Ice Cream for a Broken Tooth – a series of poems written about love, death and Bela Lugosi (and graves, trees and Judi Dench).

This is Robin’s debut collection of poems and includes a selection that are connected to the neurodivergent themes of his recent book Normally Weird and Weirdly Normal.

At the Morecambe Poetry Festival 2023, Robin was officially handed his Poetic Licence (it is real, he’ll show it to you if you ask, and often if you don’t).

Robin Ince is many things. A multi award-winning comedian, author, broadcaster, bibliomaniac and a populariser of scientific ideas. He is perhaps best known as the co-host and co-creator of the Sony Gold Award winning BBC Radio 4 series The Infinite Monkey Cage with Professor Brian Cox.

‘Ice Cream for a Broken Tooth is a bold, intimate collection, in part memoir and in part rallying cry, here is an exploration of our world past and present. Robin Ince has a beautiful and observant eye for tiny details, for pockets of recollection, for fleeting moments, for tears and dark comedy, these poems contain bright snapshots of where we are, our nature and humanity, our sensitivities, our rage and our happiness.’ – Salena Godden

‘Raw, funny, sometimes painfully immediate, and heartfelt. He writes with an honesty that’s either admirable or foolish.’ – Reece Shearsmith

There will also be a selection of Robin’s other books available to buy and Robin will do a signing at the end of the evening.

Doors at 7pm

An Evening with Sir Tony Robinson
2025-11-04 20:00 - 22:00 | Old Woollen, Sunnybank Mills, 83-85 Town Street, Farsley, LS28 5UJ, United Kingdom
Sir Tony Robinson, actor, presenter, historical expert and star of Blackadder and Time Team, is set to make his adult fiction debut – so we couldn’t not bring him to Farsley Lit Fest 2025.

With stories from his remarkable career and his passion for history, we can’t wait for Tony to introduce us to The House of Wolf; an earthy, entertaining and gloriously witty tale of the Anglo-Saxons, Alfred the Great, and the making of England.

We’re keen to hear behind-the-scenes stories from his well-known TV shows, as well as how he found writing his first novel at 78! With the chance ask your questions and a post-show signing, this is set to be a night of brilliant storytelling, laughs and history with a twist.

About the Book

Rome Father Asser is waiting to die. His idealism has landed him in a papal prison on false charges of heresy, but then salvation arrives in an unexpected form.

Cardinal Balotelli also dreams of a better Europe, free from the ravages of the Norlanders. He has an important job for Asser, one that will take him home to Wessex. Wessex King Aethelwolf’s power is fading, but none of his feckless children are fit to rule. His eldest sons would rather fight each other than the blood-thirsty Norlander invaders. His daughter, Swift, is clever and cunning, but sometimes blinded by her ambition. Finally there’s Alfred, his once-promising younger son, whom nobody has seen in years.

Then Wolf meets a young priest with a proposition from Rome that could change everything. Lindisfarne Rhiannon is a slave who wants to see her Saxon captors punished for their crimes. So when she meets Guthrum, a Norlander hell-bent on wiping Wessex from the map, she sets out on a journey of destruction. So begins an epic struggle between greed and idealism, ambition and betrayal, freedom and tyranny. Because change always meets with resistance and, on the path to power, nobody can be trusted.

About the Author

Sir Tony Robinson is one of Britain’s foremost faces of popular history through presenting 20 seasons of Channel 4’s archaeology series Time Team and as the creator of the worldwide icon Baldrick in Blackadder.

In a varied and international career, he has won two RTS awards, a BAFTA and the International Prix Jeunesse. He started out at the age of 13 in Oliver! and has gone on to enjoy a long acting career in theatre, TV drama and sitcom, and an acclaimed presenting career of documentary and factual television.

He is the author of over 30 children’s books and several adult non-fiction books, including an autobiography, No Cunning Plan.

An ambassador for the Alzheimer’s Society since 2008, Sir Tony received a knighthood in the Queen’s Birthday Honours 2013.

An Evening of Zombies & Black Humour with Leigh Radford
2025-11-05 18:30 - 21:00 | Truman Books, 95 Town Street, Farsley, Leeds, LS28 5HX
Join Leigh Radford as she delves into One Yellow Eye, her darkly funny, debut novel; a zombie thriller set in London. The book is full of heartbreak, revulsion and black humour.

Leigh will tell us more about her transition from broadcast media to writing a horror novel, described by the Times as, ‘Snort-inducingly funny . . . One for those with strong stomachs and big hearts.’

About the Book

A scientist desperately searches for a cure to a zombie virus while also hiding a monumental secret.

Kesta’s husband Tim was the last person to be bitten in a zombie pandemic. The country is now in a period of respite, the government seemingly having rounded up and disposed of all the infected. But Kesta has a secret . . .

Tim may have been bitten, but he’s not quite dead yet. In fact, he’s tied to a bed in her spare room. And she’s made him a promise: find a cure, bring him back.

A scientist by day, Kesta juggles intensive work under the microscope alongside Tim’s care, slipping him stolen drugs to keep him docile, knowing she is hiding the only zombie left. But Kesta is running out of drugs – and time. Can she save her husband before he is discovered? Or worse . . . will they trigger another outbreak?

Reviews

‘An acidic, funny, queasy debut.’ – Emma Van Straaten, bestselling author of This Immaculate Body

‘Gripping, grisly and wonderfully written.’ – Daily Mail

‘Radford shapes the subgenre into something new and fresh . . . The reanimated corpses are just icing on the rotting cake.’ – New York Times

About the Author

Leigh Radford trained as a broadcast journalist. She produced and presented arts and entertainment content and documentaries for UK commercial radio, BBC Radio, Time Out, The Times and The Sun. A former book publicist, she is a 2023 graduate of Faber Academy. She is currently developing content for film and television through her production company, Kenosha Kickers.

A Delectable Evening with Food Writer Diana Henry
2025-11-07 18:30 - 21:00 | The Mill Kitchen & Bakery, 83-85 Town Street, Farsley, Leeds, LS28 5UJ
Foodies! This one is for you. Join us for an evening with Diana Henry to celebrate the release of Around the Table. Diana’s new book is a sumptuous selection, a vivid and nourishing collection of essays on the joys of good food. It is an utter delight for the senses. Diana will be chatting to us in the relaxed setting of Farsley’s popular The Mill Kitchen and Bakery, with a glass of fizz, wine, beer or soft drink included in the ticket price.

For Diana Henry’s many fans, her evocative writing about places, people and food brings just as much pleasure as her delicious recipes. Around the Table features handpicked pieces from over two decades of her beloved cookbooks, of which the Sunday Times-bestselling author has sold more than one million copies worldwide.

‘No one writes about food so beautifully…’ – London Evening Standard

From the bustling Turkish groceries of the Edgware Road to the kitchen table of a cottage in rural France, a trattoria tucked away in the suburbs of Rome to the chilly Vermont countryside famed for its maple syrup, Diana Henry has followed her tastebuds around the world.

In this collection, Diana’s writing brings ingredients to life on the page. Tuck into salty and sweet, buttery and inky purple and black olives. Blood-red threads of saffron that turn whole platters of food into gold, bleeding yolk-yellow streaks over creamy chicken and milky white yogurt. Mouth-puckeringly citrusy, easy to peel and almost seedless Valencia oranges. The simple pleasure of a warming slice of toast.

Diana writes regular columns in the Sunday Telegraph and Waitrose Weekend, her work has appeared in BBC Good Food, House & Garden and Delicious, and her broadcast appearances include BBC Radio 4.

Diana has won numerous awards for her journalism and books, including Cookery Journalist of the Year and Cookbook of the Year from the Guild of Food Writers; Cookery Writer of the Year and Cookery Book of the Year at the Fortnum & Mason Food and Drink Awards and Food Book of the Year at the André Simon Food & Drink Book Awards.

Around the Table will be available to buy on the evening with the opportunity to have it signed by Diana.

An Evening Escaping the 9 to 5 with Suzan Holder
2025-11-11 18:30 - 21:00 | Truman Books, 95 Town Street, Farsley, Leeds, LS28 5HX
Yeeha! Calling all rom-com fans. Don’t miss this evening of laughter, stories, music, fizz and fun. As part of Farsley Lit Fest 2025, we are delighted to announce a super entertaining event with Suzan Holder.

Suzan will not only be telling us more about her new, funny and heartwarming book that reveals the exploits of Becky, a Dolly Parton tribute act, she’ll also be performing a musical number for us. Cowboy boots and hats not essential – but certainly welcomed!

Join us for a glass of fizz as we celebrate What Would Dolly Do? – a glittering romcom with a musical twist, full of inspiring Dolly Parton-isms and a love story that will leave your heart singing.

What Would Dolly Do? is not just a love song to a musical icon, but a wake-up call for anyone who thinks they’ve missed their chance that it’s never too late to find your voice and follow your heart.

Suzan is a lifelong Dolly Parton fan and travelled to Nashville as part of research for her book, perfect for readers of Sarah Morgan, Rebecca Raisin, Carole Matthews, and Milly Johnson.

Suzan trained as a journalist and worked on regional and national newspapers before moving into TV production, where she worked on a variety of ITV news and lifestyle programmes including as Series Producer of ITV’s daytime show Loose Women.

Married to musician, actor and presenter Noddy Holder, Suzan’s love of music runs through her writing. What Would Dolly Do? is her third novel, following Rock ‘N’ Rose and her debut Shake It Up, Beverley which was adapted from her original, award-winning play Shake It Up, Baby that has been performed across the UK.

About the Book

Dolly Parton tribute singer Becky Mooney has such terrible stage fright she can only perform when dressed up as country music’s biggest and blondest star. But after splitting with her boyfriend and Kenny Rogers singing partner, she pours herself a cup of ambition and decides to chase her dreams alone.

As Becky searches for a way forward, a surprise encounter with a handsome country music star propels her along a path to romance, revenge and the rockabilly road to Nashville. But can she find the route to who she really is and learn to shine like a diamond in a rhinestone world?

What Would Dolly Do? will be available to buy on the evening with the opportunity to have it signed by Suzan.

Truman’s Book Club Social – Wed 12th Nov
2025-11-12 18:30 - 20:00 | Cargo Wines, Twistings Gallery, Sunny Bank Mill, 83-85 Town Street, Farsley, Leeds, LS28 5UJ, United Kingdom
At Truman’s Book Club Social in November, hosted at Cargo Wines here in Farsley, we’ll be discussing the book ‘You Are Here’ – by David Nicholls.

A ticket to attend Truman’s Book Club Social is £15. This includes the book (that will be available for you to collect in the shop once you’ve made a booking online) and your first drink on the evening (beer, wine or soft drink). If you already have the book, you can select a ticket that will include a £10 Truman’s Gift Voucher instead of a book.

About the Book

Sometimes you need to get lost to find your way…

Marnie is stuck.Stuck working alone in her London flat, stuck battling the long afternoons and a life that often feels like it’s passing her by.

Michael is coming undone.Reeling from his wife’s departure, increasingly reclusive, taking himself on long, solitary walks across the moors and fells.

When a persistent mutual friend and some very English weather conspire to bring them together, Marnie and Michael suddenly find themselves alone on the most epic of walks and on the precipice of a new friendship.

But can they survive the journey?

When & Where?

This Truman’s Book Club Social will take place on Wednesday 12th November, 6.30pm (for a 7pm start), at Cargo Wines, Sunny Bank Mills. One of the benefits of us hosting our Book Club in a Wine Bar means that when the book chat is done, if you wish, you’re free to stay on to continue to enjoy the company and the conversation, and maybe another drink or two.

We’d like a relaxed evening of booky chat, so if the thought of sitting round in a big circle feels a little intimidating, this is the Book Club for you. Our aim is to have a more informal feel, with smaller groups sat chatting around tables. We can help you find a seat and make sure everyone feels comfortable.

We’re thinking an hour of chat about the month’s book (and the topics and experiences it leads to). In the future, we’d love to be able to welcome guest authors to join us to discuss their books.

Hope to see you there!

An Exciting Celebration of Jack Reacher’s 30th Adventure with Bestselling Author Andrew Child
2025-11-14 13:00 - 15:00 | Old Woollen, Sunnybank Mills, 83-85 Town Street, Farsley, LS28 5UJ, United Kingdom
This is your opportunity to meet bestselling author Andrew Child and to gain a personal insight into ‘the coolest continuing series character’ * who returns in 2025 with his 30th adventure!

We all need a Jack Reacher – a righteous avenger for our troubled times. Everyone loves him – from Haruki Murakami to Ken Folett, Kate Atkinson to Peter James, Reacher’s fans span genres.

And now, to celebrate Exit Strategy – the brand new, pulse-pounding read, it’s global bestselling author Andrew Child, will be visiting us here in Leeds, all the way from his home in Wyoming!

The 30th Jack Reacher thriller, and the sixth in the universally acclaimed collaboration between brothers Lee and Andrew Child, will take the beloved hero on his most unexpected adventure yet. Make sure you join them.

‘There’s only one Jack Reacher. Accept no substitutes.’ – Mick Herron

‘It’s no wonder Jack Reacher is everyone’s favourite rebel hero.’ – Karin Slaughter

Reacher #29, In Too Deep, was a Sunday Times Number One bestseller in HB, and spent 13 weeks in the top 10 in Hardback, selling over 420,000 copies worldwide across all formats.

About the Book – Exit Strategy – Published 4th November 2025

Jack Reacher will make three stops today. Not all of them were planned for. First – a Baltimore coffee shop. A seat in the corner, facing the door. Black coffee, two refils, no messing about. A minor interruption from two of the customers, but nothing he can’t deal with swiftly. As he leaves, a young guy brushes against him in the doorway. Instinctively Reacher checks the pocket holding his cash and passport. There’s no problem. Nothing is missing.

Second – a store to buy a coat. Nothing fancy. Something he can ditch when he heads to warmer climes. Large enough to fit a man the size of a bank vault. As he pulls out his cash, he finds something new in his pocket. A handwritten note. A desperate plea for help.

Third – wherever this bend in the road takes him. Impressed by the guy’s technique and intrigued by the message, Reacher makes it his mission to find out more…..

*Stephen King

Truman's Book Club Social - Tues 25th Nov
2025-11-25 18:30 - 20:00 | Cargo Wines, Twistings Gallery, Sunny Bank Mill, 83-85 Town Street, Farsley, Leeds, LS28 5UJ, United Kingdom
At Truman’s Book Club Social in November, hosted at Cargo Wines here in Farsley, we’ll be discussing the book ‘You Are Here’ – by David Nicholls.

A ticket to attend Truman’s Book Club Social is £15. This includes the book (that will be available for you to collect in the shop once you’ve made a booking online) and your first drink on the evening (beer, wine or soft drink). If you already have the book, you can select a ticket that will include a £10 Truman’s Gift Voucher instead of a book.

About the Book

Sometimes you need to get lost to find your way…

Marnie is stuck.Stuck working alone in her London flat, stuck battling the long afternoons and a life that often feels like it’s passing her by.

Michael is coming undone.Reeling from his wife’s departure, increasingly reclusive, taking himself on long, solitary walks across the moors and fells.

When a persistent mutual friend and some very English weather conspire to bring them together, Marnie and Michael suddenly find themselves alone on the most epic of walks and on the precipice of a new friendship.

But can they survive the journey?

When & Where?

This Truman’s Book Club Social will take place on Tuesday 25th November, 6.30pm (for a 7pm start), at Cargo Wines, Sunny Bank Mills. One of the benefits of us hosting our Book Club in a Wine Bar means that when the book chat is done, if you wish, you’re free to stay on to continue to enjoy the company and the conversation, and maybe another drink or two.

We’d like a relaxed evening of booky chat, so if the thought of sitting round in a big circle feels a little intimidating, this is the Book Club for you. Our aim is to have a more informal feel, with smaller groups sat chatting around tables. We can help you find a seat and make sure everyone feels comfortable.

We’re thinking an hour of chat about the month’s book (and the topics and experiences it leads to). In the future, we’d love to be able to welcome guest authors to join us to discuss their books.

Hope to see you there!

A Killer Evening for Christmas with Sarah Dunnakey
2025-12-02 18:30 - 21:00 | Truman Books, 95 Town Street, Farsley, Leeds, LS28 5HX
Armchair detectives! Join author & TV quiz question setter Sarah Dunnakey for the perfect pre-Christmas treat.

This December, head to the bookshop to find out more about The 12 Murders of Christmas – the ultimate killer puzzle book where Richard Osman meets Murdle.

Sarah will give us an insight into how she put together this exciting book that features twelve festive tales – with a twist. At the end of each story, readers receive a clue – with the aim of solving a mystery in time for Christmas. We invite you to find out more about these twelve puzzling whodunnits that will test even the most seasoned of sleuths and serve as fascinating reading for the whole family.

When she’s not writing fiction, Sarah writes and verifies questions for a variety of TV quiz shows including Mastermind, University Challenge and Pointless – so plenty to chat about there too!

Sarah has not only been shortlisted, but has won several short story competitions, and has been published in anthologies and broadcast on Radio 4.

Truman’s Book Club Social Christmas Party
2025-12-16 19:00 - 22:00 | Old Woollen, Sunnybank Mills, 83-85 Town Street, Farsley, LS28 5UJ, United Kingdom
This isn’t just another festive night out – it’s the ultimate bookish Christmas party!

Join us at The Old Woollen to celebrate the season with guest authors, goody bags, giveaways, games, dancing and a book-themed Secret Santa. It’s a night to celebrate the time we’ve spent reading, discussing books and building friendships since Book Club began.

We’ll be inviting all our guest authors up on stage to introduce themselves and their books, plus you’ll get to meet and mingle in a fantastic party atmosphere, as well as visit our giant book table with the opportunity to buy their books. It’s the ideal opportunity to start or add to your 2026 reading list and maybe buy a Christmas present or two.

Whether you’ve been to our Book Club just once, twice or are a regular attendee, do come along. Equally, if you haven’t quite made it to one of our evenings, this could be the perfect introduction.

Your Christmas Party To-Do List

* Book yourself a ticket

* Organise your outfit. Come dressed as your favourite character or embrace the bookish theme – prizes to be won. It’s optional, so feel free to come as yourself!

* Wrap a book to gift for our Secret Santa

SEE YOU THERE!

Truman’s Book Club Social – Wed 14th January
2026-01-14 18:30 - 20:00 | Cargo Wine Bar, Twistings Gallery, Sunny Bank Mill, 83-85 Town Street, Farsley, Leeds, LS28 5UJ
At Truman’s Book Club Social in January, hosted at Cargo Wines here in Farsley, we’ll be discussing the book The Lamb by Lucy Rose.

A ticket to attend Truman’s Book Club Social is £18. This includes the book (that will be available for you to collect in the shop once you’ve made a booking online) and your first drink on the evening (beer, wine or soft drink). If you already have the book, you can select a ticket that will include a £10 Truman’s Gift Voucher instead of a book.

About the Book

A FOLK TALE. A HORROR STORY. A LOVE STORY. AN ENCHANTMENT.

Margot and Mama have lived by the forest since Margot can remember. When Margot isn’t at school, they spend quiet days together in their cottage, waiting for strangers to knock on their door. Strays, Mama calls them. Mama loves the strays. She feeds them wine, keeps them warm. Then she satisfies her burning appetite by picking apart their bodies.

But Mama’s want is stronger than her hunger sometimes, and when a white-toothed stray named Eden turns up in the heart of a snowstorm, little Margot must confront the shifting dynamics of her family, untangle her own desires and make a bid for freedom.

With this tender coming-of-age tale, debut novelist Lucy Rose explores how women swallow their anger, desire and animal instincts – and wrings the relationship between mother and daughter until blood drips from it.

When & Where?

This Truman’s Book Club Social will take place on Wednesday 14th January, 6.30pm (for a 7pm start), at Cargo Wines, Sunny Bank Mills. One of the benefits of us hosting our Book Club in a Wine Bar means that when the book chat is done, if you wish, you’re free to stay on to continue to enjoy the company and the conversation, and maybe another drink or two.

We’d like a relaxed evening of booky chat, so if the thought of sitting round in a big circle feels a little intimidating, this is the Book Club for you. Our aim is to have a more informal feel, with smaller groups sat chatting around tables. We can help you find a seat and make sure everyone feels comfortable.

We’re thinking an hour of chat about the month’s book (and the topics and experiences it leads to). In the future, we’d love to be able to welcome guest authors to join us to discuss their books.

Hope to see you there!

Truman’s Book Club Social – Tues 27th January
2026-01-27 18:30 - 20:00 | Cargo Wines, Twistings Gallery, Sunny Bank Mill, 83-85 Town Street, Farsley, Leeds, LS28 5UJ, United Kingdom
At Truman’s Book Club Social in January, hosted at Cargo Wines here in Farsley, we’ll be discussing the book The Lamb by Lucy Rose.

A ticket to attend Truman’s Book Club Social is £18. This includes the book (that will be available for you to collect in the shop once you’ve made a booking online) and your first drink on the evening (beer, wine or soft drink). If you already have the book, you can select a ticket that will include a £10 Truman’s Gift Voucher instead of a book.

About the Book

A FOLK TALE. A HORROR STORY. A LOVE STORY. AN ENCHANTMENT.

Margot and Mama have lived by the forest since Margot can remember. When Margot isn’t at school, they spend quiet days together in their cottage, waiting for strangers to knock on their door. Strays, Mama calls them. Mama loves the strays. She feeds them wine, keeps them warm. Then she satisfies her burning appetite by picking apart their bodies.

But Mama’s want is stronger than her hunger sometimes, and when a white-toothed stray named Eden turns up in the heart of a snowstorm, little Margot must confront the shifting dynamics of her family, untangle her own desires and make a bid for freedom.

With this tender coming-of-age tale, debut novelist Lucy Rose explores how women swallow their anger, desire and animal instincts – and wrings the relationship between mother and daughter until blood drips from it.

When & Where?

This Truman’s Book Club Social will take place on Tuesday 27th January, 6.30pm (for a 7pm start), at Cargo Wines, Sunny Bank Mills. One of the benefits of us hosting our Book Club in a Wine Bar means that when the book chat is done, if you wish, you’re free to stay on to continue to enjoy the company and the conversation, and maybe another drink or two.

We’d like a relaxed evening of booky chat, so if the thought of sitting round in a big circle feels a little intimidating, this is the Book Club for you. Our aim is to have a more informal feel, with smaller groups sat chatting around tables. We can help you find a seat and make sure everyone feels comfortable.

We’re thinking an hour of chat about the month’s book (and the topics and experiences it leads to). In the future, we’d love to be able to welcome guest authors to join us to discuss their books.

Hope to see you there!

An Evening of Yorkshire-based Historical Fiction with Liz Flanagan
2026-02-10 18:30 - 21:00 | Truman Books, 95 Town Street, Farsley, Leeds, LS28 5HX
Join us in the bookshop as we chat to award-winning author Liz Flanagan as she releases her brand-new debut, historical fiction When we were Divided.

Taking a new direction writing historical fiction for adults, multi-award-winning children’s author Liz Flanagan presents a searing debut. Expertly crafted and beautifully sensitive, this book with its themes of family and political conflict, and pure but forbidden love, will stay with readers long after they’ve turned the last page.

About the Book

Divided by plague, divided by war, divided by love – what will reunite two sisters? Yorkshire, 1643. Civil war divides the country. Jane mourns the departure of her last boy who goes off to fight for the king. She must find a new way to endure, facing family secrets and her own buried grief. Isabel is spurred into action, finding herself drawn into the rebel resistance – with unexpected consequences that might mean disaster for her sister Jane.

Kit is left desperate and starving, taking on the identity of a murdered brother. Life in the king’s army brings friendship, new hope and even love at the most perilous moment of all. As these three lives intertwine, each of them will be altered forever..

About the Author

Liz Flanagan is an award-winning author whose previous books were for children and young adults. When We Were Divided is her first novel for adults. She teaches Creative Writing in many different settings and previously worked as a book editor and as Centre Director for Arvon at Ted Hughes’s former home, Lumb Bank. She lives in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire, with her family and pets and loves to walk in the beautiful landscape of her hometown.

Truman's Book Club Social - Wed 11th Feb
2026-02-11 18:30 - 20:00 | Cargo Wines, Twistings Gallery, Sunny Bank Mill, 83-85 Town Street, Farsley, Leeds, LS28 5UJ, United Kingdom
At Truman’s Book Club Social in February, hosted at Cargo Wines here in Farsley, we’ll be discussing the book The Offing by Benjamin Myers.

A ticket to attend Truman’s Book Club Social is £18. This includes the book (that will be available for you to collect in the shop once you’ve made a booking online) and your first drink on the evening (beer, wine or soft drink). If you already have the book, you can select a ticket that will include a £10 Truman’s Gift Voucher instead of a book.

About the Book

*Soon to be a major film starring Helena Bonham-Carter, from the Walter Scott Prize-Winning Author of The Gallows Pole comes a powerful new novela.

One summer following the Second World War, Robert Appleyard sets out on foot from his Durham village. Sixteen and the son of a coal miner, he makes his way across the northern countryside until he reaches the former smuggling village of Robin Hood’s Bay. There he meets Dulcie, an eccentric, worldly, older woman who lives in a ramshackle cottage facing out to sea.

Staying with Dulcie, Robert’s life opens into one of rich food, sea-swimming, sunburn and poetry. The two come from different worlds, yet as the summer months pass, they form an unlikely friendship that will profoundly alter their futures.

‘What a radical thing, these days, to have written a book so full of warmth and kindness … Gorgeous’ – Max Porter, author of Lanny.

When & Where?

This Truman’s Book Club Social will take place on Wednesday 11th February, 6.30pm (for a 7pm start), at Cargo Wines, Sunny Bank Mills. One of the benefits of us hosting our Book Club in a Wine Bar means that when the book chat is done, if you wish, you’re free to stay on to continue to enjoy the company and the conversation, and maybe another drink or two.

We’d like a relaxed evening of booky chat, so if the thought of sitting round in a big circle feels a little intimidating, this is the Book Club for you. Our aim is to have a more informal feel, with smaller groups sat chatting around tables. We can help you find a seat and make sure everyone feels comfortable.

We’re thinking an hour of chat about the month’s book (and the topics and experiences it leads to). In the future, we’d love to be able to welcome guest authors to join us to discuss their books.

Hope to see you there!

An Evening with Elly Griffiths: Step into another Thrilling Case
2026-02-17 20:00 - 22:00 | Old Woollen, Sunnybank Mills, 83-85 Town Street, Farsley, LS28 5UJ, United Kingdom
Join us in conversation with award-winning crime author Elly Griffiths, as she celebrates the launch of another thrilling case for Ali Dawson and her cold case team.

Elly is the internationally bestselling author of the beloved Dr Ruth Galloway stories, the gripping Brighton Mysteries and the Sunday Times bestseller The Frozen People. Known for her sharp plotting, richly drawn characters and sense of place. Elly will be joining us the week her new book The Killing Time is published.

Elly will be here in Farsley, at The Old Woollen, sharing behind the scenes insights into the new story, the characters and her writing process, as well as answering all your burning questions and signing your books.

‘A new book by Elly Griffiths is always a cause of delight, and this series promises to broaden our horizons. Ali Dawson will capture readers’ hearts the way Ruth Galloway did’ – Mick Herron

About the BookAli Dawson is a police detective who leads a unit that investigates cases so cold her team must travel to the distant past to solve them. But Ali and the team haven’t been allowed to time-travel ever since their technical expert, Jones, got stuck in Victorian London, never to be seen again.To distract herself from meaningless tasks, Ali decides to look into a present-day case – an apparent suicide of a young man who fell to his death from a high building. She believes the death is linked to a psychic medium called Barry Power, who convinced the boy he could fly. Ali goes to one of Power’s shows where he claims to be in contact with Jones.When Ali notices that evening that her cat, Terry, has gone missing, she decides to go back in time just long enough to prevent Terry from escaping through his open cat flap. A dangerous plan which backfires, and she finds herself once more in Victorian London, where she meets Jones, as well as Power, and the darkly mysterious Cain Templeton with whom Ali has unfinished business from her previous visit to the past . . .About the AuthorElly Griffiths was born in London. She read English at King’s College, London, and worked in publishing for many years. She has won the CWA Dagger in the Library, has been shortlisted five times for the Theakston’s Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year, and longlisted for the CWA Gold Dagger for The Lantern Men. Her series featuring Detective Harbinder Kaur began with The Stranger Diaries, which was a Richard and Judy book club pick and won the Edgar Award for Best Novel in the USA.

Truman's Book Club Social - Tues 24th Feb
2026-02-24 18:30 - 20:00 | Cargo Wines, Twistings Gallery, Sunny Bank Mill, 83-85 Town Street, Farsley, Leeds, LS28 5UJ, United Kingdom
At Truman’s Book Club Social in February, hosted at Cargo Wines here in Farsley, we’ll be discussing the book The Offing by Benjamin Myers.

A ticket to attend Truman’s Book Club Social is £18. This includes the book (which will be available for you to collect in the shop once you’ve made a booking online) and your first drink on the evening (beer, wine or soft drink). If you already have the book, you can select a ticket that will include a £10 Truman’s Gift Voucher instead of a book.

About the Book

*Soon to be a major film starring Helena Bonham-Carter, from the Walter Scott Prize-Winning Author of The Gallows Pole comes a powerful new novela.

One summer following the Second World War, Robert Appleyard sets out on foot from his Durham village. Sixteen and the son of a coal miner, he makes his way across the northern countryside until he reaches the former smuggling village of Robin Hood’s Bay. There he meets Dulcie, an eccentric, worldly, older woman who lives in a ramshackle cottage facing out to sea.

Staying with Dulcie, Robert’s life opens into one of rich food, sea-swimming, sunburn and poetry. The two come from different worlds, yet as the summer months pass, they form an unlikely friendship that will profoundly alter their futures.

‘What a radical thing, these days, to have written a book so full of warmth and kindness … Gorgeous’ – Max Porter, author of Lanny.

When & Where?

This Truman’s Book Club Social will take place on Tuesday 24th February, 6.30pm (for a 7pm start), at Cargo Wines, Sunny Bank Mills. One of the benefits of us hosting our Book Club in a Wine Bar means that when the book chat is done, if you wish, you’re free to stay on to continue to enjoy the company and the conversation, and maybe another drink or two.

We’d like a relaxed evening of booky chat, so if the thought of sitting round in a big circle feels a little intimidating, this is the Book Club for you. Our aim is to have a more informal feel, with smaller groups sat chatting around tables. We can help you find a seat and make sure everyone feels comfortable.

We’re thinking an hour of chat about the month’s book (and the topics and experiences it leads to). In the future, we’d love to be able to welcome guest authors to join us to discuss their books.

Hope to see you there!

Book Signing with UK Children's Laureate - Frank Cottrell-Boyce
2026-02-26 16:00 - 17:30 | Truman Books, 95 Town Street, Farsley, Leeds, LS28 5HX
We are thrilled to announce that in the lead up to World Book Day, we will be welcoming Children’s Laureate, bestselling author and award-winning screenwriter, Frank Cottrell-Boyce, to the bookshop.

Frank will be signing his latest paperback book, The Blockbusters!

This is a fantastic opportunity for children (and adults!) to meet a bestselling author and receive a copy of Frank’s book, signed by the man himself!

This event will be in the bookshop. There will be a queue system to meet Frank (this may include waiting outside so please dress for the weather.) All children must be accompanied by an adult. One ticket includes one copy of the book but will allow the family entrance. Please buy two tickets if you require two books, and so on… If you cannot make the event, we will get the book signed for you, for collection at a later date.

About the Book

The Blockbusters is a hilarious middle-grade adventure which offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the making of a major blockbuster movie. The story follows young Rafa, who comes across a film set and swaps places with a famous actor. So begins a high-octane adventure involving Hollywood glamour, mixed up phones and a missing brother…

With authentic insight into the chaos and excitement of film-making, and brimming with the writer’s trademark wit and enchanting storytelling, this is the perfect book for every reader aged 8 – 12.

Awards

Frank Cottrell-Boyce is a multi-award- winning children’s book author. His debut children’s novel Millions won the prestigious CILIP Carnegie Medal.

His other books include Cosmic, Framed, The Astounding Broccoli Boy, Sputnik’s Guide to Life on Earth, Runaway Robot, Noah’s Gold and The Wonder Brothers. He has enjoyed a long-time collaboration with award-winning illustrator Steven Lenton. His books have also been shortlisted for a multitude of prizes, including the Guardian Children’s Fiction Prize, the Whitbread Children’s Fiction Award, The Roald Dahl Funny Prize and the Blue Peter Book Award.

Come along to meet Frank in the bookshop and get your copy of Blockbusters! personally signed.

An Evening with Jennie Godfrey
2026-03-10 20:00 - 22:00 | Old Woollen, Sunnybank Mills, 83-85 Town Street, Farsley, LS28 5UJ, United Kingdom
Jennie Godfrey’s debut book The List of Suspicious Things found itself on the Truman Books Top 10 Bestseller List, month after month, so we know there are going to plenty of excited readers (including us), delighted to hear about her return!

Bestselling author Jennie will join us at The Old Woollen here in Farsley in March to celebrate the launch of The Barbecue at No.9, another startling novel of community and family in the 1980s.

About the book

It’s the summer of 1985 and the residents of Delmont Close are preparing a neighbourhood barbecue to watch the biggest music event in history: Live Aid. A day like no other that will end having reached millions and changing the lives of all who attend.House-proud Lydia Gordon, whose idols are Princess Di and Delia Smith, is determined to put on a show that will impress everyone – with her posh garden and state-of-the-art television, and her sweet husband and two children, Hanna and David.But as the guests flood into number nine, so do all of the secrets that have been kept in the close.Rita, a new neighbour from Australia, is hoping for a fresh start but harbours a shocking event in her past; Steve, a young Falklands veteran, battles his own demons; and Mr Wilson is surely too good-looking to ever be trusted.But as the hours count down to the last performance of the night, it’s Lydia who faces the heart-breaking truth that her immaculate home and flawless family might not be so perfect after all.

“From the very first page I was in awe. I LOVED it.”– Marian Keyes“A beautiful story about secrets, lies and community.” – Graham Norton“A delicious and irresistible story. An utter treat.” – Rachel Joyce“Gripping, suspenseful, moving, perfectly constructed.” – Sophie Hannah

About the author

Jennie Godfrey was raised in West Yorkshire in a mill-working family and her debut novel, The List of Suspicious Things, was inspired by her childhood there in the 1970s. In 2020, Jennie gave up her corporate career to build a life around books. She is now a writer and part-time bookseller who lives, and writes, in the Somerset countryside.

Truman’s Book Club Social – Wed 11th March
2026-03-11 18:30 - 20:00 | Cargo Wines, Twistings Gallery, Sunny Bank Mill, 83-85 Town Street, Farsley, Leeds, LS28 5UJ, United Kingdom
At Truman’s Book Club Social in March, hosted at Cargo Wines here in Farsley, we’ll be discussing the book Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata.

A ticket to attend Truman’s Book Club Social is £18. This includes the book (which will be available for you to collect in the shop once you’ve made a booking online) and your first drink on the evening (beer, wine or soft drink). If you already have the book, you can select a ticket that will include a £10 Truman’s Gift Voucher instead of a book.

About the Book

‘Exhilaratingly weird and funny… Unsettling and totally unpredictable – my copy is now heavily underlined’ – Sally Rooney

Meet Keiko. She’s 36 years old, has never had a boyfriend, and she’s been working in the same supermarket for eighteen years.

Keiko’s family wishes she’d get a proper job. Her friends wonder why she won’t get married. But Keiko knows what makes her happy, and she’s not going to let anyone come between her and her convenience store…

A cult hit around the world, Convenience Store Woman is both a feminist rallying cry and a must-read oddball comedy.

‘A gem of a book. Quirky, deadpan, poignant and quietly profound’ – Ruth Ozeki

When & Where?

This Truman’s Book Club Social will take place on Wednesday 11th March, 6.30pm (for a 7pm start), at Cargo Wines, Sunny Bank Mills. One of the benefits of us hosting our Book Club in a Wine Bar means that when the book chat is done, if you wish, you’re free to stay on to continue to enjoy the company and the conversation, and maybe another drink or two.

We’d like a relaxed evening of booky chat, so if the thought of sitting round in a big circle feels a little intimidating, this is the Book Club for you. Our aim is to have a more informal feel, with smaller groups sat chatting around tables. We can help you find a seat and make sure everyone feels comfortable.

We’re thinking an hour of chat about the month’s book (and the topics and experiences it leads to). In the future, we’d love to be able to welcome guest authors to join us to discuss their books.

Hope to see you there!

An Evening of Crime Fiction with a Real-Life Police Background with Neil Lancaster
2026-03-19 18:30 - 21:00 | Leeds
Join Neil Lancaster, a former Military Policeman and Met Detective, turned bestselling author, for the release of his new book The Dark Heart.

Neil’s authentic crime-writing style stems from his police background, investigating serious crimes in the capital and beyond. Dark Heart is Neil’s latest nail-biting suspense thriller, perfect for fans of procedural crime-writing.

We’re set to discover how Neil has taken his time as a covert policing specialist, using all manner of techniques to investigate and disrupt major crime and criminals, to create a gripping series featuring protagonist DS Max Craigie.

About the Book

A DEADLY BOMBINGWhen renowned author Dr. Daniel Solomon is killed in a devastating explosion in York, authorities quickly attribute the attack to Islamic extremists. But as the investigation unfolds, it becomes clear that all is not as it seems.

A DARK CONSPIRACY DS Max Craigie uncovers a chilling connection between a series of brutal murders, each victim linked by a secret that someone is determined to protect.

A DANGEROUS GAMEWith the number of victims growing and an elusive figure known as The Cashier operating in the shadows, Max must navigate a web of corruption and hatred. Can he unravel the truth before more lives are lost?

About the Author

Neil Lancaster is the No. 1 digital bestselling author of both the Tom Novak and Max Craigie series. His first Craigie novel, Dead Man’s Grave, was longlisted for the 2021 McIlvanney Prize for Best Scottish Crime Book of the Year. The second Craigie novel, The Blood Tide, topped several ebook and audio charts. It was also longlisted for the 2022 McIlvanney Prize and shortlisted for Best New Series at the Dead Good Reader Awards.

Neil served as a military policeman and worked for the Metropolitan Police as a detective, investigating serious crimes in the capital and beyond. As a covert policing specialist, he used all manner of techniques to investigate and disrupt major crime and criminals. He now lives in the Scottish Highlands, writes crime and thriller novels and works as a broadcaster and commentator on true crime documentaries. He is an expert on two Sky Crime TV series, Meet, Marry, Murder and Made for Murder.

‘Non-stop action, breakneck pace, deliciously suspenseful… When Shadows Fall was my first DS Max Craigie book and won’t be my last – I loved it.’ – Andrea Mara

‘A good old police procedural… I was pleasantly terrified.’ – The Guardian

An Evening with Clare Mackintosh
2026-04-14 20:00 - 22:00 | Old Woollen, Sunnybank Mills, 83-85 Town Street, Farsley, LS28 5UJ, United Kingdom
Bestselling author Clare Mackintosh joins us to launch her latest gripping psychological thriller, It’s Not What You Think.

‘A nail-biter of a thriller‘ – SHARI LAPENA

Drawing on her experience as a former police officer, It’s Not What You Think is a gripping domestic drama. Clare will be giving us an insight into the inspiration behind her fast-paced plots, brilliant characters and the big twists her books deliver.

‘I always see twists coming – but not this time’ – LEE CHILD

Following the interview, Clare will be signing copies of her books.

‘This book is so addictive it should come with a warning’ – ALICE FEENEY

Clare spent twelve years in the UK police force, including time in CID, leaving to work as a freelance journalist. She now writes full time. Clare’s debut I Let You Go was the fastest-selling title by a new crime writer in 2015 and won the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year.

Clare’s other books include Other People’s Houses, Game of Lies and Hostage.

About the Book

Publishing 26th March 2026

YOU THINK YOU KNOW THE PEOPLE YOU LOVE

Nadeeka is certain Jamie is having an affair. She knows the tell-tale signs. She’s been here before.

YOU THINK YOU KNOW WHO YOU CAN TRUST

When Jamie claims to be at work late, she knows he’s lying. He’s with another woman, and she’s determined to catch him in the act.

YOU THINK YOU KNOW HOW THE STORY ENDSBut when Nadeeka arrives home to confront him, Jamie can’t explain himself. The house has become a crime scene… Jamie is dead.

Doors at 7pm
