Book lovers on the Isle of Wight are being invited to meet award-winning author Emily Bullock as she returns to Ventnor Library to discuss her latest novel, Almost a Ghost Story, inspired by the Island's landscapes, communities and famous Fringe Festival.
The free event takes place on Friday 30 October at 6.30pm, offering readers the chance to discover how familiar Island locations helped shape the characters and storyline of her atmospheric new book.
Set in and around Ventnor and the Isle of Wight Fringe Festival, Almost a Ghost Story begins aboard a midnight ferry crossing to the Island, where four passengers find their lives and destinies tragically intertwined.
The novel explores the connections between its characters against the backdrop of some of the Isle of Wight's most recognisable locations.
Emily, who grew up on the Island and has recently returned to live there, has built a successful writing career and received national recognition for her work.
She is a winner of the prestigious Bristol Short Story Prize, while her debut novel, The Longest Fight, was shortlisted for the Cross Sports Book Awards and included among The Independent's Paperbacks of the Year.
During the event, Emily will discuss her writing career, the inspiration behind Almost a Ghost Story and the ways in which Ventnor and the wider Island influenced its setting and characters.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to ask questions about her creative process and how she develops her stories.
Louise Emery, development librarian, said:
"We're delighted to welcome Emily Bullock back to Ventnor Library to talk about her latest novel. Emily has a strong connection to the Isle of Wight and it's wonderful to see local places and communities reflected in her work.
"This event is a fantastic opportunity for readers to meet an accomplished author, learn more about the inspiration behind her writing and celebrate a novel that is firmly rooted in the Island. We expect plenty of interest, so we'd encourage people to reserve a place early."
Copies of Almost a Ghost Story are already available to borrow from Ventnor Library, giving readers the opportunity to discover the novel ahead of the event.
Following the author's visit, the book will also become available as a reading group set for Island book clubs, allowing local readers to explore and discuss the story together.
Signed copies can be purchased from Waterstones in Newport, while Emily will bring copies of all her novels to the library event for visitors wishing to buy them. Purchases at the event will be cash only.
Organisers say the evening is an opportunity to celebrate local literary talent while discovering how the Isle of Wight continues to inspire writers and storytellers.
The event is free to attend, although places are limited and advance booking is recommended.
Anyone wishing to attend can reserve a place by visiting Ventnor Library or calling 01983 852039.
The event takes place at Ventnor Library on Friday 30 October, starting at 6.30pm.
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