Head to South Shields this September to attend WRITEFest 2025, a one-day event that not only highlights established local authors but also aims to empower the next generation.

Lucy Rose (pictured) lives on the north-east coast and is one of the literary sensations of the year. Her creepy novel ‘The Lamb’ has won huge praise for its nightmarish take on the folk horror genre and its paperback release is due on 25 September. Before then however Rose will be one of the star turns at this year’s WRITEFest 2025, which is set to return to The Word in South Shields this September. She’ll be in conversation with Jessie Elland (Emmerdale actress and debut novelist), and they will be offering practical advice on turning ideas into novels and also giving tips on navigating the publishing world. Other highlights will include ‘The Poet’s Survival Guide’ (a panel with Meg Pattie, Rob Walton and Ilisha Thiru Purcell who will be exploring how poets can sustain their creative practise, find publishing opportunities and build supportive communities) and ‘Publishing: A Glimpse Behind the Curtain’ (industry insights from Haunt Publishing, Mslexia Magazine and New Writing North). RM

WRITEFest 2025, Sunday 14 September, The Word, South Shields, tickets £3 for each event, linktr.ee/inpressbooks