Hello lovely readers and fellow LitFest wanderers!
I’ll admit something up front I’m not the most avid reader. I always want to read more, but life (and running a boutique!) has a way of keeping me busy. That said, Marlborough Literature Festival always manages to spark something in me, and this year is no exception. It’s a proper highlight of the town’s calendar and for good reason.
The festival runs from Thursday 26th to Sunday 29th September, and the line-up is as exciting as ever.
Last year, I went to hear Kate Mosse speak, and I was completely captivated. I left the Town Hall inspired and immediately bought all her books—from the Languedoc Trilogy to The Joubert Family Chronicles. There’s something so special about hearing authors bring their own stories to life in person, especially in such an intimate setting.
The Sunday, I’ll be heading back to the Town Hall to see the incredible Mary Portas, a name many of you will know and love. She’s a trailblazer, an author, a broadcaster, and an expert on all things retail (so naturally, I’m all ears). I can't wait to hear her thoughts on creativity, purpose, and business plus she’s always entertaining and a great person to follow on Instagram!
My husband Tom, who’s a real World War II enthusiast, is especially looking forward to seeing Tim Bouverie discuss Allies at War: The Politics of Defeating Hitler—a deep dive into the political tensions behind the scenes. And I’ve also heard from another writer that Rupert Everett is an absolute must-see apparently he’s incredibly funny, sharp, and just as talented in person as he is on screen.
At Marlborough LitFest there is something for everyone, whether you’re an avid reader or just curious. It brings stories to life in such an engaging and accessible way, and the talks often stay with me long after they’ve ended. Most of all, it captures everything I love about Marlborough itself: charm, creativity, and a strong sense of community.
I’ll be sure to share a little round-up afterwards and I’m especially hoping that Mary Portas inspires me to keep pushing on and believing in the future of independent high street retail.
