From Fork to Fiction: Food and Drink Writers Turned Novelists

Not content with feeding us dinner or pouring the perfect glass, some of our favourite food and drink writers are now serving up murder, mystery and mayhem. Swapping the kitchen and corkscrew for plot twists, and proving that a sharp palate can make for sharp storytelling.

Part literary salon, part lively conversation, this event gathers writers who have ventured beyond food and drink writing into new creative worlds. With broadcaster and wine expert Olly Smith appearing just days before the publication of his debut murder mystery Death by Noir; food writer turned crime novelist Orlando Murrin; Guardian favourite Felicity Cloake ahead of her debut novel The Underdog; and Catherine Kurtz, who moved from professional chocolate tasting into historical fiction.

Through readings, conversation and plenty of humour, they reflect on why so many food writers are crossing genres, how food and drink help shape character and atmosphere, and what it takes to write beyond expectations.