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Miss Havisham and Mrs Dickens are brought centre stage as authors Elle Machray (Remember, Remember) and Emily Howes (The Painters Daughters) discuss with Nikki Jones (The Bookish Mindset) about twisting Dickens and retelling these women's stories. Perfect for audiences who love Dickens work, those just discovering it and anyone who loves a great retelling.
Nikki is a book blogger and avid bookworm who focuses on amplifying diverse voices through her blog and bookstagram, The Bookish Mindset. She's hosted panels at Portsmouth Comic-Con, been a shortlist judge for The Diverse Book Awards and still fangirls over meeting authors. She also has an online reading community, is a huge supporter of indie bookshops and a great lover of libraries.
Emily Howes is a writer living in East London. Her debut novel, THE PAINTER?S DAUGHTERS, won the 2022 Mslexia Novel Prize judged by Dame Hilary Mantel, and was published by Phoenix in 2024. It was one of The Times? Top Ten Historical Fiction Books of 2024, one of the Telegraph?s Best Novels of 2024, and was a number one Kindle bestseller across all genres. Her second novel, MRS DICKENS, will be published by Phoenix in June 2026. Emily also has a Masters in Existential Psychotherapy and works in private practice in London.
Elle Machray grew up in Birmingham to Caribbean and Scottish parents.
She is an Observer Top 10 Debut Novelist, winner of the Somewhere: For Us Culture Award and was featured on The List's Top 100 influential people.
Elle writes stories featuring rebellious women with hopeful hearts. Her debut novel, Remember, Remember which reimagined the gunpowder plot as an attempt to overthrow the British Empire, was longlisted for the Mslexia Novel Prize, judged by Dame Hilary Mantel. It was also shortlisted for Scotland's National Book Award. Elle?s second book, Havisham, reimagines Dickens? infamous jilted bride in a tale of romance and revenge.
When she?s not writing, you can find Elle exploring iconic literary locations all over Europe, or rambling around forests closer to home with her dog, Bruce.
Portsmouth Guildhall stands as a majestic centrepiece within the city's cultural tapestry, a significant Victorian landmark that consistently draws diverse audiences. It functions as a prominent hub for gatherings, hosting a broad spectrum of performances and public events, solidifying its place as a key national asset in the south of England.
Inside, the grandeur of its Victorian architecture is immediately apparent, with high ceilings and ornate detailing that catch the light, creating a sense of occasion. The smooth, cool touch of polished balustrades contrasts with the rich textures of the seating, establishing an atmosphere that is both imposing and inviting for attendees.
Practical considerations are well-addressed, ensuring a comfortable experience for all visitors. The venue provides excellent accessibility with wheelchair-friendly parking, entrances, restrooms, and seating options. Furthermore, ample parking solutions, including both free and paid lots, along with street parking, simplify arrival and departure.
Throughout the year, the Guildhall’s calendar is vibrant, featuring everything from significant musical concerts and engaging comedy performances to thought-provoking exhibitions and elaborate private events. It remains a dynamic space, continually offering compelling reasons for both locals and those travelling to the city to experience its offerings.
Guildhall Square,
Portsmouth,
Hampshire,
England,
PO1 2AB.
Sorry, This Event is in the past!
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