The truth is out there… The Fan Files reveal all about the ins and outs of Europe’s most prestigious crime festival from those who are really in the know – the fans. Like Vegas, what happens at the Theakstons Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival, stays at the Theakstons Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival… until now.
We’ve devised our own X-Files delving into what really goes on in the hotel bar! Find out the best way to approach your favourite author, and check out the top survival tips from Harrogate’s hardcore veterans.
The Fan File – Jayne Doherty
Jane Doherty moderates the web forums of Mark Billingham and John Connolly
Name: Jayne Doherty
Age: 39
Occupation: Discussion forum moderator
Number of Festivals attended: 4
Favourite author: John Connolly and Mark Billingham
Favourite book: Wuthering Heights – Emily Bronte
Best Festival event: Harrogate!
The Fan File – Betty Duffy
Name: Betty Duffy
Age: 55
Occupation: Document Controller
Number of Festivals attended: 5
Favourite author: That is a real toughy, it depends on the day, anyone and everyone from Dennis Lehane to Mark Billingham, Val McDermid, Kevin Wignall, Ann Cleeves, – today: Harlen Coben.
Favourite book: I absolutely loved Mark Billingham’s Sleepy Head, such an unusual subject and so well done.
Best Festival event: From year to year the events change more or less, I absolutely love the interview between Mark Lawson and the main guest – I enjoy Mark’s interview style.
The Fan File – Michelle Duffy
Name: Michelle Duffy.
Age: 29
Occupation: Factory Worker
Number of Festivals attended: 3
Favourite author: Kevin Wignall
Favourite book: SleepyHead, Mark Billingham
Best festival event: The ‘New Blood’ panels are usually really good and the debate panels such as research vs. none etc…
The Fan File – Kevin Jeeps
Name: Kevin Jeeps
Age: 50
Occupation: Strategic Planning Officer
Number of Festivals attended: Two (2007 & 2008)
Favourite author: Mark Billingham
Favourite book: Dead Simple – Peter James
Best Festival event: Jeffrey Deaver/Tess Gerritsen from last year – it’s impossible to separate them, as they were both fantastic in different ways.
Fan File – Ruth Wade
Name: Ruth Wade
Age: 51
Occupation: Writer
Number of Festivals attended: 5
Favourite author: Val McDermid
Favourite book: The Grave Tattoo
Best Festival event: All those that made me laugh until I nearly wet myself.
