It was quite the moment to see Kate pick up a finished copy of new new book for the first time.  Elegantly interviewed by Lee Randall, she gave the audience great, practical insights into her process and storytelling.  Her work takes inspiration from the powerful (usually unheard) voices of women from the past.

Kate’s publishing journey is a remarkable one – from writing The Maiden (her first novel) in lockdown, it has been a seemingly perfect progression from agent, to publisher, to bestselling author.  Her advice to anyone thinking of writing – give yourself permission.

They said I would swing for the crime, and I did . . .

1724. In a tavern just outside Edinburgh, Maggie Dickson’s family drown their sorrows, mourning her death yet relieved she is gone. Shame haunts them. Hanged for the murder of her newborn child, passers-by avert their eyes from her cheap coffin on its rickety cart. But as her family pray her soul rests in peace, a figure appears at the door.

It is Maggie. She is alive. Bruised and dazed, Maggie has little time for her family’s questions. All that matters to her is answering this one: will they hang her twice?

‘Kate Foster can pluck a dark story from the depths of history and bring it to vivid life before your eyes. The Mourning Necklace is her best yet…it is moving and masterful, a visceral treat that transports you to 18th-century Scotland. A strong contender for my book of the year.’ – Janice Hallett, bestselling author of The Appeal.

We have a few signed copies at the shop – please contact us if you would like one put aside (while stocks last).  Alternatively, you can buy online through our partner bookshop.org – click this link.

This event is was held at the Mainstreet Trading Company in the barn and can only be accessed by stairs. Please read our accessibility guide for more information.