Save the Date: Spike Island Literary Festival 2024
We are thrilled to announce the much-anticipated return of the Spike Island Literary Festival for its third year, taking place from Friday 23rd to Sunday 25th August 2024. Mark your calendars for a weekend immersed in the world of crime writing, set against the backdrop of Spike Island’s unique and storied past.
Spike Island, with its dark history of four prisons over 400 years, provides the perfect setting for literary enthusiasts to gather, explore, and be inspired. Whether you’re a book lover or a budding writer, this festival offers something for everyone.
What to Expect:
● Author-Led Panel Discussions: Engage with your favourite crime writers and delve into the minds behind the books. Discover what inspires their gripping tales and learn about their creative processes.
● Readings from World-Class Writers: Experience the thrill of hearing renowned authors recite their most famous works in the island’s unique locations, enhancing the chilling ambiance of their stories.
● Pathways to Publishing: Take your first steps towards becoming a published author. Meet with a renowned literary agent and get invaluable insights into the publishing industry.
Full Programme Details and Tickets
Stay tuned for the full programme details, which will be released very soon. Tickets will also be on sale shortly, so make sure to secure your spot at this must-attend event for literary enthusiasts.
Join us for a weekend of literary exploration and inspiration at the Spike Island Literary Festival 2024. For updates and more information, keep an eye on our website and social media channels.
Silent Witness, a compelling panel event, will see acclaimed authors Sinéad Crowley, Andrea Carter and Gill Perdue discuss the intricacies of their craft, exploring themes of suspense, crime and the human psyche. Moderated by Amy Jordan, this event promises to offer unique perspectives and fascinating discussions from some of the genre’s most talented writers. Delve into the minds of these brilliant writers as they explore the nuances of crafting suspense and the intricacies of their mysterious characters.
The Ten-Minute Hook – Michelle Teahan, Alice Bell, Tadhg Coakley & John Crotty moderated by Catherine Kirwan
Prior to the main panel event, Catherine Kirwan will be joined by authors Michelle Teahan, Alice Bell, Tadhg Coakley and John Crotty for The Ten Minute Hook. The first ten pages of a novel are the most important of the story and here, each author will discuss the art of intrigue and how they capture the reader’s attention in those all important ten minutes.
Alice Bell
Though Alice Bell grew up in the South West of England, she now lives in Cobh where, in addition to novel writing, she also works as deputy editor of Rock Paper Shotgun, a popular and respected PC Gaming website. In 2019 she was named one of the 100 most influential women in the UK games industry. Her debut novel, Grave Expectations was published in May 2023 followed by Displeasure Island in May 2024.
Andrea Carter
Andrea Carter is the author of The Inishowen Mysteries. She graduated in Law from Trinity College, Dublin, before qualifying as a solicitor and moving to the Inishowen peninsula in Co. Donegal. Having practised law for nearly twenty years, more recently as a barrister, she now writes full time. Her six books are in development for television and her short story The Lamb was shortlisted for the Irish Book Awards in 2019. Death Writes is her sixth novel. The Sunday Times has said ‘Carter excels in re-creating the cloistered, gossipy confines of a small Irish village…the Inishowen peninsula community where everybody knows everybody else’s business is a fine stand-in for the mannered drawing-room society of a Christie mystery.’
Tadhg Coakley
Tadhg Coakley is from Mallow and lives in Cork city. His debut novel The First Sunday in September (2018) was shortlisted for the Mercier Press Fiction prize. Whatever It Takes was chosen as the 2020 Cork, One City One Book. Everything (a sports autobiography, which he co-wrote with its subject, Denis Coughlan) was picked as one of the 2020 sports books of the year in The Sunday Times, The Irish Examiner and The Irish Times. The Game: A Journey into the Heart of Sport (2022) was described by Donal Ryan as a ‘towering work’. His latest thriller Dark Streets is out in June 24. Tadhg’s short stories, articles and essays have been widely published.
John Crotty
John Crotty is author of non-fiction work ‘Spike Island’ and a graduate of Swansea University. Hailing from Cappoquin, County Waterford, John grew up steeped in the storytelling of the Deise. ‘I look back now and see a strong storytelling tradition. The TV was rarely on, just for the Late Late Show, G.A.A. and the Angelus. Evenings were spent by the fire. The silence was punctured by splintering turf and coal, the ticking of a clock. The banshee, Petticoat Loose, they were regular visitors’. John has travelled over 60 countries and many world wonders with further titles on Irish history commenced.
Sinéad Crowley
Sinéad Crowley is the best selling author of the DS Claire Boyle series of crime novels, all three of which were nominated for Irish Book Awards. Her most recent novel, the historical mystery The Belladonna Maze was an Irish Times bestseller and her next book, another historical mystery entitled ‘A Maid on Fifth Avenue’ will be published by Aria in September 2024. Sinéad worked as a journalist for over three decades and was for sixteen year the Arts and Media correspondent with the Irish national broadcaster RTE. In 2023 she left journalism and now works as Director of Media Development with the Irish media regulator, Coimisiún na Meán.
Amy Jordan
Amy Jordan lives by the sea with her husband and young children in Cork, Ireland. Her police procedural thriller, The Dark Hours, will be published with HQ HarperCollins UK, Mira HarperCollins US, and Piper Verlag in early 2025. Previously writing as Amy Cronin, she released three thrillers with Irish publisher Poolbeg Press. Amy is a former civil servant and tutor at MTU, who now writes full time.
Catherine Kirwan
Catherine Kirwan grew up on a farm in the parish of Fews, County Waterford. She studied law at UCC and lives in Cork where she works as a solicitor. Her first novel, Darkest Truth, was chosen as Cork’s One City One Book by Cork City Libraries in 2019. Her second book, Cruel Deeds, and her third, ‘A Lesson in Malice’, a murder mystery set in UCC, are both out now.
Gill Perdue
Gill Perdue is the author of bestselling Shaw and Darmody crime series. If I Tell (previously published as The Interview) was nominated for Crime Novel of the Year in the An Post Book Awards 2022. When They See Me published in June 2023 to rave reviews. It’s described as ‘a thrilling read,’ (The Independent) She also writes for children. Her first children’s novel, Adam’s Starling, won a Bisto Award (the Eilís Dillon Memorial) for that year. A third Shaw and Darmody is to be published by Penguin in 2025, and a standalone thriller in 2026.
Michelle Teahan
Michelle Teahan is a qualified Medical Scientist but her passion has always been writing stories. She loves creating strong female characters, putting them in the worst types of situations and seeing how they react. She lives in County Cork, Ireland with her husband, two young daughters and a giant ginger cat. Her debut novel Go Seek has been long listed for the John Creasey (New Blood) Dagger and her second novel Knock Knock is out June 2024.
At Spike Island, we’re celebrating our 86th birthday this year with our annual Family Fun Evening and Fireworks Display, commemorating the historic handover of Spike Island from Britain to Ireland in 1938. In honour of this momentous occasion, we’ll be celebrating our Independence Day with a spectacular fireworks display, musical performances and family fare on Saturday 13th July.
At this special Independence Day celebration, visitors will enjoy captivating entertainment and an abundance of family-friendly activities while immersing themselves in the island’s rich history.
Attendees can look forward to pop-up musical performances, face painters, and much more, ensuring a truly memorable experience for guests of all ages.
Visitors will board the ferry across the world’s second-largest natural harbour, enjoy a guided tour on arrival, explore the fort’s amazing museums and exhibitions and walk the amazing island nature trails. On this special night, there will also be family entertainment, children’s activities, musical performances, face painters and more.
As the night unfolds, the highlight of the event will be a spectacular fireworks display over Cork Harbour. A total of 1300 fireworks will illuminate the sky, symbolising the inmates who tragically lost their lives during Spike Island’s history as a prison in what promises to be a special tribute and a poignant reminder of the island’s past.
To facilitate the smooth flow of the event, boats will begin departing from 5.15pm. Early arrivals will have ample time to enjoy the island’s attractions and will also be among the first to depart the island after the event concludes. Return boats will commence at 10.30pm, departing every 10 minutes.
Visitors are advised to check their ticket times for the return boat, with the last departure scheduled for approximately 11.45pm. Attendance for this special celebration is expected to be high, and therefore, advance online booking is essential.
To mark the 220th anniversary of the laying of the foundation stone for Fort Westmoreland, Spike Island is hosting an exhibition entitled ‘Entwined History: Revealing Spike Island’s Forts’.
The new exhibition features the architectural plans from The National Archives that depict the construction and fortification of the fortress. Fort Westmoreland (now known as Fort Mitchel) stands as the third and final fortification constructed on the island.
The plans on display show the path from concept to reality as architects, engineers, craftsmen and masons worked together to create a fortress ready to withstand any attack.
Panels explaining the historical events that took place between 1776-1815 and Spike Island’s startegic importance during this period are also part of this exhibition.
We feature General Charles Vallancey, a man behind the design of Fort Westmoreland I. The first edition of his book, ‘A Vindication of the Ancient History of Ireland’ published in 1786 is on display along with other artefacts related to the early stages of the fort and the Royal Artillery.
It’s worth noting that the only known photograph depicting convicts labouring during the constuction of the bastions at Spike Island, can be seen for the first time.
Exhibition date: June—September 2024
Location: Mitchel Hall, Spike Island
Law & Disorder – Imran Mahmood in conversation with Neil Lancaster
Price per ticket: € Boat in: 5pm – Return: 8pm
The 2024 Spike Island Literary Festival will be officially launched by much-loved Cork author Cónal Creedon.
The festival commences with Law and Disorder, an engaging conversation between acclaimed authors Imran Mahmood and Neil Lancaster. Delve into the intricacies of crime writing with these two masters of the genre as they discuss their inspirations and how their backgrounds in law and justice impact their storytelling. This event promises to offer unique insights into the world of crime fiction and the minds behind some of today’s most gripping narratives. Don’t miss the chance to witness a captivating conversation between two leading voices in contemporary literature.
24 AUGUST | SATURDAY
Femme Fatale – Dr Marie Cassidy, Jo Spain & Arlene Hunt moderated by Michelle Dunne
Price per ticket: € Boat in: 4pm – Return: 8pm
Join us for Femme Fatale, an intriguing panel event at the Spike Island Literary Festival featuring Dr Marie Cassidy, former State Pathologist and author, Jo Spain, renowned author and screenwriter, and acclaimed Irish crime novelist, Arlene Hunt. Moderated by author Michelle Dunne, this event will delve into the dark and fascinating world of crime writing as these leading female voices explore the art of suspense, forensic detail and creating compelling narratives.
Don’t miss the chance to engage with these distinguished authors and uncover the mysteries behind their thrilling novels.
Meet the Agent
Looking for insider tips on getting your book published? In a rare opportunity, budding writers can meet with Nicky Lovick – Literary Agent with WGM Atlantic Talent & Literary Group – to receive feedback and gain tips on how to make their work stand out from the crowd. You will be required to submit a synopsis and the first three chapters of your work following your booking. In return you will get personalised feedback on the day as well as some written notes.
25 AUGUST | SUNDAY
Silent Witness – Sinéad Crowley, Andrea Carter & Gill Perdue moderated by Amy Jordan
Price per ticket: € Boat in: 12pm – Return: 3pm
Silent Witness, a compelling panel event, will see acclaimed authors Sinéad Crowley, Andrea Carter and Gill Perdue discuss the intricacies of their craft, exploring themes of suspense, crime and the human psyche. Moderated by Amy Jordan, this event promises to offer unique perspectives and fascinating discussions from some of the genre’s most talented writers. Delve into the minds of these brilliant writers as they explore the nuances of crafting suspense and the intricacies of their mysterious characters.
The Ten-Minute Hook – Michelle Teehan, Alice Bell & Tadhg Coakley moderated by Catherine Kirwan
Prior to the main panel event, Catherine Kirwan will be joined by authors Michelle Teehan, Alice Bell and Tadhg Coakley for The Ten Minute Hook. The first ten pages of a novel are the most important of the story and here, each author will discuss the art of intrigue and how they capture the reader’s attention in those all important ten minutes.
Looking for insider tips on getting your book published? In a rare opportunity, budding writers can meet with Nicky Lovick – Literary Agent with WGM Atlantic Talent & Literary Group – to receive feedback and gain tips on how to make their work stand out from the crowd. You will be required to submit a synopsis and the first three chapters of your work following your booking. In return, you will get personalised feedback on the day as well as some written notes.
Nicky Lovick
Nicky Lovick is a literary agent at WGM Atlantic Talent & Literary agency in London. She’s worked an as editor in-house for big and small publishers for almost a decade and is currently working for Penguin, Random House, Transworld, BBC Books, Orion, John Blake, Blink, Bonnier, Quercus, Profile and Atlantic among others.
Law & Disorder – Imran Mahmood in conversation with Neil Lancaster
Price per ticket: €26.95 Boat in: 5pm – Return: 8pm
The 2024 Spike Island Literary Festival will be officially launched by much-loved Cork author Cónal Creedon.
The festival commences with Law and Disorder, an engaging conversation between acclaimed authors Imran Mahmood and Neil Lancaster. Delve into the intricacies of crime writing with these two masters of the genre as they discuss their inspirations and how their backgrounds in law and justice impact their storytelling. This event promises to offer unique insights into the world of crime fiction and the minds behind some of today’s most gripping narratives. Don’t miss the chance to witness a captivating conversation between two leading voices in contemporary literature.
Cónal Creedon
Cónal Creedon is an award winning novelist, playwright and documentary filmmaker. Cónal’s recently published book, Art Imitating Life Imitating Death, was presented at the centre of Irish Studies at Zurich University, James Joyce Federation in 2020. It was subsequently published by Florence University Press and has since picked up Gold at the IP Book Awards in the European Non-Fiction Category and Silver at the IP Book Awards in the Global reference Non-Fiction Category.
Neil Lancaster
Neil Lancaster is the No. 1 digital bestselling author of both the Tom Novak and Max Craigie series. His first Craigie novel, Dead Man’s Grave, was longlisted for the 2021 McIlvanney Prize for Best Scottish Crime Book of the Year. The second Craigie novel, The Blood Tide, topped several ebook and audio charts. It was also longlisted for the 2022 McIlvanney Prize and shortlisted for Best New Series at the Dead Good Reader Awards. Neil’s authentic crime writing style stems from his police background. He served as a military policeman and worked for the Metropolitan Police as a detective, investigating serious crimes in the capital and beyond. As a covert policing specialist, he used all manner of techniques to investigate and disrupt major crime and criminals. He now lives in the Scottish Highlands, writes crime and thriller novels and works as a broadcaster and commentator on true crime documentaries. He is an expert commentator on a number of true crime TV series.
Imran Mahmood
Imran Mahmood is a practising criminal barrister in England and Wales. His debut novel You Don’t Know Me was chosen by Simon Mayo as a BBC Radio 2 Book Club Choice for 2017 and longlisted for the Theakston Crime Novel of the Year, the CWA Gold Dagger Award, and the Glass Bell Award and was made into a hugely successful BBC1 adaptation in association with Netflix, reaching no.3 in the World and in the UK received a BAFTA nomination for best actor. His second novel I Know What I Saw was chosen as a Sunday Times crime novel of the month and reached no. 2 on the Audible charts. It was also long-listed for both the CWA Gold Dagger Award and Theakstons Crime Novel of the year. His third novel ALL I SAID WAS TRUE was also long-listed for the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year 2023 and his fourth novel Finding Sophie was released in March 2024. Imran was born and raised in Liverpool but now lives in London with his wife and 2 daughters.
Join us for Femme Fatale, an intriguing panel event at the Spike Island Literary Festival featuring Dr Marie Cassidy, former State Pathologist and author, Jo Spain, renowned author and screenwriter, and acclaimed Irish crime novelist, Arlene Hunt. Moderated by author Michelle Dunne, this event will delve into the dark and fascinating world of crime writing as these leading female voices explore the art of suspense, forensic detail and creating compelling narratives.
Don’t miss the chance to engage with these distinguished authors and uncover the mysteries behind their thrilling novels.
Dr Marie Cassidy
During her 15-year career as Ireland’s State Pathologist, Marie Cassidy became known to the Irish public as a trusted figure whose expertise helped to solve murders and clarify unexplained deaths. In over thirty years of practice, she performed thousands of postmortems and dealt with hundreds of murders. She has witnessed the burgeoning role of forensic science and the impact that has had on death investigation and the expectations of the general public, while embracing new technology and welcoming the input of experts in the other sciences. She retired at the end of 2018 to spend more time on the other passions in her life, her family and writing. Marie’s number one bestselling memoir Beyond the Tape was published in 2020. Body of Truth is her first novel.
Michelle Dunne
Michelle Dunne is a crime and thriller writer from Cork whose new psychological thriller, The Hotel Maid will be published in August 24. Her best-selling psychological thriller, The Good Girl published to rave reviews in March 24 and is described as “an outstanding serial killer thriller.” Michelle also wrote While Nobody is Watching and The Invisible, a series of thrillers following former soldier and UN Peacekeeper Lindsey Ryan as she tries to adapt to her new life in the clutches of PTSD. The series is currently in development for television and is inspired by Michelle’s own experiences as an infantry soldier and United Nations Peacekeeper. Michelle is organiser/programmer of the Spike Island Literary Festival – a crime-themed festival set in Ireland’s very own Alcatraz!
Arlene Hunt
Arlene Hunt is an Irish author, film and book reviewer . She has written fifteen novels, the latest of which, While She Sleeps, was published by Hachette in August 2023 and she is currently working on new crime fiction book. A long distance runner, when not writing Arlene can usually be found half way up a mountain with two German Shepherds for company.
Jo Spain
Jo Spain is the author of thirteen top-ten Irish and international best-sellers, including the Tom Reynolds detective series. A full-time screenwriter, Jo co-writes and showruns Harry Wild (starring Jane Seymour) with David Logan. She has also written for Sanditon, the ITV/PBS Jane Austen drama and her co-written show The Boy Who Never Was (Subotica/RTÉ/France TV) airs on RTÉ autumn 2024. Jo’s new series Mix Tape (Subotica/Aquarias/Binge) films summer 2024. Jo and her co-writer David Logan are also working on the adaptation of several of her thriller books with production companies including Archery and Yellow Films.
Following on from the success of our inaugural event in 2022, the Spike Island Literary Festival makes a much-anticipated return from Friday 18th to Sunday 20th August 2023.
Dedicated to the popular theme of crime writing, the festival takes place on a unique island location with a dark history of four prisons over 400 years – the perfect setting for literary enthusiasts from book lovers to budding writers.
Engage with your favourite authors and discover what inspires them through author-led panel discussions, experience pop-up readings as some world-class writers recite their most famous works in unique locations, enjoy special performances or take the first steps to getting your own work published by meeting with a renowned literary agent.
This year’s programme features a stellar line-up of renowned authors such as Alice Bell, Sam Blake, Amanda Cassidy, Tadhg Coakley, Cónal Creedon, Amy Cronin, Catherine Ryan Howard, Arlene Hunt, Catherine Kirwin, Andrea Mara, Michelle McDonagh, Kitty Murphy.
There are many event formats to choose from during the festival: Panel Interviews – In a series of panel discussions led by author Michelle Dunne, a number of Ireland and the UK’s foremost thriller writers will reveal their writing methods, inspirations and the process of developing unforgettable characters. Author readings – Throughout the festival, pop-up readings by some of your favourite authors will take place in unique locations around the island, from dark tunnels to haunting prison cells. Meet the Agent – Submit the first three chapters of your next work in advance and receive feedback and advice from the industry insiders.
In addition, visitors will enjoy a short guided tour on arrival with a focus on the darker tales from Spike Island’s storied past. Join us this August and immerse yourself in a world of suspense, mystery and intrigue as some of Ireland and the UK’s foremost authors descend on our historic island.
Sponsored by Cork County Council, Bella Vista Hotel, Commodore Hotel, Fota Island Resort, Titanic Bar and Grill, Trigon Hotels.
Programme of Events
Photo credit: Dorota Gubbins
18 AUGUST | FRIDAY AFTERNOON
Launch of Spike Island Literary Festival
Price per ticket: €26
Boat in: 1:30pm – Return: 4:30pm
Storytelling, music and song intertwine as two much-loved Cork writers – author Cónal Creedon and singer-songwriter John Spillane – come together for a very special performance to launch the 2023 Spike Island Literary Festival on Friday 18th August.
The longtime friends and collaborators have made significant contributions to the artistic and cultural heritage of Cork and their renowned works including Follow Your Nose and Princes Street resonates with audiences both locally and beyond.
18 AUGUST | FRIDAY EVENING
“A Mind for Murder” (Panel)
Price per ticket: €26
Boat in: 5pm – Return: 8pm
Cork author Michelle Dunne will be joined by a panel of some of Ireland’s foremost thriller writers on Friday evening. Gain unique insights into what inspires authors Kitty Murphy, Arlene Hunt and Amy Cronin in what promises to be an intimate and conversational event which delves into the minds and writing methods of these acclaimed authors.
On arrival, visitors will enjoy a short guided tour with one of Spike Island’s expert storytellers followed by time to enjoy refreshments in the cafe prior to the event.
Photo credit: Dorota Gubbins
19 AUGUST | SATURDAY AFTERNOON
“Fear Factor” (Panel)
Price per ticket: €26
Boat in: 12:30pm – Return: 4pm
Crime writers Amanda Cassidy, Andrea Mara and Alice Bell join forces in a panel discussion with Cork author Michelle Dunne to share insights into what inspired their most famous works.
On arrival, visitors will enjoy a short guided tour to the fort with one of Spike Island’s expert storytellers.
Pop Up Readings
Throughout the day, authors such as Tadhg Coakley, Michelle McDonagh, Amy Cronin and Tom O’Neill will perform pop up readings in unique locations throughout the island. Hear segments from your favourite novels directly from the authors themselves in dark tunnels, eerie prison cells and more.
Photo credit: Dorota Gubbins
19 AUGUST | SATURDAY Evening
“Thriller Killer” (Panel)
Price per ticket: €26
Boat in: 5pm – Return: 7:30pm
Two of Ireland’s best-selling crime writers Catherine Ryan Howard and Sam Blake discuss the makings of a successful thriller and what inspired their own novels in a thought-provoking, intimate discussion.
On arrival, visitors will enjoy a short guided tour with one of Spike Island’s expert storytellers followed by time to enjoy refreshments in the cafe prior to the event.
20 AUGUST | SUNDAY AFTERNOON
“Murder by the Book” (Panel)
Price per ticket: €26
Boat in: 12:30pm – Return: 4pm
Following the release of her debut novel, Michelle McDonagh is joined by seasoned authors Catherine Kirwan and Tadhg Coakley in what promises to be a fascinating conversation and discussion with Cork author Michelle Dunne.
On arrival, visitors will enjoy a short guided tour to the fort with one of Spike Island’s expert storytellers.
Reading event – Kitty Murphy & Queen Mia Gold
Kitty Murphy, acclaimed author of the Dublin Drag Mystery Series, will perform a reading of one of her intriguing novels followed by a very special performance by one of Cork’s best-known drag queens, Portuguese-born Queen Mia Gold.
Cónal Creedon Photo credit: Dorota Gubbins
Pop Up Readings
Authors Alice Bell and Cónal Creedon will perform readings of their best-selling novels in unique locations on our historic island.
Meet the Agent Event
Looking for insider tips on getting your book published? In a rare opportunity, budding writers can meet with Nicky Lovick – Literary Agent with WGM Atlantic Talent & Literary Group on Sunday 20 August – to receive feedback and gain tips on how to make their work stand out from the crowd. Those interested in booking tickets for this event are invited to submit a synopsis and the first three chapters of their work on or before the 18th July to nicky.lovick@wgmatlanticgroup.com with “Spike Island Festival” in the subject line. In return they will get personalised feedback on the day as well as some written notes.
Though Alice Bell grew up in the South West of England, she now lives in Cobh where, in addition to novel writing, she also works as deputy editor of Rock Paper Shotgun, a popular and respected PC Gaming website. In 2019 she was named one of the 100 most influential women in the UK games industry. Grave Expectations is her debut novel and was published in May 2023.
Sam Blake
Sam Blake is the No 1 bestselling author of the Cat Connolly Garda police trilogy (Bonnier), and thriller standalones Keep Your Eyes on Me and The Dark Room and Remember My Name (Corvus Books). Across her books she has been an Irish Times No 1 for 7 weeks, an Eason No 1 bestseller for 10 weeks, in the Irish top ten for 28 weeks and has outsold Graham Norton (briefly!) Both her first novel Little Bones and The Dark Room were shortlisted for Irish Crime Novel of the Year (2016 & 2021).
Originally from St. Albans in Hertfordshire, Sam has now lived at the foot of the Wicklow Mountains in Ireland for more years than she lived in the UK. www.samblakebooks.com
Amanda Cassidy
Amanda Cassidy is a freelance journalist, commissioning editor and former Sky News reporter. Shortlisted for the Irish Journalist of the Year Awards, and more recently the Headline Media writing awards, her features have clocked up over seven million readers. She’s a frequent contributor to national radio, print and television and holds a BA in French and Italian from Trinity College Dublin. When she’s not on a plane, you’ll find her in her cottage in Dublin where she lives with her husband and three young children. Breaking is Amanda’s first novel. “The Returned”, Amanda’s second novel will be published in August.
Tadhg Coakley
Tadhg Coakley is from Mallow and lives in Cork city. His debut novel The First Sunday in September (2018) was shortlisted for the Mercier Press Fiction prize. Whatever It Takes was chosen as the 2020 Cork, One City One Book. Everything (a sports autobiography, which he co-wrote with its subject, Denis Coughlan) was picked as one of the 2020 sports books of the year in The Sunday Times, The Irish Examiner and The Irish Times. The Game: A Journey into the Heart of Sport (2022) was described by Donal Ryan as a ‘towering work’. Tadhg’s short stories, articles and essays have been widely published.
Cónal Creedon is an award winning novelist, playwright and documentary filmmaker.
Cónal’s recently published book, Art Imitating Life Imitating Death, was presented at the centre of Irish Studies at Zurich University, James Joyce Federation in 2020. It was subsequently published by Florence University Press. His collection of Award winning short stories Pancho and Lefty Ride Again (2021) has been Awarded One City One Book Award 2020. It holds the record of being the most borrowed adult fiction book at Cork City Libraries 2022.
His novel, Begotten Not Made (2018), has achieved literary award recognition: Winner of the Eric Hoffer Award USA 2020, The Bronze Award New Generation Book Award USA 2020; Finalist in the Montaigne [Most Thought-Provoking Book] Award USA 2020. Finalist The IAN Book of the Year Award 2022, Nominated for the Dublin International Book Award 2020; Book of the Year Irish Examiner; Top Books of the Year – Liveline RTÉ Irish National Radio. www.conalcreedon.com
Amy Cronin
Amy Jordan Cronin is a writer from Cork, Ireland. She lives by the sea with her husband and young children in Cork, Ireland. A former tutor at Munster Technological University, she worked in the Irish civil service for a number of years before pursuing her passion for writing crime fiction. She has published two thrillers, Blinding Lies and Twisted Truth with Poolbeg Press. The Dark Hours will be published by Harper Collins HQ in September 2024.
Michelle Dunne is a writer from Cobh who has used some of her own experiences in the Irish Army and as a UN Peacekeeper to write her debut thriller, the first in the Lindsey Ryan series, While Nobody Is Watching which is currently in development for television. Her follow-up book, The Invisible was published in April 2022.
Michelle’s new thriller “GRACE” will be out in March 2024.
Catherine Ryan Howard is an award-winning, internationally bestselling author from Cork. Her lockdown thriller, 56 Days, was named a thriller of the year by the New York Times and the Washington Post, won the An Post Irish Crime Novel of the Year 2021 and is currently in development as a TV series with Atomic Monster/Amazon Studios. She has been shortlisted for the Mystery Writers of America Edgar Award for Best Novel and the CWA’s John Creasey and Ian Fleming Daggers, and longlisted for the Dublin Literary Award 2023. She is published in 19 languages and a number of her titles have been optioned for screen. Her next thriller, The Trap, will publish in August.
Arlene Hunt is an Irish author, film and book reviewer . She has written fifteen novels, the latest of which, While She Sleeps, was published by Hachette in August 2023 and she is currently working on new crime fiction book. A long distance runner, when not writing Arlene can usually be found half way up a mountain with two German Shepherds for company.
Catherine Kirwan grew up on a farm in the parish of Fews, County Waterford. She studied law at UCC and lives in Cork where she works as a solicitor. Her first novel, Darkest Truth, was chosen as Cork’s One City One Book by Cork City Libraries in 2019. Her current book, Cruel Deeds, is out now from Hachette Ireland.
Andrea Mara is a Sunday Times and Irish Times Top Ten bestselling author, who has been shortlisted for a number of awards, including Irish Crime Novel of the Year at the An Post Book Awards in 2022, 2021 and 2018.
Her novel All Her Fault was Sunday Times Crime Book of the Month, a top ten bestseller in the UK and in Ireland, and a Kindle Top 5 bestseller. It has sold over 100,000 copies and has been optioned for TV.
Hide And Seek, published in 2022, charted in the Irish Times bestseller list for five weeks. Her newest book, No One Saw A Thing,was published by Transworld/ Penguin Random House in May 2023. She lives in Dublin, Ireland, with her husband and three children, and also runs multi-award-winning
parent and lifestyle blog, OfficeMum.ie
Michelle McDonagh
Michelle has over 25 years experience as a journalist. She writes freelance for The Irish Times and a number of other publications. In the course of her career, she’s worked for all of the Irish national and tabloid papers covering news and courts, before switching solely to features and health, mainly for The Irish Times. Her debut novel There’s Something I Have To Tell You was published by Hachette in April 2023.
Tom O’Neill
Tom O’Neill is from Midleton, Co. Cork.
His first book, ‘The Battle of Clonmult’, was published by Nonsuch in 2006.
He co-wrote his second book, ‘The History of the 23 Infantry Battalion FCA, 1959 – 2005, with two fellow officers from the battalion. It was privately published in 2007.
Tom was a member of the team that produced the book, ‘A Great Sacrifice’, the definitive account of the Cork born individuals that lost their lives on military service, during the First World War. The book was published by Echo Publications (Cork) Ltd in 2010.
His book, ‘The Battle of Clonmult’ a revised edition, was published by The History Press in 2019.
His most recent book ‘Spike Island’s Republican Prisoners 1921’ was published by The History Press in 2021.
Tom has been involved on Spike Island since 1989. He worked on Spike with the Irish Prison Service in a managerial role from 1989 – 2010. He was the liaison officer for the Prison Service in the lead up to the handover of the island to Cork County Council in 2010. He joined Cork County Council in 2011 and was very much involved in the planning and development of the island into a tourist attraction. He is in a managerial role on Spike Island since 2011.
Kitty Murphy
Kitty Murphy lives with her husband, Roger, on the very westerly edge of Co. Clare, Ireland. She adores drag in all its forms and crime fiction in all its chilling splendour. Kitty is bi/queer. From a well-spent youth divided equally between the library and the LGBTQ+ scene, it was only a matter of time until both worlds collided in a flurry of fictional sequins.
Death in Heels, the first book in the Dublin Drag Mystery Series was published by Thomas & Mercer in 2022. The sequel, Death in the Dark, was released in 2023.
Queen Mia Gold
The queen of all queens, Mia Gold has gotten wind of the fact that Drag Queens are being bumped off in Kitty Murphy’s Dublin Drag Series (Death in Heels). Now she’s coming to Spike Island to confront the situation and to find out for herself, what exactly is going on and more importantly, what’s going to happen next!
John Spillane
John Spillane is a musician, songwriter, performer, recording artist, storyteller, poet and dreamer. Rooted in people, place and story, his music transports the listener and his live performances captivate audiences around the world.
After his acclaimed release of 100 Snow White Horses in 2021, in October 2022, John will released ‘In Another Light’ a career spanning album recorded live at the Right Here Right Now Festival recorded at Cork Opera House in November 2021.
Following on from the success of our inaugural event in 2022, the Spike Island Literary Festival makes a much-anticipated return from Friday 18th to Sunday 20th August 2023.
Dedicated to the popular theme of crime writing, the festival takes place on a unique island location with a dark history of four prisons over 400 years – the perfect setting for literary enthusiasts from book lovers to budding writers.
Engage with your favourite authors and discover what inspires them through author-led panel discussions, experience pop-up readings as some world-class writers recite their most famous works in unique locations, enjoy special performances or take the first steps to getting your own work published by meeting with a renowned literary agent.
This year’s programme features a stellar line-up of renowned authors such as Alice Bell, Sam Blake, Amanda Cassidy, Tadhg Coakley, Cónal Creedon, Amy Cronin, Catherine Ryan Howard, Arlene Hunt, Catherine Kirwin, Andrea Mara, Michelle McDonagh, Kitty Murphy.
There are many event formats to choose from during the festival: Panel Interviews – In a series of panel discussions led by author Michelle Dunne, a number of Ireland and the UK’s foremost thriller writers will reveal their writing methods, inspirations and the process of developing unforgettable characters. Author readings – Throughout the festival, pop-up readings by some of your favourite authors will take place in unique locations around the island, from dark tunnels to haunting prison cells. Meet the Agent – Submit the first three chapters of your next work in advance and receive feedback and advice from the industry insiders.
In addition, visitors will enjoy a short guided tour on arrival with a focus on the darker tales from Spike Island’s storied past. Join us this August and immerse yourself in a world of suspense, mystery and intrigue as some of Ireland and the UK’s foremost authors descend on our historic island.
Sponsored by Cork County Council, Bella Vista Hotel, Commodore Hotel, Fota Island Resort, Titanic Bar and Grill, Trigon Hotels.
Programme of Events
18 AUGUST | FRIDAY AFTERNOON
Launch of Spike Island Literary Festival
Price per ticket: €26
Boat in: 1:30pm – Return: 4:30pm
Storytelling, music and song intertwine as two much-loved Cork writers – author Cónal Creedon and singer-songwriter John Spillane – come together for a very special performance to launch the 2023 Spike Island Literary Festival on Friday 18th August.
The longtime friends and collaborators have made significant contributions to the artistic and cultural heritage of Cork and their renowned works including Follow Your Nose and Princes Street resonates with audiences both locally and beyond.
18 AUGUST | FRIDAY EVENING
“A Mind for Murder” (Panel)
Price per ticket: €26
Boat in: 5pm – Return: 8pm
Cork author Michelle Dunne will be joined by a panel of some of Ireland’s foremost thriller writers on Friday evening. Gain unique insights into what inspires authors Kitty Murphy, Arlene Hunt and Amy Cronin in what promises to be an intimate and conversational event which delves into the minds and writing methods of these acclaimed authors.
On arrival, visitors will enjoy a short guided tour with one of Spike Island’s expert storytellers followed by time to enjoy refreshments in the cafe prior to the event.
19 AUGUST | SATURDAY AFTERNOON
“Fear Factor” (Panel)
Price per ticket: €26
Boat in: 12:30pm – Return: 4pm
Crime writers Amanda Cassidy, Andrea Mara and Alice Bell join forces in a panel discussion with Cork author Michelle Dunne to share insights into what inspired their most famous works.
On arrival, visitors will enjoy a short guided tour to the fort with one of Spike Island’s expert storytellers.
Pop Up Readings
Throughout the day, authors such as Tadhg Coakley, Michelle McDonagh, Amy Cronin and Tom O’Neill will perform pop up readings in unique locations throughout the island. Hear segments from your favourite novels directly from the authors themselves in dark tunnels, eerie prison cells and more.
To purchase tickets for our reading events, please click here to book one of our regular sailings.
19 AUGUST | SATURDAY Evening
“Thriller Killer” (Panel)
Price per ticket: €26
Boat in: 5pm – Return: 7:30pm
Two of Ireland’s best-selling crime writers Catherine Ryan Howard and Sam Blake discuss the makings of a successful thriller and what inspired their own novels in a thought-provoking, intimate discussion.
On arrival, visitors will enjoy a short guided tour with one of Spike Island’s expert storytellers followed by time to enjoy refreshments in the cafe prior to the event.
20 AUGUST | SUNDAY AFTERNOON
“Murder by the Book” (Panel)
Price per ticket: €26
Boat in: 12:30pm – Return: 4pm
Following the release of her debut novel, Michelle McDonagh is joined by seasoned authors Catherine Kirwan and Tadhg Coakley in what promises to be a fascinating conversation and discussion with Cork author Michelle Dunne.
On arrival, visitors will enjoy a short guided tour to the fort with one of Spike Island’s expert storytellers.
Reading event – Kitty Murphy & Queen Mia Gold
Kitty Murphy, acclaimed author of the Dublin Drag Mystery Series, will perform a reading of one of her intriguing novels followed by a very special performance by one of Cork’s best-known drag queens, Portuguese-born Queen Mia Gold.
Pop Up Readings
Authors Alice Bell and Cónal Creedon will perform readings of their best-selling novels in unique locations on our historic island.
To purchase tickets for our reading events, please click here to book one of our regular sailings.
Meet the Agent Event
Looking for insider tips on getting your book published? In a rare opportunity, budding writers can meet with Nicky Lovick – Literary Agent with WGM Atlantic Talent & Literary Group on Sunday 20 August – to receive feedback and gain tips on how to make their work stand out from the crowd. Those interested in booking tickets for this event are invited to submit a synopsis and the first three chapters of their work on or before the 18th July to nicky.lovick@wgmatlanticgroup.com with “Spike Island Festival” in the subject line. In return they will get personalised feedback on the day as well as some written notes.
Though Alice Bell grew up in the South West of England, she now lives in Cobh where, in addition to novel writing, she also works as deputy editor of Rock Paper Shotgun, a popular and respected PC Gaming website. In 2019 she was named one of the 100 most influential women in the UK games industry. Grave Expectations is her debut novel and was published in May 2023.
Sam Blake
Sam Blake is the No 1 bestselling author of the Cat Connolly Garda police trilogy (Bonnier), and thriller standalones Keep Your Eyes on Me and The Dark Room and Remember My Name (Corvus Books). Across her books she has been an Irish Times No 1 for 7 weeks, an Eason No 1 bestseller for 10 weeks, in the Irish top ten for 28 weeks and has outsold Graham Norton (briefly!) Both her first novel Little Bones and The Dark Room were shortlisted for Irish Crime Novel of the Year (2016 & 2021).
Originally from St. Albans in Hertfordshire, Sam has now lived at the foot of the Wicklow Mountains in Ireland for more years than she lived in the UK. www.samblakebooks.com
Amanda Cassidy
Amanda Cassidy is a freelance journalist, commissioning editor and former Sky News reporter. Shortlisted for the Irish Journalist of the Year Awards, and more recently the Headline Media writing awards, her features have clocked up over seven million readers. She’s a frequent contributor to national radio, print and television and holds a BA in French and Italian from Trinity College Dublin. When she’s not on a plane, you’ll find her in her cottage in Dublin where she lives with her husband and three young children. Breaking is Amanda’s first novel. “The Returned”, Amanda’s second novel will be published in August.
Tadhg Coakley
Tadhg Coakley is from Mallow and lives in Cork city. His debut novel The First Sunday in September (2018) was shortlisted for the Mercier Press Fiction prize. Whatever It Takes was chosen as the 2020 Cork, One City One Book. Everything (a sports autobiography, which he co-wrote with its subject, Denis Coughlan) was picked as one of the 2020 sports books of the year in The Sunday Times, The Irish Examiner and The Irish Times. The Game: A Journey into the Heart of Sport (2022) was described by Donal Ryan as a ‘towering work’. Tadhg’s short stories, articles and essays have been widely published.
Cónal Creedon is an award winning novelist, playwright and documentary filmmaker.
Cónal’s recently published book, Art Imitating Life Imitating Death, was presented at the centre of Irish Studies at Zurich University, James Joyce Federation in 2020. It was subsequently published by Florence University Press. His collection of Award winning short stories Pancho and Lefty Ride Again (2021) has been Awarded One City One Book Award 2020. It holds the record of being the most borrowed adult fiction book at Cork City Libraries 2022.
His novel, Begotten Not Made (2018), has achieved literary award recognition: Winner of the Eric Hoffer Award USA 2020, The Bronze Award New Generation Book Award USA 2020; Finalist in the Montaigne [Most Thought-Provoking Book] Award USA 2020. Finalist The IAN Book of the Year Award 2022, Nominated for the Dublin International Book Award 2020; Book of the Year Irish Examiner; Top Books of the Year – Liveline RTÉ Irish National Radio. www.conalcreedon.com
Amy Cronin
Amy Jordan Cronin is a writer from Cork, Ireland. She lives by the sea with her husband and young children in Cork, Ireland. A former tutor at Munster Technological University, she worked in the Irish civil service for a number of years before pursuing her passion for writing crime fiction. She has published two thrillers, Blinding Lies and Twisted Truth with Poolbeg Press. The Dark Hours will be published by Harper Collins HQ in September 2024.
Michelle Dunne is a writer from Cobh who has used some of her own experiences in the Irish Army and as a UN Peacekeeper to write her debut thriller, the first in the Lindsey Ryan series, While Nobody Is Watching which is currently in development for television. Her follow-up book, The Invisible was published in April 2022.
Michelle’s new thriller “GRACE” will be out in March 2024.
Catherine Ryan Howard is an award-winning, internationally bestselling author from Cork. Her lockdown thriller, 56 Days, was named a thriller of the year by the New York Times and the Washington Post, won the An Post Irish Crime Novel of the Year 2021 and is currently in development as a TV series with Atomic Monster/Amazon Studios. She has been shortlisted for the Mystery Writers of America Edgar Award for Best Novel and the CWA’s John Creasey and Ian Fleming Daggers, and longlisted for the Dublin Literary Award 2023. She is published in 19 languages and a number of her titles have been optioned for screen. Her next thriller, The Trap, will publish in August.
Arlene Hunt is an Irish author, film and book reviewer . She has written fifteen novels, the latest of which, While She Sleeps, was published by Hachette in August 2023 and she is currently working on new crime fiction book. A long distance runner, when not writing Arlene can usually be found half way up a mountain with two German Shepherds for company.
Catherine Kirwan grew up on a farm in the parish of Fews, County Waterford. She studied law at UCC and lives in Cork where she works as a solicitor. Her first novel, Darkest Truth, was chosen as Cork’s One City One Book by Cork City Libraries in 2019. Her current book, Cruel Deeds, is out now from Hachette Ireland.
Andrea Mara is a Sunday Times and Irish Times Top Ten bestselling author, who has been shortlisted for a number of awards, including Irish Crime Novel of the Year at the An Post Book Awards in 2022, 2021 and 2018.
Her novel All Her Fault was Sunday Times Crime Book of the Month, a top ten bestseller in the UK and in Ireland, and a Kindle Top 5 bestseller. It has sold over 100,000 copies and has been optioned for TV.
Hide And Seek, published in 2022, charted in the Irish Times bestseller list for five weeks. Her newest book, No One Saw A Thing,was published by Transworld/ Penguin Random House in May 2023. She lives in Dublin, Ireland, with her husband and three children, and also runs multi-award-winning
parent and lifestyle blog, OfficeMum.ie
Michelle McDonagh
Michelle has over 25 years experience as a journalist. She writes freelance for The Irish Times and a number of other publications. In the course of her career, she’s worked for all of the Irish national and tabloid papers covering news and courts, before switching solely to features and health, mainly for The Irish Times. Her debut novel There’s Something I Have To Tell You was published by Hachette in April 2023.
Tom O’Neill
Tom O’Neill is from Midleton, Co. Cork.
His first book, ‘The Battle of Clonmult’, was published by Nonsuch in 2006.
He co-wrote his second book, ‘The History of the 23 Infantry Battalion FCA, 1959 – 2005, with two fellow officers from the battalion. It was privately published in 2007.
Tom was a member of the team that produced the book, ‘A Great Sacrifice’, the definitive account of the Cork born individuals that lost their lives on military service, during the First World War. The book was published by Echo Publications (Cork) Ltd in 2010.
His book, ‘The Battle of Clonmult’ a revised edition, was published by The History Press in 2019.
His most recent book ‘Spike Island’s Republican Prisoners 1921’ was published by The History Press in 2021.
Tom has been involved on Spike Island since 1989. He worked on Spike with the Irish Prison Service in a managerial role from 1989 – 2010. He was the liaison officer for the Prison Service in the lead up to the handover of the island to Cork County Council in 2010. He joined Cork County Council in 2011 and was very much involved in the planning and development of the island into a tourist attraction. He is in a managerial role on Spike Island since 2011.
Kitty Murphy
Kitty Murphy lives with her husband, Roger, on the very westerly edge of Co. Clare, Ireland. She adores drag in all its forms and crime fiction in all its chilling splendour. Kitty is bi/queer. From a well-spent youth divided equally between the library and the LGBTQ+ scene, it was only a matter of time until both worlds collided in a flurry of fictional sequins.
Death in Heels, the first book in the Dublin Drag Mystery Series was published by Thomas & Mercer in 2022. The sequel, Death in the Dark, was released in 2023.
Queen Mia Gold
The queen of all queens, Mia Gold has gotten wind of the fact that Drag Queens are being bumped off in Kitty Murphy’s Dublin Drag Series (Death in Heels). Now she’s coming to Spike Island to confront the situation and to find out for herself, what exactly is going on and more importantly, what’s going to happen next!
John Spillane
John Spillane is a musician, songwriter, performer, recording artist, storyteller, poet and dreamer. Rooted in people, place and story, his music transports the listener and his live performances captivate audiences around the world.
After his acclaimed release of 100 Snow White Horses in 2021, in October 2022, John will released ‘In Another Light’ a career spanning album recorded live at the Right Here Right Now Festival recorded at Cork Opera House in November 2021.
We are thrilled to announce the much-anticipated return of the Spike Island Literary Festival for its third year, taking place from Friday 23rd to Sunday 25th August 2024. Mark your calendars for a weekend immersed in the world of crime writing, set against the backdrop of Spike Island’s unique and storied past.
Alice Bell
Andrea Carter
Tadhg Coakley
John Crotty
Sinéad Crowley
Amy Jordan
Catherine Kirwan
Gill Perdue
Michelle Teahan
As the night unfolds, the highlight of the event will be a spectacular fireworks display over Cork Harbour. A total of 1300 fireworks will illuminate the sky, symbolising the inmates who tragically lost their lives during Spike Island’s history as a prison in what promises to be a special tribute and a poignant reminder of the island’s past.
To mark the 220th anniversary of the laying of the foundation stone for Fort Westmoreland, Spike Island is hosting an exhibition entitled ‘Entwined History: Revealing Spike Island’s Forts’.
The plans on display show the path from concept to reality as architects, engineers, craftsmen and masons worked together to create a fortress ready to withstand any attack.
We feature General Charles Vallancey, a man behind the design of Fort Westmoreland I. The first edition of his book, ‘A Vindication of the Ancient History of Ireland’ published in 1786 is on display along with other artefacts related to the early stages of the fort and the Royal Artillery.
Nicky Lovick
Cónal Creedon
Neil Lancaster
Imran Mahmood
Dr Marie Cassidy
Michelle Dunne
Arlene Hunt
Jo Spain
Tadhg Coakley
Cónal Creedon
Amy Cronin
Michelle Dunne
Catherine Ryan Howard
Arlene Hunt
Catherine Kirwan
Andrea Mara
Michelle McDonagh
Tom O’Neill
Kitty Murphy
Queen Mia Gold
John Spillane