Overview

Why does espionage fiction remain so popular and compelling? Join three leading writers in the genre. The granddaughter of infamous British traitor Kim Philby has written a fictionalised account of the fascinating relationship between her grandfather and the woman who recruited him as a Soviet spy in the 1930s. Jake Kerridge is the crime and thriller reviewer of the Daily Telegraph and local Ealing author Alex Gerlis’s latest bestseller is based on real events that took place during the Second World War.

Chairing this event is Shane Whaley, the passionate force behind Spybrary, a podcast and vibrant community of spy fiction aficionados who enjoy his engaging discussions, interviews, and reviews.

In association with Spybrary.com

About The Authors

Charlotte Philby is a journalist and author of four spy novels, all focusing on the role of women in espionage.

Jake Kerridge is the crime and thriller reviewer of The Daily Telegraph, as well as one of the UK’s leading commentators on the world of books and publishing. He has interviewed writers ranging from Margaret Atwood to Elmore Leonard and, in the spy fiction field, John le Carré, Len Deighton, Mick Herron, Charles Cumming and many more

Ealing-based Alex Gerlis is a former BBC journalist who began writing espionage novels in 2011 when he left the BBC. He has written eleven novels, all  set in Europe during the Second World War and  based on real events. 

Shane Whaley the host of the Spybrary Podcast, is a seasoned podcaster and a fervent enthusiast of spy books and espionage history. His insightful discussions and engaging style make him a beloved figure among spy genre aficionados.

About Ealing Book Festival

The aim of Ealing Book Festival is to celebrate the joy of reading and to advance engagement and education around literature and reading. Through our events we hope to bring people and communities together; inspire and develop writers of all ages; showcase well-known authors and promote local writers, and grow book-loving audiences. The Festival team is Catherine Jaquiss, Jeff Brown, Alex Gerlis, Anne Elletson, Tanya Burgess, Nadine Thompson, Jeff Highfield, Ian Burge, Emma Walker and Natalie Arestis.

 www.ealingbookfestival.com.