CrimeFest 2025 to feature exclusive John le Carré event with author’s two sons

CrimeFest 2025 is set to feature an exclusive John le Carré event with author’s two sons. Le Carré’s son Nick Harkaway will attend the ‘Ghost of Honour’ panel to discuss his latest novel, Karla’s Choice. In the book, Nick brought back one of his father’s most famous literary creations – George Smiley.

The panel will also feature le Carré’s other son, the film producer Simon Cornwell, who is the c.e.o. and co-founder of the independent studio, The Ink Factory. Further guests for the panel are to be announced.

Director and co-founder of CrimeFest, Adrian Muller, said: “As a genre, crime fiction dominates our TV and film screens, and John le Carré is undoubtedly a seminal influence. It’s a huge honour to welcome his sons. We’re excited to discuss Nick’s acclaimed novel, and to get an exclusive look into the upcoming adaptations of le Carré’s iconic novels with Simon.”

The festival will take place from 15th to 18th May 2025, at the Mercure Bristol Grand Hotel, featuring up to 150 authors, appearing in more than 50 panels.

CrimeFest began in 2008 and this year Canadian mystery writer, Cathy Ace; Andrew Child, who has taken over writing the Jack Reacher novels from his brother Lee; novelist and Diamond Dagger recipient John Harvey; and Kate Ellis, winner of the CWA Dagger in the Library award, have also been confirmed as attending.

The CrimeFest bursary for a crime fiction author of colour is also returning for a fourth year. The bursary covers the costs of a weekend pass to the convention, with a night’s accommodation and panel appearance. Previous recipients include Saima Mir and Elizabeth Chakrabarty. Entries for 2025 are now open.

To find out more go to: the Crimefest website