Harrogate: Maxis, Mysteries & a Bit of Madness
07 August 2025
I arrived in Harrogate the way all proper noir heroines should: jet-lagged, disoriented, and fending off a creep on the street.
I’d flown into Leeds, then taken the bus toward Harrogate’s postcard-perfect charm. But navigating the streets with luggage in tow turned into a scene from a pulp novel — including an unsolicited attempt at conversation from a stranger I quickly dispatched with a few choice words. Not exactly the welcome I had in mind.
When I finally reached my hotel, let’s just say... I chose gratitude. The room was humble — very humble — but I figured that was the universe's way of encouraging me to stay out, attend the panels, and push past my introvert instincts.
And I’m so glad I did.
🎪 Old Peculier - The Festival Vibe
The July festival, held under a sprawling white tent outside the historic Old Swan Hotel, was lively and intimate. Everyone I met — from volunteers to fellow writers — was warm, gracious, and refreshingly down-to-earth.
The awards ceremony, held right at the start of the event (not at the end, as I was used to), was one of the most relaxed I’ve ever seen. Picture bestselling authors in maxi dresses, Hawaiian shirts, and shorts, swapping witty banter with their presenters instead of delivering stiff acceptance speeches. The whole thing was as informal as it was hilarious — a perfect introduction to the spirit of Harrogate.
👣 Finding My Footing
Still, by the next morning, I was feeling a little out of sorts. I didn’t know anyone yet, and the list of panels I’d planned to attend felt more like a lifeline than a guide.
Then, like a gift from the conference gods, I bumped into Christal Roberts, a fellow member of Crime Writers of Color. Christal is brilliant, kind, and easygoing — the kind of person who makes you feel like you belong in any room. She became my festival buddy, and together we met some truly wonderful folks, including Attica Locke.
Persia Walker (left) with Attica Locke (right), July 17, 2025. Theakston’s Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival, Harrogate, UK.
📚 Reacher, Reunions, and a Perfect Ending
I only attended two full days — Friday and Saturday — but packed in as much as I could. Saturday night closed with a talk from Lee Child and his brother Andrew, who’s now carrying the Reacher torch. I hadn’t seen Lee in years, not since my New York days, so it was a real pleasure to reconnect after his signing. A quick chat, a few laughs — the perfect close to my first Harrogate.
Persia Walker (left) with Lee Child (right), July 19, 2025. Theakston’s Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival, Harrogate, UK. © Persia Walker. All rights reserved.
I’ve already signed up for next year.
