Peter Moore and Bridget O’Donnell, who began their careers as authors on City University’s MA creative writing non-fiction programme, discuss the joys and challenges of writing narrative history. What inspired them to write their stories – both focused around historical crimes – how did they research their stories, how did they find a publisher, what does the working life of an author entail?

Julie Wheelwright, programme director of the MA Creative Writing Non-fiction will chair a discussion with authors, Peter Moore, Damn His Blood (Chatto and Windus)  and Bridget O’Donnell, Inspector Minahan Makes a Stand (Picador). Both graduates of City’s programme, the only dedicated non-fiction MA in the UK, these alumni will do a short reading from their books and discuss the realities of researching, and writing history.

Peter Moore, is a 29 year-old writer and visiting lecturer on the MA creative writing non-fiction programme at City. His first book, Damn His Blood, was serealised on BBC Radio 4 as Book of the Week and garnered rave reviews for its depth of research and vivid prose.

Bridget O’Donnell, whose book, Inspector Minahan Takes a Stand was published last month, has also received excellent reviews and been interviewed about the book on Radio 4 and on RTE Ireland. A former BBC producer/director in drama and documentary, her credits include the launch film for BBC4, Surrealissimo! starring Stephen Fry and Mark Gatiss, investigative documentaries into Thai trafficking, corruption in the US army and Princess Diana’s will, as well as Crimewatch UK, where she directed reconstructions.

The event starts at 6pm for a 6:30pm start, when Peter and Bridget will read extracts from their books, will be interviewed by Julie Wheelwright, and then the audience will have an opportunity to ask questions. Refreshments will be available in the foyer and a book signing will follow he event.

For more information please visit the City University website.