Crime fiction is taking centre stage at this year’s Literary Leicester festival as a tribute to Agatha Christie, marking 50 years since the death of the “Queen of Crime”.
On Wednesday 18 March, the University of Leicester will host a series of events celebrating crime fiction and exploring the life and legacy of Agatha Christie.
Picture credit: University of Leicester
The day will begin with The Life and Times of Agatha Christie (12:30–1:30pm, Attenborough Arts Centre), reflecting on the extraordinary life and cultural impact of the world-famous author.
Later sessions will examine the craft and future of crime writing. How to Be a Liar (2–3pm) will delve into the role of deception and misdirection in crime fiction, while Crimes of Tomorrow (3:30–4:30pm) will explore how the genre continues to evolve in response to new technologies, investigative techniques and changing social anxieties.
The evening programme features two of the most prominent voices in contemporary crime fiction.
Best-selling author Sophie Hannah, chosen by the Agatha Christie estate to continue the adventures of Hercule Poirot, will discuss her experience writing new Poirot novels in Sophie Hannah: Poirot and Me (6:30–7:30pm, Sir Bob Burgess Building).
She will be followed by novelist and screenwriter Louise Doughty, author of the critically acclaimed thriller Apple Tree Yard, who will reflect on her career and the craft of suspense in Louise Doughty: A Life in Writing (8–9pm).
Festival co-director Dr Harry Whitehead said: “This is going to be a truly unique opening day of the festival. And our two headliners are among the country’s favourite authors. Sophie Hannah’s books are bestsellers in over fifty countries and novels by Louise Doughty – born in Melton Mowbray! – are loved by millions. The whole day is going to be entertaining, enlightening and fascinating as we dive into the craft of writing suspense and crime to celebrate the amazing legacy of Agatha Christie.”
Literary Leicester runs from 18–21 March 2026, with all events free to attend.
The full programme of this year’s Literary Leicester festival can be found below.
More information can be found at: https://le.ac.uk/literary-leicester
