Curtis Garner 'Orange' (Published Feb 2026)

Curtis Garner, author of the acclaimed debut and 'instant queer classic' 'Isaac', will be speaking about his candid and atmospheric second novel 'Orange'. Set between the Cornish coast and East London, two teenage boys Daniel Orange and local boy Jago form an unexpected and transformative connection in the quiet fishing village of Portscatho in 2018. Five years later, Daniel has rewritten himself in London: sharper, louder, queer in a way the city understands. But a visit from Jago stirs up a reckoning with his former life, forcing them both to question how much change their bond can withstand.
Garner blends coming of age with literary romance and a touch of family drama to create an unflinchingly honest portrait of first love and self-discovery and examines how we reconcile our past selves with the people we become.High quality bar by The Outside Inn (inc locally distilled spirits by Norton Barton Artisan Food Village) and delicious Serendip Sri Lankan Street food available at The Parkhouse CentrePlease bring cash for a raffle to support Bude Literary Festival and 'Read For Good' (A charity that provides storytellers for children in UK hospitals.Stay on to see Patrick Gale at 4pm, Harry Baker ('Tender') at 8pm and beautiful music from 10pm - 11pm with Tom Hickox.