Book lovers are being invited to meet a celebrated Isle of Wight author when Emily Bullock visits Ventnor Library later this month to discuss her latest novel, Almost a Ghost Story.
The free event will take place on Friday 30th October 2026 at 6.30pm, giving readers the chance to hear first-hand how the Island helped inspire the novel’s characters, setting and story.
Inspired by Ventnor and the Fringe
Set in and around Ventnor and the Ventnor Fringe Festival, Almost a Ghost Story begins aboard a midnight ferry crossing to the Island, where four passengers find their lives and destinies tragically entwined.
Award-winning writer
Emily, who grew up on the Isle of Wight and recently returned to live on the Island, is an award-winning writer whose work has received national recognition.
She won the Bristol Short Story Prize, while her debut novel, The Longest Fight, was shortlisted for the Cross Sports Book Awards and named among The Independent’s Paperbacks of the Year.
During the event, Emily will talk about drawing inspiration from Ventnor and the wider Island, and how familiar locations and landscapes helped bring her atmospheric ghost story to life.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to ask questions about her writing career and creative process.
Borrowing and buying the book
Copies of Almost a Ghost Story are now available to borrow from Ventnor Library, and following the event the book will also be available as a reading group set for Island book clubs.
Signed copies can be purchased from Waterstones in Newport, while Emily will bring copies of all her novels to the event for sale (cash only).
Louise Emery, development librarian, said,
“We’re delighted to welcome Emily Bullock back to Ventnor Library to talk about her latest novel.
“Emily has a strong connection to the Isle of Wight and it’s wonderful to see local places and communities reflected in her work.
“This event is a fantastic opportunity for readers to meet an accomplished author, learn more about the inspiration behind her writing and celebrate a novel that is firmly rooted in the Island. We expect plenty of interest, so we’d encourage people to reserve a place early.”
How to book a place
Emily’s talk takes place on Friday 30th October 2026 at 6.30pm at Ventnor Library.
Places are free, but numbers are limited.
Anyone wishing to attend can reserve a place by visiting Ventnor Library or calling (01983) 852 039.
News shared by Isle of Wight council press office, in their own words. Ed
