Enjoy an electrifying evening of dystopian and fantasy fiction with two of the genre's most exciting voices.

International bestseller Samantha Shannon (The Bone Season) introduces Among the Burning Flowers, a gripping standalone prequel to her Roots of Chaos series. Set in a fractured world facing rising threats, it follows Princess Marosa, her betrothed Aubrecht, and dragon hunter Estina, as they navigate power, resistance, and the hope of change.

Saara El-Arifi, bestselling author of Faebound, returns with Cursebound, the dazzling sequel in her epic fantasy trilogy. Yeeran and Lettle are no longer prisoners to the fae court, but they’re now bound by the shackles of their hearts. Can they discover the secret behind the curse – and unite these two worlds before they destroy each other?

Together, Samantha and Saara will explore epic storytelling and character creation. Presented in partnership with Waterstones Deansgate and sponsored by The Maldron Hotel.

MLF Get Closer Membership starts at £25 p.a. and includes advance booking amongst other benefits. Further info here. To access your advance booking, please log in or create a Contact account.

To see the full Manchester Literature Festival 2025 programme visit here.