Writing the Gothic: a masterclass

As we approach the darkest time of year, join award-winning author Cathryn Kemp as she delves into gothic fiction and how it continues to resonate today.

We’ll explore themes of mystery, horror and the supernatural, as well as settings, characters, dread and building the gothic world in your writing. With writing exercises and prompts, you’ll craft the uncanny alongside discussion. 

Bring a pen, notebook or laptop and put the gothic into your fiction.

When:  6-8pm on Wednesday 16th December 2026

Where: Kemptown Bookshop, Brighton 

Cost: £45 (including VAT) 

Cathryn Kemp is an acclaimed, award-winning, best-selling author. Her debut novel, A POISONER’S TALE, won the HWA debut Crown 2025, and Le Grand Prix du Roman Historique 2026, and has been published in multiple territories globally. Her second novel, THEY CAN’T BURN US ALL was recently published by Penguin Random House. Cathryn’s memoir COMING CLEAN won The Big Red Read Prize for Non-Fiction and inspired the formation of a charity. Cathryn is also a Sunday Times bestselling ghostwriter writing celebrity, public figure, true crime and inspirational titles.

We apologise for the inconvenience but our bookshop is currently not wheelchair accessible. The toilet is located on the ground floor. The event space is located at the top of a staircase (17 steps).

Please do get in touch if you’d like to know more details to plan your visit ahead. Email is: salomee@kemptownbookshop.co.uk