Fans flock to see bestselling author discuss his book

Croft Hall is packed out as bestselling novelist takes questions and signs books

BESTSELLING author Robert Harris visited The Croft Hall in Hungerford on Friday to discuss his new novel, Conclave.

As well as discussing the plot, the Kintbury-based writer took questions from the packed audience and signed copies of his work.

The event was promoted by Arts for Hungerford.

Conclave deals with the machinations and power struggles triggered by the death of the Pope as rival contenders wait to see which will become the most powerful spiritual figure on earth.

Speaking to Newbury Weekly News arts editor, Trish Lee, Mr Harris (pictured, with Hungerford Bookshop co-owner, Emma Milne-White) confessed: “It wasn’t an easy book to write. My wife used to ask me how things were going each day, and I always used to say ‘Oh, I’m at a tricky bit’.

“It became a standing joke. Every bit was a tricky bit. I suppose because I was dealing with a world of prayer and faith and ritual which are beyond my experience.”

See today's Newbury Weekly News for the full interview.