Maxine Linnell

A Leicester author is one of two ‘edgy’ writers appearing at Loughborough University next week in an evening for readers and writers interested in young adult fiction.

Maxine Linnell, who has published six books, and Londoner Savita Kalhan will form a panel of authors giving talks, discussing their work and signing books for the audience on Tuesday May 13.

They will be part of an event called the ‘Loughborough Literary Salon: Writing for Young Adults in the 21st Century’, which will be held in Martin Hall and is open to the public.

There will also be panels of agents and publishers who will give an insight into the world of literature. All the speakers will be involved in round-table discussions on an evening when the emphasis is on conversation, networking and social experience.

Guest speakers also include representatives from literary agents Diamond Khan and Woods, and independent publisher Walker Books, who will be talking about young adult fiction

The event, which is in its second year, will be led by Dr Melanie Ramdarshan Bold, lecturer in publishing, and Dr Kerry Featherstone, lecturer in creative writing.

Dr Featherstone said: “This is a really good opportunity for people who read and write young adult fiction to meet a couple of edgy authors.

“They are both writers for the 21^st century who are experienced in writing different formats for young adults. They write strong, gripping books, which include issues like abuse.”

Maxine has published six books, including Vintage and Closer, the latter examining the consequences when a stepdad gets too close to his daughters.

Savita was born in India but moved to the UK when she was young. Her debut novel, The Long Weekend, is a gritty book about two boys who are abducted after school. It was short-listed for the Fab Award 2010.

The event begins at 7.00pm and closes around 9.00pm. Refreshments will be provided.

Prior booking is required, and tickets are priced at £10 and £5 concessions.

For more information, please contact Helen Relf or Melanie Ramdarshan-Bold