Events

Matt Cain is a writer, broadcaster and leading commentator on LGBTQ+ issues. He was Channel 4’s first Culture Editor, Editor-In-Chief of Attitude magazine, has written for all the national newspapers, and has appeared on BBC Breakfast, Good Morning Britain, The Today Programme and Lorraine.  He’s a patron of LGBT+ History Month, has received an honorary doctorate from Bolton University, addressed the Cambridge Union, and in 2025 was awarded an MBE for services to LGBTQ+ culture. Matt’s bestselling novels include The Madonna Of Bolton, The Secret Life of Albert Entwistle and One Love. His latest, The Castle of Stories, is set in the Italian property that has become his second home. Born in Bury and brought up in Bolton, Matt’s main home is in London with his husband Harry and their dog, Teddy.

Modern Family meets The Durrell’s in this life-affirming, poignant and evocative novel set against the idyllic beauty of the Tuscan countryside. Stories don’t always unfold the way you expect them to… When 45-year-old Adam inherits a rundown farmhouse and castle in Tuscany from a great uncle he didn’t know existed, he quits his job in Manchester to renovate the property. He’s thrilled his boyfriend of two years, newly divorced and out-of-the-closet Theo, is joining him. But Theo’s ex-wife says she can’t take their children for the summer, so they come too. As the temperature rises, so does the tension. The kids are hostile to Adam, immune to the beauty of the rural location – and scared of the resident lizards. As Adam explores the crumbling walls of the castle and sorts through his uncle’s possessions, he discovers some dark family secrets. But could they finally allow him to break free from the pain of the past, start building a new family and open up a life of queer joy? The Castle of Stories is a moving, heart-warming and uplifting novel about modern family in all its forms, what it means to love, and the importance of understanding your own story.

‘Written with such a good heart, filled with joy and strength and optimism’ RUSSELL T. DAVIES

‘A book for anybody who feels at all marginalised, small, bullied or lost’ CLAUDIA WINKLEMAN

‘Wonderful . . . An utter treat’ KATE MOSSE

This event will take place at The Heath Bookshop and tickets are on sale now.

We look forward to seeing you.

Catherine & Claire