Step back into Thomas Hardy’s Wessex of the late nineteenth century with this richly
illustrated presentation of historical, geographical, and photographic imagery, as
Mike discusses writing his sequel to Tess of the d’Urbervilles, and reveals the
processes he used to craft and research his novels, The Second Mrs Clare and A
Casterbridge Tale. With book extracts read by Caroline Bleakley and Robert
Seatter.
Mike, a long-standing member of Questors, is an actor, director and designer. In
2018, Mike, together with Caroline Bleakley, adapted and directed Thomas Hardy’s
Tess of the d’Urbervilles for the Questors stage.
Tracy Hayes has published widely on Thomas Hardy's life and works. She has also
served as Secretary and Website/Social Media Director for the Thomas Hardy
Society, regularly organising conferences and study days.
The Second Mrs Clare 'A wonderful sequel to Hardy's great novel'
A Casterbridge Tale ‘A great read in the best traditions of Victorian Crime novels’
This event has been scheduled to coincide with the Ealing Book Festival 2026
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