Bestselling author GP Taylor returns to Harrogate for signing at new independent bookshop

A former North Yorkshire police officer who went on to become a New York Times bestselling author is returning to Harrogate this weekend to meet readers at one of the town's newest independent bookshops.

GP Taylor will be signing copies of his latest novel, Pig in the Pulpit, at The Real Indie Bookshop on Parliament Street from 10am to 3pm on Saturday, November 14.

The visit marks a return to familiar ground for the acclaimed author, who served as a police officer in North Yorkshire before later becoming an Anglican vicar and embarking on an international writing career.

Taylor first found worldwide success with his debut novel Shadowmancer, which became a New York Times bestseller and launched a career spanning more than 20 books, two films and millions of sales in more than 50 languages.

His novel Mariah Mundi was adapted into a Hollywood film starring Sam Neill, Michael Sheen and Game of Thrones actress Lena Headey, while in 2007 he was named BBC Arts and Entertainment Personality of the Year.

Recalling his years policing the area, Taylor said: "It's great coming back to Harrogate.

“I have fond memories of the town when I was a police officer."

He added that he was regularly called into Harrogate to support local officers, particularly during busy periods such as New Year's Eve.

Among his strongest memories is stopping a car carrying suspected shoplifters in Northallerton.

"The vehicle was full of goods stolen in Harrogate," he said.

"I spent a lovely few days going around the shops getting the items identified.

“Some of the shops didn't even realise they had been stolen.”

Joining Taylor at the signing will be children's author Marmalade Atkinson, whose debut novel The Sleepless Nights of the Boy with No Eyelids has proved a hit with readers across the country.

The signing event offers readers the chance to meet both authors and celebrate independent bookselling at The Real Indie Bookshop, which opened on Parliament Street on Thursday, November 12.

Admission is free, with copies of both authors' books available to purchase on the day.