Philippa Malicka in conversation with Dr Laura Varnam

Univ Shakespeare Society hosts alumna novelist Philippa Malicka in conversation with her former tutor Dr Laura Varnam about her debut psychological thriller In Her Defence.

The Univ Shakespeare Society presents Philippa Malicka (2007, English) in conversation with her former English tutor Dr Laura Varnam about her 2026 debut novel, the psychological thriller In Her Defence. The novel centres on a celebrity libel trial in which therapist Jean Guest is accused of brainwashing her client Mary, told by a young woman on the periphery who holds the power to decide the case. Malicka will discuss her journey from student to novelist and introduce the book, which was selected for Reese Witherspoon's Book Club in the US. Drinks follow the event and books will be available to purchase.