Falmouth University will host a public lecture by novelist Emily Barr on Thursday, March 3, at its Penryn Campus.

Emily will discuss how her real-life travels inspire her novel writing, from travelling in Asia for her first novel, Backpack, to her latest novel, The One Memory of Flora Banks, created while on a dramatic solo trip to Svalbard in the Arctic. She will also reflect on her personal journey from hard-up single mother to securing a major publishing deal.

"I am absolutely delighted to be joining the school of writing and journalism as writer in residence, and honoured to be following in the footsteps of such amazing writers as Matt Haig, Owen Sheers and Lionel Shriver," said Emily.

"I am a huge admirer of the work that the school does, and I know that it is very well respected both within the publishing industry and as a part of the community. I love working with students, and can't wait to get started on a busy programme of workshops, tutorials and lectures."

Emily worked as a journalist before going on a trip around the world, which inspired Backpack, an adult thriller that won the WH Smith New Talent Award. She has since written 11 more adult novels. Her twelfth novel, The Sleeper, is a psychological thriller set on the London to Cornwall sleeper train.

The lecture will take place at 6.30pm in the Chapel Lecture Theatre on the Penryn Campus and will be followed by a book signing. Places are free but tickets should be booked by visiting emilybarrlecture.eventbrite.co.uk.