THE award-winning author of bestselling book “Chocolat” gave a talk to a sold-out crowd in Crediton on Saturday, September 6.

Joanne Harris event 6 September 2025 Joanne Harris with Izzy Fitzgerald, left, Mark Norman and Tracey Norman of the Folklore Library and Archive at the Boniface Centre (Will Goddard, Crediton Courier)
Joanne Harris, centre, with Izzy FitzGerald, left, Mark Norman and Tracey Norman of The Folklore Library and Archive at the Boniface Centre (Will Goddard, Crediton Courier)

Joanne Harris OBE spoke at the Boniface Centre about her latest novel “Vianne” and her writing career.

The Bookery selling copies of Ms Harris' books
The Bookery selling copies of Ms Harris' books (Will Goddard, Crediton Courier)

Crediton bookshop The Bookery sold copies of Ms Harris’ books at the event, and Creedy Kitchen, Hex Coffee House (formerly @100), and Tempt chocolatiers of Totnes sold chocolate treats and baked goods.

Joanne Harris event 6 September 2025 Jonathan Elworthy and Eve Drover of Hex Coffee House offered French hot chocolates and brownies (Will Goddard, Crediton Courier)
Jonathan Elworthy and Eve Drover of Hex Coffee House offered French hot chocolates and brownies (Will Goddard, Crediton Courier)

The evening was hosted by Crediton-based charity The Folklore Library and Archive, which preserves local historical material.

Joanne Harris event 6 September 2025 Lisa and Dave Hatt of Creedy Kitchen sold baked goods at the event (Will Goddard, Crediton Courier)
Lisa and Dave Hatt of Creedy Kitchen sold baked goods at the event (Will Goddard, Crediton Courier)

Proceeds from the event will help the charity fund its recent relocation to better premises in the town.

Tempt chocolatiers did a roaring trade
Tempt chocolatiers did a roaring trade (Will Goddard, Crediton Courier)

“Chocolat” was published in 1999 and made into a film in 2000 starring Juliette Binoche and Johnny Depp.