#BOOKS: MOTIVE CRIME & MYSTERY FESTIVAL 2025

Tickets are on sale now for MOTIVE Crime & Mystery Festival featuring more than 40 authors appearing over three days, including international bestsellers, notable debuts, workshops, readings and more.

MOTIVE Crime & Mystery Festival will return with incredible authors for its fourth spine-tingling year from this weekend at U of T’s Victoria University. Highlights include the return of forensic science workshops, an immersive murder mystery performance, and in-depth panels on Canadian and international crime writing – spanning cozy mysteries to psychological thrillers. The lineup also features masterclasses, Toronto Crime Tours, and timely true crime discussions led by journalists, former FBI agents, and subject-matter experts.

Key authors appearing include: Shari Lapena, Denise Mina, Eliza Reid, Linwood Barclay, Liann Zhang, Lisa Unger and more.

Passes for MOTIVE Crime & Mystery Festival start at $20 CAD and are on sale now. Canadian booklovers can purchase them at festivalofauthors.ca/motive-2025/.

MOTIVE runs:

Friday, June 27, 2025

1:30 PM – 8:30 PM

Saturday, June 28, 2025

11:00 AM – 8:30 PM

Sunday, June 29, 2025

11:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Victoria University at the University of Toronto

73 Queens Park #106, Toronto, ON M5S 1K7

#BOOKS: ENTER FOR A CHANCE TO WIN PASSES TO THE MOTIVE CRIME & MYSTERY FESTIVAL 2025

The MOTIVE Crime & Mystery Festival is returning to Toronto for its fourth year from June 27 – 29, 2025.

Presented by the Toronto International Festival of Authors (TIFA), MOTIVE is Canada’s leading celebration of crime, mystery, and thriller writing – drawing bestselling authors, emerging talent, and passionate fans from around the world. New this year, is the gothic revival location of U of T’s Victoria University. Attendees will get to hear from bestselling crime and mystery authors, cult-favourite crime podcasters, and meet other thriller fans for a weekend of whodunits and edge-of-your-seat programming.

To enter for a chance to win passes to the festival, visit our X page, “like” and comment on the post pertaining to this Festival, and tag 1 friend you’ll bring with you!

More on the Festival here.

Rules and regulations here.

#FIRSTLOOK: 2025 TORONTO INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF AUTHORS ANNOUNCE “MOTIVE CRIME & MYSTERY FESTIVAL”

Something wicked this way comes to Toronto’s literary scene. The Toronto International Festival of Authors (TIFA) today announced that MOTIVE Crime & Mystery Festival will return for its fourth spine-tingling year from June 27 to 29, 2025 at University of Toronto (U of T). In a new partnership with Victoria University at U of T, the festival will transform these gothic halls into an epicentre of literary suspense.

MOTIVE will bring together an unprecedented mix of voices this year including: Iceland’s former First Lady Eliza Reid who recently made her fiction debut, international bestseller Shari Lapena returning as a festival favourite, romance star Uzma Jalaluddin crossing into the wildly popular cozy crime category, and thriller master Linwood Barclay continuing to define the genre. This year’s festival will unfold in a new location at University of Toronto – within the fitting gothic revival halls of Victoria University. This new atmospheric backdrop will allow attendees to immerse themselves in the festival’s celebration of crime and mystery storytelling.

“We’re thrilled to be presenting MOTIVE Crime & Mystery Festival in partnership with Victoria University this year,” says Roland Gulliver, Director of TIFA, “With our new venue, the festival brings together crime and mystery fans for a weekend where analyzing clues, discussing murder weapons, and debating red herrings over coffee is perfectly normal, and everyone appreciates a good plot twist. We’re incredibly proud that our roster of authors is filled with bestsellers from Canada and across the globe, while also featuring veteran talent and new voices.”

This year’s program offers a compelling mix of true crime, interactive events, and literary exploration, appealing to both dedicated readers and aspiring writers. Highlights include the return of forensic science workshops, an immersive Gin & Sin mystery performance, and in-depth panels on Canadian and international crime writing – spanning cozy mysteries to psychological thrillers. The lineup also features masterclasses, Toronto Crime Tours, and timely true crime discussions led by journalists, former FBI agents, and subject-matter experts.

Passes for MOTIVE Crime & Mystery Festival start at $20 CAD and are on sale now. Canadian booklovers can purchase them at festivalofauthors.ca/motive-2025/. To request complimentary press tickets, please email akasha@thetarogroup.com for more information. Full programming details can be found here – the event will feature appearances by notable authors from Canada, Argentina, France, Korea, Norway, UK and the USA, including but not limited to:

*alphabetical by last name

Linwood Barclay

Toronto-based New York Times bestselling author whose books have been translated into more than two dozen languages and sold millions of copies. Many of Barclay’s books have been optioned for film and television.

Jane Corry

Sunday Times and Washington Post bestseller who has sold over 1.5 million copies worldwide and is a former writer-in-residence at high security male prison.

Sue Hincenbergs

Toronto-based debut novelist (The Retirement Plan), Sue, is a former television producer that spent her career working on award-winning programming ranging from sitcoms, sports, game shows, music specials, award shows and morning television.

Gregg Hurwitz

New York Times #1 internationally bestselling author of 26 thrillers including the Orphan X series. His novels have won numerous literary awards and Hurwitz has written screenplays and television scripts for many of the major studios and networks, and comics for AWA, DC, and Marvel.

Uzma Jalaluddin

Wildly popular romance writer who has made her first transition to cozy crime with her latest novel (Detective Aunty). Previous work includes Much Ado About Nada (2023) and Three Holidays and a Wedding (2023) which was a Good Morning America Buzz Pick.
Denise Mina

Scottish writer specializing in detective fiction including recently rebooting Raymond Chandler’s iconic detective series featuring Philip Marlowe. Mina was inducted into the Crime Writers’ Association Hall of Fame in 2014.

Shari Lapena

1 internationally bestselling author and former lawyer and English teacher, Lapena has written eight suspense novels from her Ontario farm, including The Couple Next Door, which was a runaway global bestseller, selling 4 million copies worldwide.

Eliza Reid

Eliza Reid is a bestselling writer, public speaker, gender equality advocate, cofounder of the acclaimed Iceland Writers Retreat and former First Lady of Iceland. Reid was born and raised in Canada but has lived in Iceland for over twenty years. Her first novel, an Iceland-set mystery called Death of a Diplomat was published earlier this year.

Lisa Unger

New York Times and internationally bestselling author of twenty-two novels, including Close Your Eyes and Count to 10. With books published in thirty-three languages and millions of copies sold worldwide, she is regarded as a master of suspense.

Liann Zhang

Liann Zhang is a first-time novelist and second-generation Chinese Canadian who splits her time between Vancouver, British Columbia and Toronto. Zhang graduated from the University of Toronto with a degree in psychology and criminology.

About TIFA:

Where Every Story Finds A Stage

For five decades, the Toronto International Festival of Authors (TIFA) has been bringing writers to readers, authors to audiences as Canada’s longest running literary festival.

We believe stories have the power to transform lives, connect cultures, and build communities. Through innovative programming, exceptional author experiences, and inclusive celebrations of literary diversity, TIFA creates spaces where every reader can discover their next great story and every story finds its perfect audience. TIFA reflects Toronto’s position as one of the world’s most diverse literary communities. From intimate author conversations to innovative events and programmes, every TIFA experience is crafted to remind you why stories matter.

In 2025, TIFA evolves into a year-round celebration of storytelling through three distinct festivals and a year-round programme of events and projects, maintaining our commitment to exceptional programming and unforgettable experiences.

Whether you’re a lifelong literary devotee or just beginning your reading journey, TIFA offers experiences designed to deepen your connection to the stories that shape our world.

TIFA’s Festivals:

MOTIVE Crime & Mystery Festival June 27-29 transforms summer into a season of suspense, presenting master storytellers of crime and mystery from Canada and around the world. It’s where literary sophistication meets pulse-pounding entertainment. Presented in partnership with Victoria University at University of Toronto.

Toronto International Festival of Authors October 29 – November 2 our flagship fall celebration, a reimagined five-day format will heighten the festival’s impact, with exclusive opportunities to see Canadian and international literary voices, and fostering cross-genre collaborations from the grassroots to the global, with music, film, poetry slams, performances and free activities. Presented in partnership with Victoria University at University of Toronto.

TIFA Romance November 21-23 presented by Rakuten Kobo. Love stories for those who love stories. Recognizing romance as both the world’s most popular genre and one of literature’s most powerful forces. From Rom-com to Romantasy, sweeping historical romances to whirlwind fantasies, romance fans can discover the books and authors that will write their way into their hearts.

TIFA’s programmes:

TIFA Presents a programme of year-round events bringing world-class authors to Toronto.

Toronto Lit Up (supported by the Toronto Arts Council) presenting book launches of Toronto authors across the city, all year;

International Visitor (IV) Programme, (supported by Ontario Creates and the Canada Book Fund) offering Canadian publishers and agents an unprecedented opportunity to secure international rights and distribution deals.

TIFA gratefully acknowledges support from the Government of Canada – Department of Canadian Heritage; Canada Council for the Arts; Ontario Arts Council; Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund; Toronto Arts Council; Work in Culture Catalyst and Transformation Fund; and Victoria University at University of Toronto Centre for Creativity, plus generous patrons and supporters who understand that great literature is worth investing in.

#FIRSTLOOK: 2023 TORONTO INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF AUTHORS

Proceed with caution! The Toronto International Festival of Authors (TIFA) today announced the guest lineup and programming for the second annual MOTIVE, Canada’s largest crime and mystery writing festival, taking place June 2 to 4. Book lovers will be able to come together to enjoy over 40 in-person events at Harbourfront Centre and three free virtual offerings. MOTIVE will welcome some of the world’s leading masters of mystery to participate in readings, conversations, book signings, masterclasses, musical performances and more. Passes go on sale on May 4 at FestivalofAuthors.ca/Motive and through the Harbourfront Centre Box Office by phone at 416-973-4000.

From cosy crime to police procedural, psychological thriller to true crime, these page-turning genres have produced some of the most celebrated storytellers worldwide, who are loved by readers everywhere.

“We are thrilled to be presenting the second MOTIVE programme and to celebrate great crime and mystery writing from Canada and around the world. Crime and mystery writing continues to captivate readers. The genre’s popularity attests to the power of masterful storytelling that also allows us to reflect on our contemporary, social issues,” said Roland Gulliver, Director, Toronto International Festival of Authors. “Festival goers can experience the finest storytellers across a broad range of genres and entertaining events, which perhaps challenge preconceived notions of mystery and crime literature. As we prepare for the second year of MOTIVE, we look forward to welcoming everyone for a wonderful weekend full of mystery.”

Below is some of the wide array of programming that will be offered at this year’s MOTIVE. For more information, visit FestivalofAuthors.ca/Motive.

CONVERSATIONS AND READINGS
The Festival is pleased to welcome an incredible selection of writers from Canada and around the world including Denmark, France, Iceland, India, Norway, UK and US, to discuss their spine-chilling stories, including:

Former FBI director James Comey introduces his debut novel, Central Park West. Drawing from his decades in federal law enforcement and years in Manhattan as a mob prosecutor, the story follows a murder investigation that reveals deadly connections between high-ranking politicians and the mafia.

Prolific UK writer Anthony Horowitz, known for creating some of the most beloved TV series including Midsomer Murders, and has continued the careers of Sherlock Holmes and Ian Fleming with the third in his Bond series, With a Mind to Kill, recently published. He will take the stage to discuss his fourth book in the Detective Hawthorne series, The Twist of a Knife.

Master of suspense Linwood Barclay returns to MOTIVE with his twisty, fast-paced thriller The Lie Maker, about a man desperately trying to track down his father before his enemies can get to him.

CP24 crime specialist and retired Toronto detective Steve Ryan presents The Ghosts That Haunt Me, in which he reflects on six of the many cases in his career that greatly impacted him.

Bestselling crime and mystery writers will come together to connect through thematic conversations, including:

Canadian bestselling author Shari Lapena and the “Queen of Icelandic crime” Yrsa Sigurdardottir will discuss chilling family secrets in their thrillers.

YA writer Sheena Kamal and Ghanaian-American novelist Kwei Quartey will speak on their newest stories, featuring brave, bold women on a search.

Human rights activist and author Ausma Zehanat Khan joins writer and war veteran Kevin Powers on how crime fiction can be used to explore global issues.

Diné filmmaker and author Ramona Emerson and “Queen of French Noir” Johana Gustawsson will discuss their books involving spirits and black magic.

South Asian authors Vaseem Khan and Harini Nagendra will discuss the vibrant Indian cities featured in their latest work and how the political climate plays into their stories.

CRITICAL CONVERSATIONS
Each day, authors and experts will examine thrilling themes of the culture and politics that shape the world around us and the books we read. Presented in partnership with the Provocations Festival. Highlights include:

Bearing Witness, with legal scholar Kent Roach and journalist Tamara Cherry on complexities, issues and realities of reporting crime.

Cybercrime, with novelist Vaseem Khan and Cameron Field, vice-president at VIDOCQ, a firm that designs tailored investigation, intelligence and risk management solutions.

True Crime Histories, with Canadian authors Susan Goldenberg, Sharon Ann Cook and Margaret Carson, exploring how class, gender representation and prejudice lead to miscarriages of justice.

SPECIAL EVENTS
TIFA will host a number of thrilling special events throughout the weekend, including:

Newfoundland Noir: The Toronto launch of Perry Chafe’s Closer By Sea with his long-time creative collaborator, and fellow Newfoundlander, Allan Hawco (Republic of Doyle). This dual interview and kitchen party-style jam session includes live musical performances by Maureen Ennis of The Ennis Sisters, and special guests.

Anthony Horowitz on James Bond: internationally bestselling author will do a deep dive into the rich history behind the iconic James Bond series, including his own latest Bond novel, With A Mind to Kill.

Tea, Cake and Murder, with Jessa Maxwell and Amy Stuart: an afternoon tea and cake served with a delicious slice of murder as they dig into their latest books.

MASTERCLASSES
In these creative writing workshops, aspiring writers will learn how to craft compelling stories and bring captivating characters to life through hands-on lessons from industry experts. Some events include:

French-Swedish crime writer Johana Gustawsson explores character-building.

Podcaster and writer Catherine Fogarty will help transform true crime stories into unforgettable reads.

Author Melodie Campbell will show you how to kill with comedy.

American author Ryan Gattis offers immersive storytelling techniques.

TIFA KIDS
Engaging and inspiring young book lovers, TIFA will feature a special event for elementary and middle school students on June 2 to meet, hear and learn from UK author Anthony Horowitz about his bestselling YA series, Alex Rider, now in its third series on Amazon Prime. Ideal for grades 5–8.

FREE FESTIVAL EXPERIENCES
Alongside the event programme, TIFA offers an enhanced festival experience with a wide variety of free events and books signings for all audiences to enjoy at Harbourfront Centre:

Lunchtime Taster with Ryan Gattis, Johanna Gustawsson and Harini Nagendra: bring your lunch and enjoy a picnic with a taste of suspense with these celebrated authors.

Ask the Expert, with Margaret Cannon, Karen Sullivan and Bjarni Þorsteinsson about how to write and publish a crime novel.

Outdoor readings from numerous authors including Roxanne Bouchard (Whisper of the Seal), Daniel Kalla (Fit to Die), Marcie R. Rendon (Sinister Graves) and Jonathan Whitelaw (The Bingo Hall Detectives).

MOTIVE Bookstore browse the specially curated bookstore for your next favourite read, presented in partnership with Indigo and digital bookseller Rakuten Kobo.

DIGITAL SERIES
Additionally, three pre-recorded digital events featuring international authors will be available to watch for free all week long:

Scottish author Neil Forsyth on his captivating heist book The Gold, inspired the hit BBC drama coming to Canada in June.

Indian author Deepti Kapoor’s second novel, Age of Vice, part crime thriller and family saga.

British novelist Martin Edwards on The Life of Crime: Detecting the History of Mysteries and their Creators, the first major history of crime-fiction released in several decades.

This year, MOTIVE will introduce a Festival Pass, allowing attendees to explore as much of the Festival as they wish, with either a three-day pass ($64.99 – $99.99) or one-day pass ($24.99 – $39.99), including entry to all standard events. Premium three-day passes ($99.99 – $149.99) and one-day passes ($39.99 – $59.99) include priority entry to all standard events plus entry to date-applicable Premium events. A limited number of single tickets will be released for Premium events on May 23. Masterclass tickets are excluded from the Festival/Premium passes and are $49. MOTIVE’s free offerings include outdoor activities at Harbourfront, book signings and digital events to enjoy.

Visit FestivalofAuthors.ca/Motive to view the full programme lineup and to book passes.