Emmy award-winning writer Neville Frankel brings to light the well- researched family history that inspired his latest work of historical fiction, On the Sickle’s Edge. The author provides a rare, behind-the- scenes look into the fact-finding research into his ancestral roots dating back to Latvia, Russia and South Africa during the 19th and 20th centuries. The talk also sheds deep insight into the author’s creative process, as he discusses the delicate balance between integrating historical detail while remaining faithful to family lore. Given the heightened interest in Russia, the reading also brings to life the historical backdrop of Soviet-era Russia that has haunting overtones in today’s geopolitical climate.

Cape author Neville Frankel has written three novels: Bloodlines, The Third Power, and On the Sickle’s Edge. He received an Emmy for his work on Frontline/BBC documentary, The Mind of a Murderer: Part 1.