Florian Illies presents debut novel on Peacock Island (faz.net)

• Florian Illies' first novel, a historical fiction.
• Setting and story location is Peacock Island in Brandenburg.
• Published by new imprint Pfaueninsel, part of Bastei-Lübbe.

"On May 28, 2026, Florian Illies presented his first novel "Dreams of Fire" on Peacock Island (Pfaueninsel) near Berlin. The book tells the tragic story of alchemist Johannes Kunckel, who worked there in the 17th century. Illies read to about 70 attendees under an ancient oak tree, accompanied by peacock calls. The novel is published on June 1, 2026, by the newly founded publishing house Pfaueninsel, an imprint of Bastei-Lübbe. Illies' regular publisher S. Fischer approved this guest appearance."