In the world of books, fiction is having something of a moment. Sales are at a record high, whether readers are buying books in print, listening to an audiobook or snuggling up with their Kindles.
A whole host of reasons have been explored for this phenomenon. It’s true, for example, that more of us than ever are escaping into fantasy or romantasy (just as it sounds: romance crossed with fantasy), often viewed as a response to our volatile world. Crime novels and thrillers, with their penchant for resolution, perhaps fall into the same category. Online channels like Book-Tok are playing their part in driving big fan bases. Short form novels and short stories are experiencing a resurgence.
Whatever the reasons, it’s heartening that stories remain at the heart of people’s lives. And, at this year’s Monty Lit Fest, we invite you to immerse yourself in some of the best, whatever your favourite authors or genres.
We’re delighted to welcome back to the Festival the phenomenon that is Sophie Hannah, the award-winning thriller writer also known for her Hercule Poirot novels and her poetry. Hers is a fascinating and varied writing life that will be well worth hearing about.
We’ll also be hearing from top author Cynan Jones, who will be talking us through his latest short story collection with Anthony Shapland, whose own book, A Room Above a Shop, was crowned Waterstones Welsh Book of the Year last year.
We all loved Siân Hughes’s debut novel, Pearl, so it’s a real treat to have her back with us to talk about her latest book, No Such Thing as Monday. We’ve been passing this one around the Lit Fest Committee for a while, and we can heartily recommend it.
Another debut that has struck a chord with us – and many, many others – is Elizabeth O’Connor’s Whale Fall, so we’re delighted to welcome her to Monty Lit Fest to meet her in person – and, hopefully, to find out what might be coming next.
And, if writing in Welsh is your thing, our very own Myfanwy Alexander will be talking about her latest novel, Cath Fenthyg.
So, who will you choose? One thing is certain: we’re very happy indeed to be doing our bit to keep fiction up front and centre in what we like to read.
Tickets for all sessions are available online or in person from The Montgomery Bookshop and Ivy House Café in Montgomery.