THOUSANDS of people are expected to descend on a Gwent town to meet top writers and enjoy a week-long cultural festival.
In two weeks' time, former mining town Blaenavon will be the centre of attention with the arrival of the national media and visitors from all over the world.
It's the second Blaenavon Booktown Festival since the one-time industrial powerhouse of the Eastern Valley became a literary attraction, and organisers say it will be "bigger and better than last year".
Spokeswoman Jo Wyborne told the Argus the town's 12 book shops will be buzzing with activity. Blaenavon Workmen's Hall will be the focus for workshops, talks, films and music throughout the week from March 1 to March 6.
"We've distributed 20,000 leaflets to Bristol, Newport, Cardiff, Swansea, Hereford and Brecon. Inquiries have been coming in thick and fast," she said.
Crime writer Andrew Taylor recently in the top 100 best-sellers with The American Boy, is leading a talk on the secrets of crime writing and thriller fans, along with would-be novelists, will be able to quiz him on technique and style.
Other big names on the bill include Phil Rickman, Bernard Knight and Rebecca Tope one of the writers behind TV crime series Rosemary and Tyme, and there is a screenwriting workshop with Neil Arksey.
Details can be found at http://www.booktownfestivals.com" target="_blank">www.booktownfestivals.com or 08707 601093.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article