Hey folks! The rain over the weekend had me and the kids up in front of the fire with our respective books. Okay, you've got me... kids were watching TV! Today we're shining a spotlight on three local authors, so grab a cuppa, settle in, and meet the scribes putting Leamington on the literary map.

Ben

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Leamington’s Literary Luminaries: Contemporary Authors Making Waves

Leamington Spa might not be the first place you’d expect to find emerging literary talent, but a handful of local authors are quietly making their mark on the contemporary writing scene. Their work suggests there’s more brewing in this Warwickshire town than just spa water.

Lottie Hazell: From Game Design to Literary Debut

Lottie Hazell isn’t just a novelist – she’s a multi-talented creative who’s made her mark in both gaming and literature. When she’s not crafting compelling narratives, she was the lead designer on the charming game “Dog Park”.

Her debut novel ‘Piglet’ offers a raw and intimate look at body image and social pressures, with portions of the narrative subtly reflecting the nuanced middle-class environments of Leamington and its surrounding areas.

Ania Bas: Experimental Storytelling

Ania Bas brings a unique voice to contemporary fiction with her novel ‘Odd Hours’. The book is a razor-sharp social comedy that delves into the life of Gosia, a young woman navigating the challenges of low-paid jobs, flatshares, and the quest for human connection. Bas’s writing is known for its dark humour and intimate portrayal of the struggles faced by young adults from immigrant backgrounds living in London.

The book has caught the attention of bestselling author Marian Keyes, who’s praised its innovative approach, saying “this wove a spell on me, by the end my heart was VERY full of love and happiness”. This summer, Bas brought her creative energy to Canley, Coventry, running writing sessions that inspired local budding authors.

Amanda Smyth: Historical Narratives with Depth

Amanda Smyth’s ‘Fortune’ transports readers to Trinidad’s oil industry, weaving a narrative that’s both historically rich and deeply personal. Her work has been longlisted for prestigious awards, and have appeared in The Times Literary Supplement, Harvard Review and have been broadcast on Radio 4! Her upcoming fourth novel, ‘Look at You’, is set to be published in 2025, promising another deep dive into complex human experiences.

These authors represent a quiet but persistent creative undercurrent in Leamington Spa. They might not be shouting from the rooftops, but they’re steadily adding depth to the town’s literary landscape. If you've read any books by these author's I'd love to hear your thoughts. Otherwise, see you on Thursday @ 8 am for our What's On list!