Local authors unite at the cracker fair

Last weekend I joined a group of eight other local authors to share a large stand at the Cracker Fair Christmas Market. Anglais et français, tous ensemble, and all talk of Brexit strictement interdit !

This annual event takes place in the historic Abbey of Valmagne near the town of Sète on the Mediterranean coast. Founded by the Benedictines in 1138, the abbey was taken over by the Cistercians twenty years later and remained in their hands until the Revolution.

It was saved in 1791 by a certain Monsieur Granier-Joyeuse who used the abbey’s church as a wine store. Enormous barrels over two metres in diameter remain in place to this day, but unfortunately for us writers, we were sent far from temptation to the cloisters. This turned out to be a blessing because it meant we could concentrate on selling our books in a beautiful, naturally-lit setting, and in the occasional quiet moment, enjoy the garden.

If you missed this year’s event, make a note in your diary for mid-November 2020.