A librarian at Bedford Central Library has celebrated the release of her first book – and credits libraries with giving her a love of literature.
Georgia Bowers, who says she has been a member of the library for “longer than she can remember”, has published her debut novel, Foes And Cons.
The first-time author describes the book as “a love letter to cult TV shows, friendship, and fandoms”, as it takes place at a fan convention for the fictional television show Vampire Falls.
The book’s launch was celebrated on Saturday (27 June) at the Bedford Central Library and at town centre store Close Encounters.
The well-established comic shop has supported Georgia’s book by giving away free exclusive character prints created by local artist Thomas Andrews with every copy of Foes and Cons purchased.
“I have been a member of the library for longer than I can recall and still remember borrowing my first Stephen King novel (Carrie) from the mobile library when I was a teenager,” said Georgia.
“I’ve always been an avid reader, and after doing a fiction for young adults course, I got the writing bug.
“My inspirations for Foes And Cons were books I enjoyed as a teenager – Judy Blume, Point Horrors, and of course the novelisations of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, all borrowed from the library.
“My first novel, Mark of the Wicked, was released in the USA in 2021, but this is the first one to be on the shelves in the UK – including here at my own library.
“I don’t think I would be an author if I’d never joined my local library.”
Foes And Cons is available now from all good bookshops – and of course, Bedford Central Library.
Become a library member by speaking to staff at your local library during staffed hours, or online here.
