Your vacation in Brittany wouldn’t be complete without a selection of books to devour, like a plate of seafood or a buckwheat pancake! We’ve put together a list of books for you to read at siesta time or take home as a souvenir of your vacation. Get ready to immerse yourself in captivating tales that blend perfectly with the Breton atmosphere: thrillers, historical or contemporary novels, comics, children’s books, there’s something for everyone!
At the heart of this thriller is the murderin Ste-Marineof Corentine Ledantec, a cantankerous octogenarian. The plot thickens when the main suspect, Julien le Floch, the victim’s grandson and drug addict, finds himself mixed up with a daring drug dealer ready to shoot the police.
An original aspect of the book is the central role given to three women – a forensic scientist, a specialized shrink and a policewoman with unorthodox methods.
With its fluid, dynamic style, this novel is an easy read. With its twists and turns and well-rounded characters, “Les Trois Brestoises” is a captivating whodunit not to be missed.
Genre: Thriller
In this first volume, we follow Edgar Spencer, an English retiree who has chosen to live in a remote corner of Morbihan to open a bookshop. Shortly after his arrival, an alleged suicide occurs, arousing Spencer’s curiosity. The village atmosphere, the clever dialogues, the subtle humor, all contribute to making this an enjoyable read.
Detective novel readers, if you’re looking for a well-crafted investigation with an engaging protagonist and picturesque setting, “Les enquêtes d’Edgar Spencer” is a must-read.
Genre: Thriller
In Vannes, Francis Gosiniack, an ambitious banking executive, is convinced he has evidence of financial malfeasance involving his superior. He sees an opportunity not to be missed and decides to buy his silence. However, fate intervenes before he can put his plan into action, when he is unexpectedly hit by a car. This captivating story is a blend of ambition, corruption and drama, with a dose of intrigue that keeps you on the edge of your seat until the last page.
Genre: Thriller
The first opus transports the reader to the picturesque village of Locmaria, on the island of Belle-Île-en-Mer. The story follows Catherine Wald, a dynamic woman from Strasbourg, who finds herself at the heart of a complex enigma in this bucolic paradise. Thanks to its fluid, captivating writing and a gallery of deeply engaging characters, this novel promises an immersive reading experience for all mystery fans.
Genre: Thriller
This novel takes us to the heart of Brittany, where two daring sisters run a guesthouse in a historic town house. Their lives are turned upside down when the mystery of a gruesomely murdered corpse is revealed. They then find themselves at the head of the Breizh Brigade, a group to which they will give a second life. If you’re looking for captivating intrigue, humor, suspense and twists and turns, this mystery-rich detective novel is a must-read.
Genre: Crime novel
This book will transport you to the wild beauty of rural Brittany in the early 20th century. Jaouen vividly depicts the power struggles, traditions and social upheavals of the time, bringing to life a bygone era. If you’re passionate about history, complicated family relationships and evocative descriptions of rural life, this book is a literary journey you won’t want to miss.
Genre: Historical fiction
This autobiographical book traces the childhood and adolescence of a small Breton boy from the Bigouden region, between the First World War and the mid-1930s. It describes the daily life of Breton peasants, their culture and traditions. Hélias reveals a bygone era with an almost photographic precision, rooted in authenticity and respect for his people.
With almost two million copies sold worldwide, this work has touched the hearts of many readers.
Genre: Historical fiction
Charlène, a recently divorced woman in her thirties, finds herself forced to move back into her parents’ house, a situation she finds unbearable. To escape this reality, Charlène concocts a story about a work contract on a picturesque Breton island. Her fictional mission? To write a book about the inhabitants of Broavel. In this profound and moving tale, the author explores universal themes of renewal and self-discovery. An inspiring read that leaves you wondering long after you’ve turned the last page.
Genre: Novel
François, manager of an equestrian center in Brittany, discovers a young woman injured and unconscious on the beach. Rather than leave her in the hands of rescuers, he decides to take her home for treatment. The woman, Elsa, wakes up with no memory and unable to speak. François and Elsa, both scarred by their pasts, begin an atypical cohabitation, imbued with silence, mystery and mutual attraction.
“La délicatesse du homard” is a work for those who appreciate stories of rebirth, resilience and love. It’s a deeply moving, finely chiseled tale that will take you on a journey through the beauty of Brittany and the intimacy of its characters’ hearts.
Genre: Novel
This moving story takes us into the daily life of Fanny, a beekeeper who has chosen to rebuild her life in Rennes. Despite her loneliness and fragility, Fanny is a woman of strength, hiding a deep secret wound. Despite her love of her work and the friendships she manages to forge, this secret wound hinders her happiness. In this poignant tale, we witness Fanny’s slow, painful quest for resilience. Winner of the Prix Jeune Talent Jeannine-Balland in 2022, this book is an invitation to reflect on pain, resilience and the search for happiness.
Genre: Novel
“Les Yeux couleur de pluie”, written by Sophie Tal Men, takes you into the life of Marie-Lou, a young medical student whose world is turned upside down when she is sent to Brest. Plunge into the heart of hospital life, where Marie-Lou juggles grueling shifts and poignant interactions with patients. But that’s not all! In the midst of these challenges, she’s swept up in a passionate romance with Matthieu, who adds sparks and emotion to her daily routine. This book is a whirlwind of emotions, blending the sweetness and exuberance of youth with the raw reality of the medical world. Embark on this human adventure and let yourself be touched by this captivating story!
Genre: Novel
“Un océan d’amour” is a charming and moving work. The story, as captivating as it is original, follows the journey of a determined Breton woman who, after her beloved husband disappears at sea, embarks on a maritime adventure to find him. Strangely, the book needs no words to tell this gripping story – love, fear, hope, determination, all are expressed through the power of drawing. Readers of all ages will find something to enjoy in this epic adventure. It’s a reading suggestion that also makes an ideal gift.
Genre: Graphic novel
This comic book immerses us in the history of the famous Ar-Men lighthouse, located off the coast of the Isle of Sein. This book invites us to travel through time, to discover the epic tales of the builders who braved extreme conditions to erect this lighthouse, and to understand the austere daily lives of the guards who watched over this stone titan in the ocean’s immensity.
Emmanuel Lepage’s sublime illustrations are a feast for the eyes, capturing the wild essence and raw beauty of this legendary place. On every page, smell the sea spray, hear the roar of the sea, and let your imagination sail off into unexplored horizons.
Genre: Graphic novel
Immerse yourself in this gripping, hard-hitting graphic novel that takes you to the heart of an investigation into the pollution of Brittany’s beaches by green algae. Browsing through its pages, you’ll witness a breathtaking tale, revealing decades of pollution, with whistle-blowers, scientists, farmers and politicians playing crucial roles in this environmental saga. The wealth of facts, the didactic approach and the density of information are skilfully interwoven in a narrative that is not afraid to unearth uncomfortable truths. It’s a must-read for anyone with a passion for the environment and a desire to understand the intricacies between ecology and politics.
Genre: topical comics
This comic reinterprets the mythical Breton legend of the Ville d’Ys, incorporating a new character: Rozenn, Dahut’s older sister. Her presence breathes new life into the traditional story, without distorting it. It features two princesses, sisters but diametrically opposed in their aspirations: one devoted to nature and wildlife, the other passionate about enchantment and the quest for paternal approval. With its dark mysteries and wild landscape, this comic book will keep you on the edge of your seat, while respecting the essence of the original legend.
Genre: Graphic novel
Follow the thrilling adventures of Hisse and Ho, intrepid twins whose summer takes an extraordinary turn when they embark on a round-the-world sailing trip with their parents! Navigating the waves aboard the Olympus, their first stop is marked by an intriguing discovery: an enigmatic lighthouse that lights up by itself every night, surrounded by imposing shadows. Armed with their curiosity, Hisse and Ho are ready to unravel the lighthouse’s mysteries. With captivating writing and magnificent illustrations, Anne Loyer takes us on a fascinating journey where exploration and wonder are at the heart of every page. Perfect for young readers aged 9 and over, “Hisse & Ho, tome 1: Le phare mystérieux” is a must-read for anyone with a thirst for adventure and imagination.
Genre: Children’s fiction
At the heart of this saga, follow Katell and her brothers, recently settled on the land of their late grandmother Maria, whose past is full of secrets. The mists of mystery thicken as Katell immerses herself in ancient Druidic beliefs. This book is a mosaic of family, folklore and the unknown, all wrapped up in Celtic traditions. Don’t miss this fascinating adventure that will take you beyond known lands, where legends come to life.
Genre: Children’s fiction
At the heart of this tale, you’ll meet Tino, a witty and imaginative young boy who lives on the mysterious island of Sein, off the coast of Finistère. In this place where time seems to stand still, Tino dreams of extraordinary events and exciting adventures emerging from the ocean waves – perhaps a majestic whale or an explorer in search of treasure.
This book delicately explores the depths of friendship, the twists and turns of solitude and the power of imagination. Let yourself be enchanted by the beauty of “Un caillou dans la poche”. The Isle of Sein awaits you!
Genre: Children’s fiction
“Gwenaël et la Baleine” by Christophe Boncens is a charming Breton tale for the very young. It’s the story of Gwenaël, a little boy who lives near a beach. One day, he notices a whale washed up on the shore, and a wonderful adventure begins. This book is part of the “Mes petits contes bretons” collection, which you can find in the author’s store in Pont Aven. Who knows? You might even get the chance to meet him!
Genre: Children’s book
Where can I buy books in South Finistère?
Let yourself be transported by the magic of literary Brittany, and take advantage of your getaway to shop at independent booksellers:
– In Quimper at librairy Ravy 10 r Providence or at “Librairie & Curiosités” 1 Bis r Toul al Laër
– In Concarneau at Librairie Albertine 5 Rue des Écoles
– In Locronan at the Celtic bookshop on Place de l’Eglise
– In Douarnenez at the Angle Rouge bookshop: 9 Rue de l’hôpital,
We hope you enjoy your vacation in Brittany, lulled by these spellbinding tales. Happy reading and happy vacations!
4* campsite with direct access to the beach between Fouesnant and Concarneau.
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