15 Dec 2022

Escape into the world of books this winter with the Book Council of Wales and Cambrian Railway’s latest literary venture.

With novels by best-selling authors from around the world, the free books scheme invites passengers along the Cambrian line to enjoy a short story on their next train journey. From dystopian dramas to coming of age love stories, travel adventures and emotional real-life tales, the Quick Reads programme features a series of books typically under 100 pages long.

This year sees the addition of four new titles to the series, including two new Welsh language titles – Un Noson and Dau Frawdm Dwy Gem: Stori’r Carabangos.

Check out some of the incredible books available below:

Return to the Sun by Tom Anderson

A surf-obsessed brother and sister embark on a journey in a camper van. The van was given to them by their father Geoff, and his last request was that his son and daughter take the van to Morocco, via France and Spain. Their goal is to find its seventies owner.

Un Noson by Llio Elain Maddocks

 A lively novel for unwilling readers and anyone who enjoys a contemporary, light-hearted story! The story follows two main characters, Jacob and Cadi, as they prepare for a friend's wedding. Beginning seven days prior to the wedding, the story follows the preparations until the big day itself.

The Replacement Centre by Fflur Dafydd

Set in a slightly alternative reality, when a husband or wife in the community dies the grieving partner can get a replacement; they get to choose one who looks similar and feels similar. But there is a mystery surrounding where the replacements come from and if they are content to play this role. Or are they instead planning an escape?

Dau Frawdm Dwy Gem: Stori’r Carabangos by Dylan Ebenezer

Ben and Theo Cabango are two mixed-race brothers from Cardiff, and both are rising stars in the sporting world. Ben plays football for Swansea FC and has been included in the Welsh team squad, while the younger brother, Theo is a promising rugby player. We follow their stories through four different perspectives - the two brothers and their parents.

Books are available at Aberystwyth and Machynlleth stations and can be returned at the end of your journey or kept to be enjoyed in the future. 

Next time you’re on the Cambrian Line, make sure to stop by and explore the world from the comfort of your train seat.

Book synopsis have been provided by Books Council of Wales