As the summer sun mellows into the golden glow of early autumn, Brixham takes on a quieter charm. For book lovers, September offers not only the return to normal routines but also the perfect excuse to curl up with a good story, and few places are more inspiring than Brixham, both in setting and spirit.
A Town of Tales and Tides
Brixham’s rugged coastline, dramatic cliffs, and working harbour have long inspired writers, both local and visiting. The town’s literary connections may not always be shouted from the rooftops, but they are deeply woven into its fabric. It’s a place that feels like a story waiting to be told, and many have done just that!
Perhaps most famously, Agatha Christie found inspiration just along the bay. While her home was in nearby Greenway (now a National Trust treasure), the shadowy inlets and sleepy harbours around Brixham easily evoke the atmospheric settings of her mysteries. Indeed, Brixham is thought to have inspired aspects of her novel The ABC Murders, with its backdrop of coastal railways and seaside anonymity.
More recently, Brixham and the South Devon coast have appeared in contemporary novels and poetry collections that celebrate the town’s maritime heritage, shifting light, and tight-knit community. Writers like Kevin Dixon and Chrissie Parker have captured the unique rhythm of life here, blending history, folklore, and fiction.
Brixham’s colourful pirate heritage has found new life in Murder at the Pirate Festival, the debut novel by local author Abigail Yardimci. Inspired by the town’s famous Brixham Pirate Festival, the story whisks readers into the lively streets of the fictional Berryport, where young Paulie Trinket finds herself unravelling a murder amid the chaos. Released just in time for the 2024 festivities, it blends the charm of a coastal celebration with the intrigue of a classic whodunit. For book lovers, it’s a perfect mix of local flavour, vibrant characters, and page-turning suspense, an irresistible treasure for anyone who enjoys mystery with a strong sense of place. We highly recommend it!
Bookish Havens by the Sea
For those seeking a quieter kind of adventure, Brixham’s literary corners are worth discovering. The town boasts several charming second-hand bookshops, where time slows and shelves invite browsing.
The Nook is a small independent book and gift shop located at 38 Middle Street, Brixham, Devon, TQ5 8ER. It has a wide variety of books, including Devon-based fiction like The Retreat, written by Sarah Pearse. It’s open Mon-Sat, 10 am-5 pm, and Sun-10 am-4 pm.
Another Chapter, located at 13 The Quay, Brixham, Devon, TQ5 8AW, offers a selection of over 3,000 books to choose from. It’s a little gem that allows customers to discover the local stories, newcomers and the latest editions.
Then there’s the community-minded Brixham Library, which often showcases work by local authors and hosts occasional readings or literary events. During the back-to-school season, it becomes a valuable hub not just for young learners, but for curious readers of all ages seeking quiet study spots or their next favourite read. Click the link to find out their opening times, as it does vary.
Port Espresso is more than just a great place for coffee, they’re brewing up kindness, too. Through their inspiring book project, you can choose a book from the café’s collection and leave a donation to The Wave Project, a remarkable charity that harnesses the healing power of the ocean, the thrill of surfing, and a welcoming culture of acceptance to help children achieve things they never thought possible.
Whether you’re visiting for the sea air or have called Brixham home for years, the town offers a unique literary experience. From novels inspired by its shores to second-hand bookshops waiting to be explored, Brixham proves that a small harbour town can hold a vast world of stories. So, as September rolls in, consider making Brixham your literary companion. Bring a book, buy another, or maybe start writing your own!