Literary Debut of Menton: How the City of Lemons Opened Doors for Riviera Authors
On July 18, 2026, under the arches of the Les Sablettes yacht club in Menton, an event awaited by local book lovers took place - the first Salon of Authors of the French Riviera. Ten writers from Nice to Tende presented their works, from novels to children’s literature. The event was organized by the association Les Plumes des Rivieras, created just six months ago by three enthusiasts.
🌊 Literary Renaissance Wave: Why Riviera Needs Its Own Authors
Against the backdrop of declining interest in print publications in France (according to the Ministry of Culture, sales fell by 23% from 2015 to 2025), the initiative of Menton enthusiasts looks particularly bold. “Our goal is to bring the audience back to reading through live meetings with authors,” explains Didier Obour, the association’s secretary.
- Participants’ geography: from Nice to Menton
- Genres: from thrillers to local guidebooks
- Format: informal communication + autograph sessions
“On a regular day, the author is left alone with the manuscript. We build a bridge between creators and readers” - Thierry Tevene, co-founder of Les Plumes des Rivieras.
📚 Who Are These People: Portraits Behind Book Tables
Among the participants are retired teacher Sylvie Buye, who wrote a children’s book about Marie Curie, and Natalie Artod-Ellis, whose autobiography caused a stir in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin. Special attention was drawn to Didier Obour’s booth - his novels about Tende allow you to literally “walk” through the pages, discovering mountain trails.
Number: 30 authors have already joined the association in 6 months.
🏛 Event Architecture: Why Les Sablettes
The yacht club, built in the 1950s, became the ideal venue:
- Shade from the marquee even in the midday heat
- View of the old port of Menton
- Acoustics that enhance reading aloud
“Here you feel the connection between the sea and the word,” admits Louisa Bontan, whose novels about Provencal fishermen sold 500 copies.
🤝 Solidarity Instead of Competition: Association’s Philosophy
Unlike major book fairs, an atmosphere of mutual support prevailed here. “When 10 rejections in a row are the norm, such meetings become a breath of fresh air,” shares Natalie Artod-Ellis. The association helps with:
- Editing texts
- Finding local publishers
- Organizing presentations
“We are not competitors - we are a team promoting the culture of the Mediterranean” - Bernard Laboro, president of the association.
📅 What’s Next: Plans for August and Beyond
On August 22, 2026, the second meeting with new participants will take place. Plans include:
- Attracting authors from neighbouring Italy
- Holding a debutants’ competition
- Creating a map of “Literary Places of the Riviera”
Insight: Negotiations on collaboration with the Lemon Festival in Menton - perhaps the next exhibition will take place among citrus installations.
✍️ How to Join: Tips for Aspiring Authors
The association is open to new members. Requirements:
- Residing in the Maritime Alps or Monaco
- At least one published work
- Willingness to participate in events
“Do not wait for inspiration - create it yourself,” advises Didier Obour. The next writing mastery workshop will take place on September 5 in Menton.
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Photo: AXP Photography / Pexels