Le Château des Livres

Le Château des Livres: Literature Celebrated in the Heart of the Val de Cher

Born in 2023 from the desire of a handful of enthusiasts united within the association Le Château des Livres, this literary fair has found its natural setting in the Château de Mareuil-sur-Cher, a historic residence nestled in the Cher valley, between vineyards and Sologne forests. The founding ambition is simple and generous: to offer a space for direct interaction between authors and readers in an intimate heritage setting, far from the major Parisian fairs, and to contribute to the cultural vibrancy of a rural territory rich in its heritage.

A General Fair Celebrating Literary Diversity

Each edition brings together about thirty authors with varied universes—novels, thrillers, children's literature, comics, poetry, essays, historical accounts, and illustrated books—for two days of signings, meetings, and exchanges with the public. The fair is distinguished by its friendly and warm atmosphere: authors are set up in the castle's rooms and gardens, offering visitors a literary discovery trail through the rooms and shaded paths.

The program includes themed conferences, round tables hosted by writers and book world specialists, as well as activities for young audiences: writing workshops, storytelling sessions, literary games, and meetings with illustrators. Live performances—musical readings, theatrical storytelling—punctuate the two days and add an artistic dimension to the event.

Strong Territorial Roots

Organized in partnership with the municipality of Mareuil-sur-Cher and the Val de Cher Controis community of communes, Le Château des Livres is part of a dynamic of valuing local heritage and the cultural development of the territory. The third edition, in 2025, put women in the spotlight and offered a family show in addition to the traditional signing sessions.

The fair benefits from the support of independent booksellers from the region who operate a pop-up bookstore on-site, allowing visitors to purchase the authors' works and have them signed immediately. A refreshment stand and light catering complete the offering for a convivial literary weekend.

A Free Event Open to All

Admission to the fair is completely free, in line with the association's mission to make literature accessible to the greatest number. Le Château des Livres attracts a family and intergenerational audience each year, loyal and curious, who appreciate the unique blend of architectural heritage, literary discovery, and village atmosphere.