A PLANNED appearance by former Carmarthen East and Dinefwr MP Jonathan Edwards at this year’s Llandeilo Lit Fest has been cancelled, despite growing praise for his recently published memoir Into the Abyss.
Mr Edwards, who represented the constituency in Westminster for 14 years, had been due to speak about his book on 25 April. The event had originally been billed as “a must for Welsh political enthusiasts” — and many local readers had welcomed the opportunity to hear directly from a man whose political and personal life has played out under intense public scrutiny.
But organisers announced on Tuesday that they had taken the decision to cancel the session, saying: “Upon further review, we believe that the nature and content of the recently published book are not aligned with the values and principles of our festival.” In a follow-up statement, they added: “The potential for harm and distress to some individuals mentioned in the book is too significant to overlook.”
Into the Abyss recounts the most difficult and controversial chapter of Edwards’ life — including a domestic incident in May 2020 that resulted in him accepting a police caution and stepping away from his role in Plaid Cymru. But far from attempting to brush aside the events, the book tackles them head-on with unflinching honesty.
In our earlier review, we described Into the Abyss as “a stark, emotionally raw account of a man confronting the lowest point in his life — not to seek pity, but to take responsibility.” Far from being a political memoir in the traditional mould, Edwards’ writing is deeply personal, exploring themes of shame, regret, and the long, painful road to self-understanding.
While the decision to withdraw his appearance has drawn support from some quarters, others have expressed concern that the festival’s move risks shutting down important conversations.
“It’s a powerful and uncomfortable read,” the review continues, “but that’s what gives it value. In an age where public figures often hide behind PR statements and half-apologies, Edwards has laid himself bare — and that deserves recognition, not rejection.”
Mr Edwards, who stood down at the 2024 general election, has not commented publicly on the festival’s decision. However, those close to him say the memoir was written not to cause harm but as a form of personal and public accountability — a chance to own past mistakes and reflect on what it means to rebuild after failure.
The book has quietly built a following among readers interested not only in politics but in the human cost of public life, and the toll taken by personal breakdown. As our review noted, Into the Abyss is “not a justification — it’s a reckoning.”
Organisers of Llandeilo Lit Fest stressed that they are “dedicated to curating a festival that upholds the values of inclusivity and literary celebration for everyone involved.” But for some, the decision to remove one of the most candid and introspective political memoirs in recent Welsh publishing history raises difficult questions about whose stories are allowed to be heard — and under what circumstances.
Into the Abyss which was co-published by Herald.Wales remains available from major booksellers and online.
