Bep is a new novel in Maltese that relates the relationship that develops between two men. Nicky is a librarian in a Centre that works against sexual discrimination and Beppe is a musician. Beppe encounters Nicky when he seeks help at the Centre in his coming out. In spite of the passionate love story that develops between these two men, their fears and issues still get in the way, leading to an unexpected finale.

Bep is one of the first gay-themed novels in Maltese literature, filling the gap of gay literature which is still absent in our country. The novel depicts gay life in the local social context, posing the difficulties and the dynamics that are part and parcel of a gay relationship.

Bep is the third work published by Tyrone Grima. His first work was called Celibacy, a story about a priest faced with the challenges of the vow of celibacy. Last year Mr Grima, together with Justin Schembri, published a collection of short stories called Frekwenzi Hiemda, which has been converted to a screenplay and will be aired on national television as from April. Horizons are the official publishers of Bep.

The launching of the novel Bep will be held on Friday, 25 October at Tom’s Bar, Crucifix Hill, Floriana at 9pm.