Writer Antonia Apostolova Presented Her New Novel to the Bulgarian Community in Belgium
18 November 2025 News
On 14 November 2025, the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Brussels hosted an inspiring literary evening with Bulgarian writer Antonia Apostolova, who presented her latest novel “Pain Comes Later” (Janet 45 Publishing, 2025).
The discussion was moderated by Rada Gankova – translator and founder of the literary club “Notes Under the Pillow” in Brussels.
Antonia Apostolova, author of four books and recipient of numerous prestigious literary awards, is known as a writer, editor, reviewer and literary consultant. She is also the creator of the literary website “Literary Conversations”.
Her new novel “Pain Comes Later” is a sweeping family, love and philosophical saga that reinterprets three fundamental biblical stories through a contemporary narrative. Among the themes explored in the book are parenthood, sexuality, belonging, personal growth, loss, human choice and love – sometimes possible only elsewhere.
The event was organized jointly by the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Belgium, the Bulgarian Cultural Association in Belgium, and the publishing house Janet 45. It brought together representatives of the cultural and literary communities, the Bulgarian diaspora, and admirers of contemporary literature.
The evening opened with welcome remarks by Mrs. Veneta Zayakova, Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in the Kingdom of Belgium, and Mrs. Tatyana Staneva, President of the Bulgarian Cultural Association.
The atmosphere throughout the event was exceptionally warm, welcoming and conducive to meaningful conversation. The audience engaged with great enthusiasm, asking questions and participating actively in the discussion, turning the evening into a genuine dialogue between the author and her readers. The excitement and involvement of the attendees created a strong sense of community and belonging — values that literary gatherings such as this one continue to cultivate and promote.
The event concluded with a book signing and informal conversations, while the numerous positive reactions from the guests confirmed the strong interest in contemporary Bulgarian literature and the importance of such cultural initiatives for the Bulgarian community in Belgium.
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