AN author is going back to where her love of reading began for the launch of her debut novel.

Treading Water, written by Allison Agius, tells of a woman trapped in an unhappy marriage who begins a powerful friendship with her new neighbour. The friendship opens her up to new possibilities, while threatening to destroy everything she clings onto.

The book will be launched at Crown Street Library on Thursday, and Miss Agius will read extracts from her novel at the event.

Miss Agius, a mother-of-two who lives in Darlington, has always wanted to be a writer and had her self-help book, Hidden Secrets Buried Treasure, published in 2002, but Treading Water is her first published novel.

"I am very excited that the launch of my first published novel is going to be held at the library. The staff have been extremely supportive," said Miss Agius, who has written five novels in the last decade.

"I've wanted to have my novels published for so long, so to be in this position now is just super.

"My love of books and writing started at Darlington library when I was a child so it feels appropriate that I'm back here now as an author.

"I spent many happy hours in the warmth and quiet of the reference library reading, and doing my homework. It was my sanctuary and, when I become a mother, I naturally enrolled my children."

The library has already bought copies of Treading Water for its reading group.

Those who want to attend the launch can go to Crown Street Library on Thursday from 6.30pm. Doors will close at 7pm for the event to begin. Light refreshments will be served and signed copies of the book will be available to buy.

Treading Water is also available to buy from www.amazon.co.uk