A new novella set in the Brecon Beacons and across Gwent has already caught the eye of filmmakers.

Darren Powis, a former reporter, has recently published his science fiction/horror story, The Talgorse Horror, and an independent film group has expressed interest in adapting it for the screen.

“As always in this business, there’s nothing definite yet, but the book has drawn enthusiastic interest,” said Darren.

Set in 1920 at a remote railway station in the Brecon Beacons, the story follows a young porter caught up in a bizarre struggle for survival when a storm strands passengers at Talgorse station. But the stranded travellers are not alone - an alien horror is lurking in the darkness, intent on hunting them all. Other locations in the tale include Abergavenny, Pontypool, and Newport.

Darren said he drew on his lifelong love of science fiction and horror, his knowledge of the local area, and an interest in local railway history. “There’s a rich vein of mythology, mystery and tales of the unknown in Gwent. Our hills, valleys and towns are ripe for setting tales like this,” he said.

The author cites influences including HG Wells, HP Lovecraft, Stephen King, and Gwent’s own legendary supernatural writer Arthur Machen. Fans of the Tom Baker era of Doctor Who will also find much to enjoy.

“I want to put storytelling back on the map and hopefully spin a few yarns that enthral and entertain,” added Darren.

Darren is already working on his next projects: a sci-fi novel centred on the ancient Twmbarlwm hillfort, and a collection of short stories about strange events in a fictional New Town, which may feel familiar to readers.

The Talgorse Horror is available on Amazon in paperback and as an ebook, with an audiobook version also in production.