Thélyson Orélien wins the Fnac Novel Prize 2026 for "C’était ça ou mourir"

Thélyson Orélien continues his ascent in the French literary scene. His novel, C’était ça ou mourir, published by Grasset, won the Fnac Novel Prize 2026 on Monday, September 21. For its 25th edition, the award adds to the early accolades received by the Haitian writer who has been living in Quebec since 2010 and his presence in several major literary prizes this fall.

Released on August 19 by Grasset, C’était ça ou mourir triumphed over four other finalists for the award: Marion Brunet, Caroline Hinault, Claudie O. Wetter