Emily Bullock’s début novel, The Longest Fight is to be published by Brighton-based independent publisher, Myriad Editions, in early 2014. It is the first signing for fiction editor Holly Ainley, who acquired world English rights from agent Ed Wilson at Johnson and Alcock.
Set in pre-and post-WW2 London, The Longest Fight ‘expertly interweaves the gritty, violent world of boxing with a startlingly poignant exploration of love and family loyalty. Drawing on influences as diverse as Graham Green, Sarah Waters and F X Toole, this is the story of one man’s struggle to overcome the mistakes and tragedies of his past.’
‘The Longest Fight is a beautiful and brutal début,’ says Ainley of her first acquisition. ‘Hailing from a family of South London boxers and inspired by her bare-knuckle fighting grandfather, Emily Bullock’s voice rings with authenticity. She proudly shines a light on the strength of relationships formed in this violent, ambitious, male-dominated world. A careful combination of historical research and a natural desire to open readers’ eyes to this moment in time make her an irresistible new talent.’
Emily has an MA in Creative Writing from UEA and teaches creative writing modules A215 and A363 for the Open University. She has been writing The Longest Fight as part of her PhD with the OU.