Clift’s dystopian thriller I Alone Survive picked up by Hodder

Hodder & Stoughton has pre-empted the “exhilarating” début novel from Bethany Clift in a two-book deal. Women’s fiction publisher Kimberley Atkins bought UK and Commonwealth rights from Cara Lee Simpson at Jonathan Clowes.

Out in 2021, I Alone Survive tells the story of a woman in her mid-thirties who has spent her life being what other people want her to be. But when a global pandemic decimates the rest of the human race, she is forced to find independence in a world she is ill-equipped to deal with. 

Atkins said: “This is an unforgettable novel that is at turns funny, terrifying and heartbreaking, while remaining utterly compelling. The narrator is one of the most unflinchingly honest characters I’ve ever encountered.”

Clift, a graduate of the Northern Film School who has had screen projects in development with the BBC, said: “I couldn’t have found a better home, and I can’t wait to start on the publishing journey with Kimberley and the team.” Simpson added: “We were won over by the enthusiasm of Kimberley and the team, and their ambitious plans for the book. Hodder is its perfect home.”