Harper Inspire scoops Emmett's tale of gangster redemption

Harper Inspire has scooped Michael Emmett’s account of how he moved on from life as a London gangster.

Affiliate publisher Rose Sandy negotiated the deal for world rights with Simon Brewer at the Simon Brewer Agency. Sins of Fathers: A Spectacular Break from a Criminal, Dark Past will be published in the UK on 12th November 2020 and the US on 22nd November.

Emmett explains how he followed his father, Brian, into criminality, resulting in his 1993 jail sentence for importing £13m worth of cannabis into the UK.

The publisher explained: “His life changed, when he was introduced to the Alpha programme in prison. Initially only going along to get some extra telephone time, given to prisoners who attended the meetings, Michael soon found himself taking a deeper look into his spirituality. He developed his Christian faith, which he credits entirely to turning his life around. He now works in partnership with Alpha and various prisons telling his story to inmates.” 

Emmett, who is writing the book with journalist Harriet Compston, said: “It’s really important for me to be able to tell this story, to put things right. It’s a story of hope. When I first met the team at Harper Inspire they understood the vision and I am grateful they’re the ones getting behind it.” 

Sandy added: “Michael’s story is so unique. The changes he has made to his life since leaving his criminal past are truly inspiring. Working alongside Harriet, Michael has found someone who truly understands his voice and will capture his journey authentically.”