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Lightning Books has secured Sea Defences, the "lyrical" debut novel from retired teacher Hilary Taylor.
Publisher Dan Hiscocks acquired world rights directly from the author. Sea Defences will be published in January 2023.
“Sea Defences is a taut, lyrical novel which is extraordinarily accomplished by any standard, let alone for a debut author,” commented Hiscocks. “Hilary weaves the bleak power of the East Anglian winter into a searingly honest psychological drama, as gripping as any thriller.”
The novel evolved from Taylor’s short story of the same name which won third prize in the 2018 Bath Short Story Award. Sea Defences follows Rachel, a trainee vicar, whose world collapses when her six-year-old daughter goes missing on the beach. She is drawn into an unlikely friendship with Mary who is fighting for the survival of her home on top of the crumbling cliff top. Mary’s son, however, has a secret which will push the limits of Rachel’s vocation.
Taylor said: “After hearing from an industry professional that my age could be a barrier to publication, I’m delighted to find a publisher who sees the value in my work.”