Trapeze signs blogger's running novel

Trapeze has signed a novel by Elle Spellman, a former book blogger and self-published author, after she approached the publisher on Twitter. 

Running Into Trouble follows three different women training for the marathon who are brought together by an incident in their local park. The story sees them "navigate grief, loss, divorce, new loves and friendships, motherhood, and of course, getting through a whole marathon".

Trapeze will publish Running Into Trouble in paperback and e-book in spring 2020, "in time for marathon season," the publisher said.

Kate Brown, commissioning editor at Trapeze, bought world rights, including those for film and TV, directly with the author after an approach from Spellman on Twitter. She said: “Elle has written a tribute to female friendship – full of heart, fun and wisdom – and the portrayal of nuanced, positive bonds between women is something I believe readers are hungry for, especially in this area of the market.

"Elle is a real talent, and I am so glad she got in touch through Twitter after I tweeted about looking for new voices. I am delighted that she has joined the team at Trapeze.’

Spellman, who now works for the Ministry of Defence in Bristol, said: "Training for a half-marathon was an adventure, made even more memorable with friends. I wanted to explore the possibility of an unlikely running club as they take on the challenge of a marathon, their new-found friendship, and the obstacles that life often throws into the mix. I'm so lucky to have met Katie, and to have the opportunity to work with the fantastic team at Trapeze.”