Young writer remembered and his talent celebrated as his jointly-authored comedy hits the shops

The dedication in Legend Press’ latest novel Heading South, by Luke Bitmead and Catherine Richards, reads: ‘In memory of Luke, who’s talent, wit, drive and smile will be greatly missed but always remembered by everyone who met him.’

Heading South (in shops from 26th May) will be launched with a party at the Crockatt & Powell Bookshop on 24th May. Everyone there, including joint-author of the novel, Catherine Richards, will take the opportunity to toast Luke’s wonderful talent and celebrate the launch of this brilliantly-written, accessible, fun and unique dual-perspective comedy novel.

Luke is also the author of cult comedy White Summer, which was published by Legend Press last May (it was also Legend Press’ first novel published) before Luke tragically died in October, aged just 34. Legend Press, with Luke’s family, is continuing to push the work of the immensely talented young writer to ensure he gains the recognition he was due to receive. Royalties from the novel will support the recently created Luke Bitmead Memorial Fund, set-up to support fledging writers.

Luke came into contact with Catherine on the BBC Get Writing Forum and they wrote what became Heading South together, without actually meeting in person. They had challenged each other to write in the perspective of the opposite sex and the result is two interweaving parts which combine faultlessly to make Heading South a clever, light and vibrant comedy. The story unfolds as the male character, Nick, moves down from Sheffield to where the quirky, fun-loving Cassie lives in the sleepy Cotswolds and the reader is taken on an hilarious rollercoaster as ex-girlfriends, posh admirers, pets passing away and friends going into labour all put the skids on their potential romance.

Tom Chalmers, Managing Director of Legend Press, commented: “This is a perfect novel for the summer market – whether at home, going to work or on holiday. It’s a feel-good book packed with humour and the ups and downs of relationships and life – something that most readers will relate to in one way or another! While predominantly for the female market, it will appeal to readers across the board.

He continued: “What adds an extra angle is the unique story behind the writing of this novel and the way that the twin perspectives interweave perfectly even though the male part is written by a female author, and vice-versa. It is also great to be publishing more work from the hugely-talented and greatly-missed Luke Bitmead, who will no doubt be having a smile as this great book hit the shops.”

Heading South is expected to be widely-promoted and has been tipped as a one of the hits of the summer. It has also been subject to worldwide interest, and is expected to be published in numerous editions across the world.

The launch party on 24th May will include a reading from author Catherine Richards as well as a celebratory champagne reception and book signing. Many of Luke’s family and friends will be there to mark the occasion. Limited places for the event remain available, interested parties should contact info@legendpress.co.uk.

The book will be available on 26th May from bookshops nationwide and is also available to pre-order at a special half-price discount with free postage and packaging from Legend Press’s own online shop – see www.legendpress.co.uk/23301 for details.


ENDS


Pre-launch reviews:

'A sparkling romantic comedy which tells both sides of the story - both girls & guys will love it!'
Bestselling author, Deborah Wright

'The battle of the sexes? Or maybe just some hilarious misunderstandings between them!. The path of love never did run smooth and Heading South explores and delights in the problems Nick and Cassie have in getting together in such a funny and touching way that this novel is sure to be a big hit.'
Anna Goodall, editor of Pen Pusher magazine



Notes to editors:

• Catherine Richards is available for interview and comment. Contact details available on request to Legend Press.
• More details on the Luke Bitmead memorial fund can be found at www.lukebitmead.com
• Legend Press is the youngest-run UK trade publisher. For more information visit www.legendpress.co.uk or email info@legendpress.co.uk.
• Founder and Managing Director Tom Chalmers can be contacted on 0207 249 6901 or by emailing tomchalmers@legendpress.co.uk.
• Publishing Executive Emma Howard can be contacted on 01604 471474 or by emailing emmahoward@legendpress.co.uk.
• Legend Press’s other publications include The Remarkable Everyday, which sold in three countries and was placed on the WHSmith Short Story Bestseller List, White Summer by Luke Bitmead, which has received rave reviews throughout the UK, Salt & Honey by Candi Miller, which was placed in Waterstone’s 3for2, Heat’s top ten books and has received interest from 20 countries around the world, Seven Days which made an impressive mark in the short-fiction circles, and Journey by Jae Watson launched last month.
• Legend Press offers an online shop for its publications, regularly updated news pages and a free monthly e-bulletin packed with news, reviews and comment. To sign-up, simply email info@legendpress.co.uk stating your name and email address.
• Legend Press has also recently launched a MySpace page at www.myspace.com/legendpress
• Catherine Richards can also be found on MySpace at www.myspace.com/caaahferin