Epworth author publishes new book

A new book written by an Isle journalist features a character based on Bells former deputy editor Eddie Mardell.
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I Am Sam, which is due out next month, has been penned by Epworth author James Durose-Rayner and tells the story of retired professional footballer, Jon Sammels, who played 270 matches for Arsenal before signing for Leicester City.

A diehard Gunners fan, the 50-year-old explores Sammels’ roller-coaster career and sometimes rocky relationship with the fans, revealing his own and Sammels’ frustration at the politics of the game that contributed to the latter’s premature departure from what was, at the time, the top cub in England.

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Within the book is featured a journalist who is based on former Bells deputy editor Eddie Mardell, who also lives in Epworth.

He said: “Fame at last! Je suis Eddie and I’ve got a chance of national if not internation recognition. Long time coming but it’s well worth the wait.”

Mr Durose-Rayner, a member of Writers’ Guild of Great Britain and currently working as editor of a specialist civil engineering magazine said: “I am Sam has much in common with Nick Hornby’s celebrated novel about unconditional football fandom, Fever Pitch, and will similarly captivate readers from the devoted to the uninitiated.

“Ultimately it is a story about life, survival and redemption – all of which exist within just ninety minutes of football.

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“It’s a fitting tribute to one of Highbury’s greatest heroes.”

The first in a trilogy, I Am Sam (which is due to be published on February 10 by Clink Street Publishing, with an RRP £11.99 paperback, RRP £6.99 ebook) is available to purchase from online retailers including amazon.co.uk and can be ordered from all good bookstores.

Mr Durose-Rayner, who moved to the Isle in 2000 having originally been brought up in South Yorkshire, has written four other books previously entitled S63 - out in 2001, S5 Uncovered - due to be published in March, Moles - being published in July, and ITV 7 out in November.He has a two further works in the pipeline called 1984 and The Queen of Cups.

For more information visit the website james-durose-rayner.co.uk.

I am Sam has been put forward by the publishers for the William Hill Sports Book of the Year 2015.

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