When she’s having sex with her boss, Iris likes to have the lights on so he can see how much younger she is than his wife. She likes watching her colleagues eat unhealthy lunches at their desk while her stomach aches with emptiness. She likes coasting at work knowing she’s going to land a big promotion anyway.
So why when it arrives does she find herself sprawled on her hallway floor, crying uncontrollably? Why, instead of a sense of triumph, does a crippling depression threaten to overwhelm her? Why does the support and stability of her family and friends feel so suffocating? And why, torn between her flatmate George – good, kind, reliable George – and cold, indifferent Patrick, does she only seem capable of making choices that cause her pain?
A razor-sharp, bleakly funny exploration of mental health crises, the societal pressures on young women, and toxic sexual and romantic relationships from one of the most exciting new literary voices. Perfect for fans of Sorrow and Bliss or Cleopatra and Frankenstein.
About the Author
Emily Slapper grew up in Northampton before studying Cinema and Photography at the University of Leeds. After graduating she moved to London to work in advertising whilst hoping to one day become a screenwriter. But wanting to write films turned into wanting to write books and so she started a Creative Writing MA at Royal Holloway. Everyone I Know is Dying is her debut novel. In her spare time she loves walking around South East London with her dog, Tina.
Industry Reviews
'I hope the lights are on when we finally have sex so he can see how young I am compared to his wife.'
'Sharp and uncompromising… Everyone I Know is Dying is a book that demands to be read' - Joe Gibson, author of Seventeen
'I read every page obsessively… sharp and witty and so delicately crafted' - Elvin Mensah, author of Small Joys
'An important, electric portrayal of mental health'
'Brutally relatable'
'One of the most powerful books I've ever read'
'Brilliantly written by an outstanding new literary talent'
'Words struggle to express the enormity and the power it holds'
'Raw, relentless, revelatory'