May 2015 Debut of the Month Thirteen year old Bully, real name Bradley, has chosen to live on the streets rather than at home with his sort-of step-father after his mother dies. It’s a miserable existence, and he’s a prey to thug Janks, who ‘taxes’ all the homeless, taking any money they might have earned. Then Bully discovers that the lottery ticket that was his last present from his mum is a winner, and he’s due millions of pounds. But he’s only got days left in which to claim his money, and Janks is out to get the ticket too. Bully is a convincing and sympathetic hero and it’s impossible not to be gripped by the story and the challenges he faces. This is a great read for readers who like tense, gritty contemporary thrillers. ~Andrea Reece
A fast-moving and gripping thriller with a powerful emotional engagement; this is a young boy's story of loss and unbearable hope as he survives on London's streets.Reminiscent of Slumdog Millionaire, this contemporary adventure story set on the streets of London follows a boy whose luck is about to change. Since his mother's death, Bully has lost his old life. Living rough with his dog, Jack, he can't imagine his future. But one day, in the last birthday card she ever gave him, he finds a winning lottery ticket, a last gift from his mum that suddenly offers such hope. If only he can get to his prize on time. Life is not that simple. Bully's struggle to survive has just got a whole lot harder. They're after him on the streets, everyone wants a piece of him. And even if he does claim all that money, will he really be winning what he needs the most?
Michael Byrne is a former English teacher and taxi driver who now works as a full-time author. Lottery Boy is his first novel. Michael lives with his teenage daughter in Hampshire.
