A Spalding writer is due to have his second novel published today (Thursday, February 6).
The Hero Virus, written by Russell Dumper, is out now through The Conrad Press.
It follows the first in his eight part series of novels, The Britannia Series which has received rave reviews.
The Hero Virus is a gripping sci-fi action thriller, about a virus that produces mysterious powers in those infected.
It’s being described by reviewers as Contagion meets The Boys.
Russell said: “I finished writing this book in 2012, but we decided to release it, rather than the second book of The Britannia Series, to appeal to readers who did not wish to commit to an entire series of eight books.”
The Hero Virus follows the story of Chris Taylor, a man who is struggling to find a reason to keep going.
Life has a different plan for him, when he gets very ill and strange things begin to happen to him.
Russell continues: “The virus sweeps across the world, having a unique effect on everyone it touches…those that survive it, at least.
“The world has a very different type of pandemic to navigate. One where people want the virus. One where people will kill for it.”
Russell, who lives in Spalding, is a husband and father of two young children.
He will next be concentrating on the remainder of the Britannia series, with the next instalment due later this year.
The first book, Britannia Rises, won three Bookstagram awards last year.
“I had the idea for this story many years ago and had a final version ready back in 2012, but the COVID-19 pandemic made it seem like a good idea to get it out, dust it off and give it a re-write to modernise it.
“So far, I’m delighted at how well it’s being received by reviewers.
“I thought it was a good story, but am overwhelmed by how positive the response has been.’
The Hero Virus (RRP £10.99) is available from Amazon.
Russell is hosting an event at Spalding Library at 1pm on Thursday, February 27 where he’ll be reading extracts from the book, answering questions and signing copies.
