Ayrshire author Alasdair Wham is set to launch his fifth book, 'Life is a Lie', with a special pledge to support a charity that has helped him through his own cancer journey. For every copy sold at the official launch, he will donate £1 to Ayrshire Cancer Support.
Launch Event Details
The launch takes place at Waterstones, Ayr, on Tuesday, July 14 at 7pm. Wham, a former science teacher and deputy head at Greenwood Academy in Irvine, was diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer. He credits the charity with providing invaluable support.
"Ayrshire Cancer Support helps people like me in many ways. I was invited to join a course on 'living with prostate cancer' and found it helpful to discuss my illness and prognosis with others in a friendly, supportive environment," Wham said.
Personal Journey and Motivation
Currently, his drug treatment has been successful, suppressing the cancer entirely. "Hopefully, for some time," he added. Wham, from Doonfoot, Ayr, explained that writing has been a positive outlet. "Writing is a great outlet for me and keeps me positive. This is my fifth novel, a hobby that is both creative and enjoyable."
He will donate £1 from each book sold at the launch and noted that Waterstones (Ayr) will also provide prizes and raffle them to raise additional funds for the charity.
Plot of 'Life is a Lie'
The novel begins in Arran and Kintyre, with other locations in south-west Scotland. The main character, Billy Baxter, is drawn into his uncle's criminal network, leading to the destruction of his life. When police reveal the truth behind his parents' death in a car accident, he agrees to give evidence. Placed in witness protection, he absconds. Retired detective Henry Smith, familiar from Wham's previous book 'The OA', is tasked with finding him. Smith's search uncovers police corruption, forcing him to choose between handing Baxter over or helping him escape.
Previous Works
Wham has also authored a series of popular books on Scotland's disused railways, documenting their history, incidents, and personalities. "My first explorations took place in Galloway over 30 years ago and now cover 'lost railways' from Galloway to the Borders and the Trossachs," he said. He has spoken about these railways on radio and at the Wigtown Book Festival.
