Carole Hailey returns to Caper to celebrate the publication of her third novel: The Falling.  A fast-paced psychological thriller exploring the power of individual action and human connection within the context of the cosmos.  Cassie had an unconventional childhood, growing up with a father who spent all of his time preparing for the apocalypse. Instead of going to school, she had an eccentric curriculum at the kitchen table with her mum, and instead of going out to play, she either snuck off to see her beloved grandparents or went to the family safe space, a garage that had been sealed off and stocked with tinned food and emergency batteries. Now middle-aged and living alone, Cassie continues the rhythms of preparing for the worst, even though her dad failed to prepare for the slow-motion tragedy that became their family. But when an asteroid is located in the solar system, the chance of impact in northern Europe climbing every day, the worst finally seems to be confirmed. Cassie’s strange dad might just turn out to have been her salvation… ‘Life-affirming’ Cailean Steed ‘Completely captivating’ Alice McIlroy ‘One of the best books I’ve read this year’ Joanna Miller Carole Hailey completed a six-month Guardian/UEA novel writing course taught by Bernardine Evaristo, then promptly abandoned her career in law to undertake an MA in Creative Writing at Goldsmiths and a PhD in Creative Writing at Swansea University. Her debut, The Silence Project, was a BBC Radio 2 Book Club Pick, Waterstones Welsh Book of the Month and a Kindle No. 1 bestseller. Carole's second novel, Scenes from a Tragedy, was shortlisted for the 2026 CWA Twisted Dagger. Carole will be in conversation with Elizabeth Garner Unwaged or unable to pay for any reason? Contact us privately here and we will do our best to arrange a ticket for you.