She felt their eyes, all those executioners... Enter a world where, watched by millions, prisoners fight like gladiators for the ultimate prize: their freedom. SHORTLISTED FOR THE WATERSTONES DEBUT FICTION PRIZE 2023SHORTLISTED FOR THE NATIONAL BOOK AWARD 2023'The new maestro of dystopian lit has arrived' WIRED'America's new Hunger Games' SUNDAY TIMES'Criminally entertaining'GUARDIANWelcome to Chain-Gang All-Stars, the popular and highly controversial programme inside America's private prison system.

In packed arenas, live-streamed by millions, prisoners compete as gladiators for the ultimate prize: their freedom. Fan favourites Loretta Thurwar and Hamara 'Hurricane Staxxx' Stacker are teammates and lovers. Thurwar is nearing the end of her time on the circuit, free in just a few matches, a fact she carries as heavily as her lethal hammer.

As she prepares for her final encounters, as protestors gather at the gates, and as the programme's corporate owners stack the odds against her - will the price be simply too high?A FINANCIAL TIMES BEST BOOK OF 2023'A pure fire page turner' MAX PORTER'Electrifying' GEORGE SAUNDERSREADERS CAN'T STOP TALKING ABOUT THE BOOK OF 2023:'I've waited my whole life for a sapphic Hunger Games!''An explosive page-turner that's also a chilling social commentary.''This novel is alive and glorious. Give it all the awards.''Had me cheering and weeping, unable to tear my eyes from the page.''A masterpiece that packs a mighty punch.'