New Release
My latest book, Dead Straight Line, looks at a topic that has long fascinated me – the risks that young men take.
It was born from personal experience, when I took a risk when I was much younger, and things turned out very badly indeed.
The story explores the repercussions of a risk that goes horribly wrong for the protagonist, Rory.
It looks at the importance of friendship and trust. How difficult they are to find, and how easy they are to lose.
Dead Straight Line is out on April 9th 2026.
REVIEWS
Seven Million Sunflowers
Sunday Times Children's Book of the Week
“A memorable, moving, powerful book.”
​
​
“
Seven Million Sunflowers
Claire Hennessy, The Irish Times.
“
Seven Million Sunflowers
“Written in attention-grabbing style — a potently direct first-person narrative with poetic impact — Seven Million Sunflowers is charged with empathy and utterly un-put-down-able.”
LoveReading4Kids
“
Seven Million Sunflowers
“Gripping from the opening pages…an empathetic reminder of how others can help.”
Irish Examiner
Read Between the Lies
Sunday Times Children's Book of the Week
“
Read between the Lies
Read Between the Lies is a riveting, read-in-one-sitting page-turner, sharing insights into dyslexia as it also explores family frictions and how to support the people around you.
“
Read between the Lies
“Written with humour and empathy, this is a compelling read, one that I really wanted to read in one sitting to see how the dynamics between the two boys played out to the end. Malcolm Duffy writes with authority on the subject of dyslexia and I think this novel will be one that many dyslexics can relate to.”
“
Read between the Lies
'A grippingly unfolding domestic drama... The book's two engaging narrators learn and teach the value of empathy with others'
Joanne Owen
Sharon Bolton, School Librarian
Nicolette Jones.
Irish Examiner.
“
‘Fantastic. The perfect balance of heartfelt story and gritty plot. Totally absorbing.’
The Book Activist.
“
‘I loved Sofa Surfer so much. It was a thoughtful, well developed and interesting discussion around homelessness.’
Nicole,
A beautiful Chaos.
“
‘Author Malcolm Duffy has written a near-perfect novel that I found exceptionally touching.’
Whispering Stories.
Sofa Surfer
Sofa Surfer
Sofa Surfer
“
Me Mam. Me Dad. Me
An assured debut..... Danny's honest distinctive voice brings humour and hope'
“
Me Mam. Me Dad. Me
'Stories like Danny's are important. Duffy explores the themes of domestic violence, isolation and growing up with sensitivity, energy and heart'
“
Me Mam. Me Dad. Me
'A powerful tale of filial love when domestic violence gets in the way. An unforgettable central character and a truthful ending make for a truly impactful read.'
Fiona Noble,
The Bookseller
Armadillo
The Bookbag
BIO
Malcolm was born and bred in Newcastle upon Tyne. After a typical Geordie childhood, his parents moved south and deposited him in South East England. Having acquired a Law degree at Warwick University he worked his way through a host of London advertising agencies, picking up numerous awards for copy, press, TV and radio.
Having left ad-land he worked as Creative Director of Comic Relief, creating campaigns for Red Nose Day and Sport Relief. It was at Comic Relief that he was inspired to
write his first novel, Me Mam. Me Dad. Me.
​
He’s supported in his efforts by his New Zealand wife, Jann, and daughters Tallulah and Tabi.
VISITS
Although I’m a little too old for class, I’m happy to go back to school to discuss my books or host a creative writing session.
​
I love tackling difficult topics, and bringing them to
life with stories that are engaging, memorable, and entertaining.
I’ve visited schools the length and breadth of the country, as far south as Jersey, and as far north as Edinburgh.
I’m often up in Newcastle visiting relatives and, as some of my stories feature Geordie characters, I love visiting schools and bookshops in the North East.
​
You can find out more information about my visits at:
authorsalouduk.co.uk/speaker/malcolm-duffy
Joseph Humphreys, Librarian,
Surbiton High School
Helen Cleaves,Librarian
Ibstock Place School
"I’ve worked with Malcolm for four years and have only positive feedback. His talks are entertaining, engaging and thought-provoking; not least because his writing tackles contemporary difficult issues – homelessness, domestic violence, war – in what feels like an authentic way, based on Malcolm’s personal witness. It is clear that he knows his stuff and has compelling back stories behind his books which add to the authenticity – critical for winning over sceptical teenagers.”
David McLaughlin.
English Teacher.
Walker Riverside Academy
"It was a pleasure to host Malcolm Duffy this morning! Year 8 were treated to a talk with their 'favourite author' as they enjoyed hearing the story behind the author and how Malcolm came up with the ideas for his books.
Thanks again for coming into school. We can't wait to have you back."
"The stimulating and topical themes of Malcolm’s novels are made accessible to all through his personable and engaging talk. Each time he has visited us has been a huge success!"