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Immerse yourself in the thrilling debut novel by acclaimed author S. J. Clarke.
Nong, a young Thai boxer, faces the ultimate challenge of realising his dream to compete at Lumpinee, the renowned boxing arena in Bangkok. Set against a backdrop of treacherous friends, temptation, and the harsh reality of poverty, this gripping tale unfolds with a blend of magic and brutal realism, portraying acts of kindness, courage, pain, and bravery that define his world.
Ringside Gamble has garnered accolades for its authentic depiction of the underworld of Thai boxing and the resilience required to be a fighter. This action-packed novel takes readers on an uplifting journey that lingers long after the final bell rings.
Book Authority (as seen on CNN and Forbes) says, “Ringside Gamble is highly recommended for readers of all ages."
"An exciting and realistic depiction of the underworld of Muay Thai and what it takes to be a Muay Thai fighter."
Aphidet Joy Chaithet, former Muay Thai Champion Thailand, National Coach Singapore and Head Trainer, BXG Boxing and Fitness
"S. J. Clarke's Ringside Gamble is a must-read, seamlessly blending myth, magic, and the cultural significance of Muay Thai boxing."
Dr Budi Miller, Actor, Artist, Teacher and Co-Artistic Director, Theatre of Others
"The story of childhood friends Nong and Sert will stay with you for a long time."
Diana Campillo, Owner, Rawai Muay Thai, Thailand
"A well-known line reminds us that the size of the fight in the dog is more relevant than the size of the dog in the fight, and there's plenty of fight in S. J. Clarke's Ringside Gamble. Here is a coming-of-age story of Muay Thai boxers that never stoops to being a mere coming-of-rage story. Like many of our fights, the hero's real battles here are those in his own uneasy heart."
Professor Darryl Whetter, author of the climate-crisis novel, Our Sands (from Penguin)
"...This gripping saga invites readers into the heart of stifling arenas and sacred temples, where the line between the natural and the mystical becomes hazy. Clarke expertly delves into the close-knit community supporting the solitary fighter in the ring, shedding light on the sacrifices and triumphs that pave the way to glory."
Adam Marple, Assistant Professor in Directing, American University Cairo
Photo Credit: Josef Hlavka, shortlisted for Sony World Photography Awards 2023
About
S. J. Clarke is a British-born entrepreneur, author and educator. Since 2011 she has lived in Singapore. Clarke has extensive corporate and entrepreneurial experience, including managing global marketing and communications for the world’s leading financial technology brands, and founding companies.
Ringside Gamble is her first novel.
Clarke was the recipient of the 2014 La Salle Incubator Fund Award and steered the advisory practice of the Singapore Institute of International Affairs. A former advisor to the board of the Substation, Singapore, a leading contemporary arts platform, she has curated conferences and exhibitions in the visual arts and poetry. Clarke taught Central Asia Art History at the La Salle (University of Arts, Singapore).
A prolific writer, Clarke has completed assignments in the Middle East and Central Asia; travelling to Iran, Oman, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. And, she's currently working on her next book, which is due to go out on submission in 2025.
Ringside Gamble, on its release in November 2023, instantly hit the number one spot in Asian Literature and bestselling books for fantasy, combat sports, and young adult literature.
Clarke holds master’s degrees from the University of Barcelona (International Finance and Commerce), University of London (Modern Asian Art Histories) and a B.A. (Hons.) majoring in Economics and Politics.
She is a keen sportswoman and practitioner of Thai boxing and is married with two rescue dogs.
S. J. Clarke is a British-born entrepreneur, author and educator. Since 2011 she has lived in Singapore. Clarke has extensive corporate and entrepreneurial experience, including managing global marketing and communications for the world’s leading financial technology brands, and founding companies.
Ringside Gamble is her first novel.
Clarke was the recipient of the 2014 La Salle Incubator Fund Award and steered the advisory practice of the...
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