PhD Candidate Zak Jones to Publish Debut Novel with Hamish Hamilton

October 22, 2025 by The Department of English

We’re thrilled to share that Zak Jones, a graduate of our MA in Creative Writing program and current PhD candidate in English, will publish his debut novel Fancy Gap with Hamish Hamilton (Penguin Random House Canada) in February 2026.

Described as "a powerful, unforgettable debut, Fancy Gap follows three estranged generations in Appalachia as they grapple with loss, poverty, and personal demons—until an explosive climax brings them together in apocalyptic deliverance."

The novel is now available for pre-order through Penguin Random House.