LUKE BATEMAN SIGNS DEBUT FANTASY SERIES WITH ATRIA BOOKS AUSTRALIA

Simon & Schuster Australia imprint Atria Books Australia is excited to announce the acquisition of Luke Bateman’s debut fantasy series. A former NRL player, Bateman has taken the online book community by storm, amassing an enormous following on TikTok, where he shares his love of books and the fantasy genre. Anthea Bariamis acquired world rights in a two-book deal brokered by Sean Anderson and Tim Wall at 22 Management.

Bateman’s fantasy debut will take readers on an epic quest, exploring themes around love, conflict and redemption. Atria Australia is delighted to launch Bateman as a fresh and unmissable voice in the genre. Publisher Anthea Bariamis comments, ‘I’m beyond thrilled to be partnering with Luke on this wonderful series. Not only is he incredibly talented, he’s also a big book nerd like I am, and he knows the power of storytelling. I feel so lucky to be his champion as he begins his author journey.’

Author Luke Bateman says, ‘Since I picked up my first fantasy novel as a kid, I’ve been in love with the genre. I’ve always had a runaway imagination (much to the chagrin of mother, who tried to keep me on schedule) and have always dreamt of one day bringing my imagination to life. The fact that it’s now not just a dream, but a reality, leaves me in tears. I am beyond excited to bring the stories from my head and heart to paper. This series has lived with me for many years and has grown with me, side by side. I am so thrilled to be able to share it and become an author.’

Luke Bateman is a multifaceted Australian media personality who has seamlessly transitioned from the rugby league field to the digital realm. A former NRL player with the Canberra Raiders, Luke retired from professional sports in 2020 and embraced a quieter life in agriculture in Western Queensland. In 2023, Luke gained national attention as one of the bachelors on Network 10’s The Bachelors Australia. Following the show, Luke’s genuine charm and authenticity has resonated with audiences, leading him to become a social media sensation. Luke’s TikTok account, @lukesreads, where Luke shares his passion for books and reading, has amassed a significant following. He has also recently launched Luke Bateman’s Book Club on Fable. Beyond his digital presence, Luke is an avid reader, writer and poet, drawing inspiration from the vast country landscape he calls home.
Book one in the series will be published by Atria Books Australia in early 2027.