Gollancz acquires Kuhn's 'twisty fantasy heist' debut

Gollancz has acquired M J Kuhn's debut Among Thieves, a "high-stakes heist novel set in a gritty world of magic and malice". 

Rachel Winterbottom, senior commissioning editor, acquired UK and Commonwealth rights, excluding Canada, from Saga Press at Simon & Schuster US. Publication is slated for 9th September 2021. 

The synopsis reads: "Ryia Cautella, aka ‘the Butcher’, has earned her reputation as the quickest, deadliest blade in the city— not to mention the sharpest tongue. But Ryia Cautella is not her real name. A deadly secret has kept Ryia in hiding, running from city to city, doing whatever it takes to stay one step ahead of the formidable Guildmaster – ruler of the five kingdoms. But even the most powerful men can be defeated. Forced to team up with a crew of uniquely skilled criminals to pull off an impossible job, if Ryia succeeds she wins her freedom once and for all. Unfortunately for Ryia, her new allies all have secrets and plans of their own."

Winterbottom said: "This is the twisty fantasy heist novel of my dreams. Full of morally devious criminals who come together in a found family with a dash of slow-burn romance and a unique magic system. Kuhn’s astonishing writing hooks you in with the first severed finger and her gang of criminals will steal your heart."

Kuhn commented: "I am beyond honoured and excited to have the opportunity to work with Rachel and the rest of Gollancz. Among Thieves is a twisty story of betrayal and redemption centred around six cons all working the same heist. From our first conversation, it was clear that Rachel understood my vision for Thieves, and her passion for this project fills me with an appreciation I can’t adequately put into words. I am so thrilled that Gollancz is providing me the opportunity to introduce UK readers to my team of lovable, backstabbing crooks."