Lesley Manville to read Richard Osman audiobook

“Mum” and “Phantom Thread” star Lesley Manville will narrate the audiobook of Richard Osman's forthcoming novel, The Thursday Murder Club.

The book, out on 3rd September, was acquired by Viking last year in a seven-figure deal after a 10-way auction. Penguin Random House has described it as “the biggest debut novel deal for a decade”.

The “Pointless” host's novel tells the story of four friends who live in a retirement community and, led by a former spy, form the Thursday Murder Club to solve cold cases for fun. When a local property developer is found dead, the four find themselves in the middle of their first live case.

Manville, whose audio reading publishes simultaneously on 3rd September, said: “What a great read this book is. Brimming with fascinating characters, humour, intrigue and warmth. And of course a brilliant whodunnit.”

Osman added: “I’m beside myself with joy at the news. I haven’t stopped grinning since Lesley read the book and came on board.”

Film rights for the book have already been snapped up by Amblin Partners in a 14-way auction.