August Books scoops podcaster Katie Charlwood's book on 'fallen women'

August Books has scooped podcaster and historian Katie Charlwood’s "Horrible History for adults". 

Executive publisher Martina O’Sullivan acquired world rights directly from the author. The book, tentatively titled Whores, Hussies and Harlots: The Incredible Lives of the Bad Women of History, is scheduled for publication in spring 2026. 

Charlwood’s non-fiction debut is an exploration of the "fallen women" of history, including Cleopatra, Anne Boleyn, Ching Shih, Gráinne O’Malley, Mary Todd Lincoln, Margot Asquith and Coco Chanel. The book will explore how "derogatory labels" have been used to control women. 

Charlwood is the host of the podcast "Who Did What Now?" which explores alternative parts of history. She commented: "We have been conditioned to view history through the lens of pale and stale males, which is not only narrow minded but frankly, really boring! When you look at these women without this antiquated perspective, you get to see them for who they are, not what they’ve been painted as." 

O’Sullivan added: "Katie is exactly the kind of author I love to work with on a topic I feel very passionate about. She knows her stuff and, more importantly, is able to communicate that expertise in a way that is entertaining, informative and funny which is all too rare a skill.  This book is emblematic of the history list I’m building at August Books and I can’t wait to share it with the world."