Century snaps up 'gripping' murder mystery from Catriona Stewart

Century has snapped up Catriona Stewart’s "gripping murder mystery" and debut novel, People Pleaser. 

Publishing director Emily Griffin acquired UK and Commonwealth rights from Sarah Harvey at Creative Artists Agency (CAA) on behalf of Alexandra Machinist for publication in May 2025. "As an unashamed fan of reality TV dating shows, influencers behaving badly and thrilling murder mysteries, People Pleaser is my dream come true," said Harvey. "We can’t wait for readers to get their hands on it and are in no doubt that Catie has a glittering career ahead of her." 

People Pleaser follows Maggie, whose life is changed after she wins America’s most popular dating show. She has it all: a handsome husband, a Los Angeles mansion and an "entourage of glamorous friends". But when Maggie is found murdered, it is up to her sister Emma to discover the truth.

Griffin said: "People Pleaser  is at once a gripping murder mystery and an astute exploration of the murky depths of dating reality TV and influencer culture, which had me hooked from first page to last [...] Catriona is a hugely exciting new talent and we can’t wait for readers to become as obsessed with People Pleaser as we all are at Century."

Stewart added: "As a reality TV addict, I’ve always been obsessed with what goes on behind the scenes — who chooses to go on reality shows and why, and what happens after filming ends. I wrote People Pleaser to explore how these dynamics impact all sorts of relationships. It’s been incredible to work with Emily and the whole team at Century to bring it to life! Readers should know that People Pleaser is best enjoyed on a beach lounger with a glass of wine and, ideally, a good friend reading it at the same time so you can discuss."