Doubleday scoops 'exhilarating' novel-in-verse by Reid

Doubleday has scooped an "exhilarating" novel-in-verse by Louisa Reid, the YA author's adult debut.

Commissioning editor Alice Youell acquired world English language rights, including audio, for The Poet from Jessica Hare of The Agency. It will be published in hardback in June 2022.

The publisher said: "The Poet is a mesmerizing, provocative, pacey novel-in-verse about a young writer, her abusive older lover, and what happens when she is pushed to her limit. Set in the charged world of Oxford University, it is on the one hand a portrait of a toxic relationship, about coercive control, class and privilege; on the other–a passionate, page-turning tale of female solidarity, survival and revenge."

Youell said: "The heady cocktail of Louisa’s visceral language, the dark, propulsive narrative and an anger reminiscent of Michaela Coel’s "I May Destroy You" makes for an electrifying read–one that captivated all of us at Transworld. This is a book that vibrates with unspoken rage and fear, and is sure to start many conversations–about class, sexual politics and intellectual elitism. I feel extremely lucky to be working with Louisa; she’s an exceptional literary talent and The Poet is a thrilling addition to the Doubleday list."

Reid said: "It was a joy to write The Poet and I could not be more delighted that this book has found its home with Alice and the brilliant team at Doubleday. I hope readers enjoy the reading as much as I did the writing."