Embla snares Smith's 'gripping' thriller debut

A “heart-racing” thriller, How Far Will You Go, by debut author Dandy Smith has been signed by Embla Books. 

In her first deal for the the digital-first imprint of Bonnier Books UK, editorial director Hannah Smith acquired world English language rights from Thérèse Coen at Hardman & Swainson. How Far Will You Go will be published in November 2021. 

Billed by Embla Books as “a gripping page-turner" and a "heart-racing" thriller, it was compared to the novels of B A Paris and Erin Kelly’s He Said/She Said (Hodder). “The debut explores the idea of how far you would go to fulfil your dream and live up to your perfect sister, and how well you know your best friend,” the publisher said. 

Smith said: “As I read through the manuscript, I found myself getting further and further lost within Elodie’s bad decision after bad decision. I felt my heart race faster and faster as she allows herself to be drawn into the ‘perfect crime’ to ensure she secures a book deal. A crime which consequently becomes far too real, far too quickly. From the moment I began Dandy’s book, I was mesmerised by the intricate story she’d woven, and found myself questioning my friendships for days. This is going to a be a thriller and an author to watch.” 

Smith, who is based in Bath and has an MA in writing for young people from Bath Spa University, said of the deal: "It’s an honour to be Hannah’s first author at Embla. With a treasure trove of energy, experience and enthusiasm, she is the perfect editor for my debut. As a devourer of true crime who's always been surrounded by strong, remarkable women, I'm drawn to exploring the complexity of female relationships in dark and suspenseful settings."

She added: "I'm so excited for Elodie and Ada to be released into the wild. Joining Embla feels like I’m standing on the precipice of something truly brilliant.”