Michael Joseph falls for ‘horromantasy’ from debut author Danai Christopoulou

Michael Joseph has fallen for a “bewitching horromantasy” Vile Lady Villains, from debut author Danai Christopoulou. 

Jorgie Bain, assistant editor, acquired world rights, excluding Swedish and Greek, from Lauren Bieker at FinePrint Literary Management for publication in March 2026. Bieker called the novel a “masterpiece”, adding: “I hope this book encourages readers to never allow someone else to define you and if they try, stab your way out of it and into the arms of someone worthy of your story.” 

Vile Lady Villains brings together Lady Macbeth and Klytemnestra in a “tale of female rage, world-burning sapphic romance and knives-to-throat action”. When Lady Macbeth asks the Fates for help, she is thrown into the “realm of stories” where Klytemnestra is exacting revenge upon her husband. Together, they must work together against the rulers of the realm while resisting their feelings for each other. 

Bain commented: “I was transfixed by both Danai’s ability to write such poetry within a propelling story line and the absolute heart-wrenching love that blossoms between two captivating women. It’s everything you’d want in a read: deliciously high stakes, characters that you would follow into the dark night, and a deeper message for all our lady villains out there. Danai is an exciting talent, and I can’t wait for its release.”

Christopoulou added: “This book is my ode to the ancient myths and theatre plays I grew up with in Greece, as well as a way to channel my rage towards a world that loves to cast powerful women as villains. I’m honoured that Jorgie and Penguin Michael Joseph believe in my murderous sapphics as much as I do – I couldn’t have imagined a better home for them.”