Mosse and McDermid among writers penning first new Marple stories for 45 years

Kate Mosse, Val McDermid and Elly Griffiths are among 12 writers penning the first new Miss Marple stories since creator Agatha Christie's final mystery 45 years ago. They are to be published as a collection by HarperCollins. 

A deal for world English-language rights was negotiated by HarperCollins UK and William Morrow in the US with Agatha Christie Ltd, along with representation for the contributing authors. The collection will be published simultaneously in the US and UK in September 2022.

The 12 original short stories will all feature Christie's legendary detective Jane Marple. Each author will reimagine Marple through their own unique perspective while staying true to the hallmarks of a traditional mystery. The stories will be the first new ones to star the detective since Christie’s last Marple novel, Sleeping Murder, was published posthumously  in 1976.

Other contributors to the collection include Naomi Alderman, Leigh Bardugo, Alyssa Cole, Lucy Foley, Natalie Haynes, Jean Kwok, Karen M McManus, Dreda Say Mitchell and Ruth Ware.

“It feels very exciting to allow this formidable selection of authors the opportunity to come up with new adventures and mysteries for Miss Marple. It is time for readers to rediscover Marple and I personally cannot wait to read the resulting stories,” said James Prichard, chairman and c.e.o. of Agatha Christie Ltd and great-grandson of the crime writer.

David Brawn, publisher of estates at HarperCollins, added: “The opportunity to celebrate the brilliance of Miss Marple with a book of short stories – not unlike Agatha Christie’s inaugural The Thirteen Problems (aka The Tuesday Club Murders) – was irresistible, and our authors reflect the very broad and international appeal of the character.”

Jennifer Hart, senior vice-president and associate publisher at William Morrow, said: “This truly remarkable group of authors showcases the extent of Agatha Christie’s influence over the last century. With Miss Marple, Christie gave a voice to women who were often overlooked, and we are deeply honored that these 12 writers have come together to pay homage to that ambition."