New Robert Harris novel set for August 2024 

Robert Harris’ next novel, Precipice, will be published on 29th August 2024.  

Cornerstone acquired UK and Commonwealth rights direct from Harris in a previous deal.  

Precipice is set in summer 1914. The synopsis says: “In London, 26-year-old Venetia Stanley – aristocratic, clever, bored, reckless – is having a love affair with the prime minister, H H Asquith, a man more than twice her age. He writes to her obsessively, sharing the most sensitive matters of state. 

“As Asquith reluctantly leads the country into war with Germany, a young intelligence officer is assigned to investigate a leak of top secret documents – and suddenly what was a sexual intrigue becomes a matter of national security that will alter the course of political history.” 

Hutchinson Heinemann said it is planning  “a far-reaching and ambitious marketing and publicity campaign”. Publisher Helen Conford said: “We are very proud to be publishing a new novel from Robert Harris. Precipice is the latest thrilling masterwork from a writer at the top of his game. Writing about a world on the brink, once again Robert throws light on our present time. A gripping story and a work of huge ambition, I can’t wait for everyone to read it.” 

Harris added: “This will be my 16th novel for Hutchinson in a very happy and productive partnership that now goes back 32 years. I’m so much looking forward to promoting Precipice next year, and renewing old friendships with readers and booksellers.”