Pan Mac unites with TikTok creator and debut novelist Murray in two-book deal  

Pan Macmillan has secured Fling from debut novelist and TikTok creator Joseph Murray in a two-book deal. 

Editor Jayne Osborne acquired UK and Commonwealth rights, excluding Canada, from Marianne Gunn O’Connor at The Marianne Gunn O’Connor Literary, Film & TV Agency. Fling will be published in hardback in February 2023.  

“I read Fling in one sitting, it is the perfect romantic comedy for these times,” O’Connor said. “Joseph brings a fresh, fun twist on an age old story."

The publisher wrote: “Fling is the story of Tara and Colin, a Dublin couple. When they met sparks flew, but now, six years and several failed IVF attempts later, their marriage is hanging by a thread. When Fling, an app for anonymous affairs, is launched, both Tara and Colin find themselves logging on, just to see. But while Tara and Colin might think they’re done with their marriage, fate may have other plans . . .”  

Osbourne commented: “Joyful, heartfelt and truly laugh-out-loud funny, Fling has all the ingredients of a perfect romantic comedy. Like all the best rom-coms, even as it makes us laugh, it reminds us of something true and meaningful. Tara and Colin are unforgettable characters and their story is as sweet, funny and absurd as life itself. I can’t wait for readers in the UK, Ireland and beyond to meet them, and I’m so delighted to welcome Joseph to the Pan list, and announce him as a major new talent in the romantic fiction market.” 

Murray added: “I am beyond thrilled to have signed with Pan Macmillan. Their passion for Fling blew me away from the get-go and I’m still pinching myself that my debut novel will be joining such an iconic family of books. Having written Fling in my bedroom during lockdown, getting published seemed like a pipe dream but my gut told me to keep writing. When my agent Marianne Gunn O’ Connor showed me Pan Macmillan’s proposal, it was the life-changing moment I had always dreamed of. I hope people enjoy reading about Tara and Colin’s faithful (and fateful) affair as much as I enjoyed writing it.”