Taylor’s 'dark and propulsive' psychological thriller goes to Penguin Michael Joseph 

Penguin Michael Joseph has acquired The Truth About Her by Annie Taylor, described as a “dark and propulsive” psychological thriller.

Editor Grace Long secured world rights in a two-book deal from Emily Glenister at the DHH Literary Agency. The Truth About Her will be published in paperback original, e-book and audio in June 2023.

The publisher describes The Truth About Her as “a gripping and voice-driven psychological thriller, with a laser focus on the complexities of female friendships".

It adds: “Set in the coastal town of Whitstable, it follows online influencer Vanessa Lowe. Vanessa shares all aspects of her life with her growing number of fans – from her gorgeous home interiors to candid shots of her beautiful children.

“When new friends Rachel and Callie come into her orbit, at first they’re in awe of Vanessa, who is every bit as genuine in person as she appears to be online. But when Vanessa’s youngest son goes missing, the cracks in her seemingly perfect veneer begin to show, and new friends and old enemies begin to question everything they thought they knew about her.”

Long said: “I’m incredibly excited to be launching Annie as a new voice to watch on our Penguin Michael Joseph crime and thriller list. The Truth About Her is an utterly addictive read, and I was immediately drawn to the multi-faceted and compelling female characters and voices, the page-turning writing, and the book’s jaw-dropping final act twist. Annie is an exciting talent, and The Truth About Her is just the beginning for her.”

Taylor added: "I am so excited to have landed at MJ – arguably the home of crime fiction and cannot wait to see what comes next. It feels like the absolute perfect place for me and the stories I want to tell, and Grace has already helped to make me feel right at home."

Glenister commented: “The first thing that drew me to Annie’s superb book, apart from her vivid storytelling talent, was the setting. Whitstable is so evocative and beautiful, and yet could easily conceal a myriad of secrets with all its quaint nooks and crannies. This is an addictive fast-paced thriller, perfect for the digital age that will have you questioning absolutely everything you see on social media.”