Thomas & Mercer snaps up two novels on Dublin drag scene from debut author Murphy

Thomas & Mercer has snapped up two books from debut novelist Kitty Murphy, which exploring “the glamour, energy and excitement" of the Dublin drag scene. 

Hannah Bond acquired world English-language rights to Death in Heels and one other title from Ed Wilson at Johnson & Alcock. Death in Heels will be published in November 2022, with book two following in 2023. 

Editor Leodora Darlington will work on the series and Helene Butler at Johnson & Alcock will handle translation rights. 

The mystery series centres around a fictional Dublin drag club called TRASH, populated by a diverse and colourful group of performers. After one of the queens is found dead outside the club, and with no interest from the guards, it is left to Fi and her best friend Mae B to investigate. 

Darlington said: “Kitty’s gripping new mystery series is a breath of fresh air. It’s not just filled with death, but life, too. You just can’t help but fall in love with its incredible cast of characters as you tear through the pages, waiting for the killer to be unmasked. I absolutely can’t wait for readers to fall in love with this cracking book as much as I have!” 

Wilson added: “Kitty writes with energy and passion about the things she loves in life, and Death in Heels combines all of them. It is quite a ride. She wants to do for the Dublin drag scene what Richard Osman did for plucky pensioners.” 

Murphy said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be working with Hannah, Leodora and the whole Thomas & Mercer team. I can’t wait for readers to meet the crew at TRASH: Thora Point, Mae B, Miss Merkin, Del Peen and Fi.”