Transworld pre-empts Tanya Sweeney's 'chilling' novel in six-figure deal

Transworld has pre-empted Irish Independent journalist Tanya Sweeney’s Esther is Now Following You in a six-figure pre-empt. 

Finn Cotton, Bantam fiction editorial director, acquired UK and Commonwealth rights in a two-book deal from Marianne Gunn O’Connor at Marianne Gunn O’Connor Literary and Film/TV Agency. The first book in the deal will be published in spring 2026. "Esther is Now Following You is both a genuine thrill ride—the all-too-believable nightmare spiral of Esther’s mental state—and something with a real humanity and generosity at its heart," said Gunn O’Connor. 

Pitched as "Baby Reindeer" but from the stalker’s perspective, Esther is Now Following You is a "funny, suspenseful novel about celebrity fandom and obsession". All that keeps protagonist Esther going is Ted Levy, a Canadian actor and comedian, and the fan site where Esther and fellow "Tedettes" stalk his every move. Then Esther decides to buy a plane ticket to Canada: "After all, Ted might not know it yet, but they are meant to be together—he just needs a little bit of persuading."

Cotton said: "Tanya is one of Ireland’s most celebrated journalists, whose unique style of storytelling entertains and delights readers every week. I’m thrilled that she has decided to turn her significant talents to novel-writing. Esther is Now Following You is a hilarious and chilling portrayal of a woman’s spiral into obsession, which subverts expectations at every turn."

Sweeney said: "I’m so thrilled and honoured to call Transworld the publisher of this book. I am delighted that Esther is eliciting such a strong, positive response in people. When I spoke to Finn Cotton and realised his enthusiasm for the character, and heard his insights into the editorial process and Transworld’s plans for the book, I knew that we would work brilliantly together. To say I am excited about the future is an understatement."