White’s ‘thrilling’ fantasy début Voyage of the Damned lands at Penguin Michael Joseph

Penguin Michael Joseph has signed the “thrilling” fantasy début Voyage of the Damned by Frances White, a creative writing graduate from Royal Holloway, University of London.

Senior commissioning editor Rebecca Hilsdon bought world English rights from Harry Illingworth at D H H Literary Agency, for publication in hardback in early 2024.

The novel follows Ganymedes who – along with 11 others – boards The Dragon’s Dawn as it voyages through the mythical Concordia. But shortly after the ship sets sail someone is murdered, and it isn’t long before the body count begins to rise. It is up to Ganymedes to unmask the killer before everyone on board is damned.

Hilsdon said: “This novel was a total joy from start to finish. Frances has created an incredible world full of humour and heart that is all tied up with a thrilling murder mystery. This is a book that will appeal to crime and thriller readers along with fans of fantasy and Dee is certainly a character no one will forget in a hurry.”

White commented: “I am thrilled Voyage of the Damned has found its home with Penguin Michael Joseph. Rebecca’s enthusiasm and vision for the book perfectly aligns with my own and I’m so excited to be working together.

“This book has all the trappings of a classic murder mystery – a collection of quirky characters, a claustrophobic setting, and a ticking clock, but also with a hefty dose of magic. I can’t wait to share this story, Dee, and all his chaotic messiness with readers.”