They're Out!

The Silent Companions, that is.

It’s now over a month since House of Splinters launched in the UK! The events for this novel were extra fun, as I was accompanied by life-sized standees of the creepy silent companions (and I’ve even taken one home for my living room). Seeing these figures in shop windows and greeting me by signing tables has been a real career highlight. Let’s just hope they’re not haunting the various bookshops.

Writing alone from home as I do, with a focus on deadlines and sales figures, it’s easy to forget just what makes writing and books so special. Going on this small tour of the South East reconnected me with my lovely readers in the best possible way. From the gift of an embroidered corset, to the young man who told me my stories had helped his mother while recovering in hospital, I was overwhelmed by your kind support. Thank you so much to everyone who came to see me on this little tour, especially the sweet reader who told me I was her favourite author EVER. It’s been wonderful to remember that stories are a magical connection between us, a shared emotional and intellectual experience. That was the whole reason I started writing in the first place, and the reason I will keep writing. I’m truly touched to see The Silent Companions have dragged their way into so many of your hearts.

Overseas

I have excellent news for my dear German readers! Festa have purchased the rights to House of Splinters and the translation will be heading your way next year, 2026. Festa always produce the most beautiful editions and I really cannot wait to see what they do with this one.

We’re also heading slowly towards publication in the USA, coming from Blackstone in February 2026. Proof copies should be going out shortly. The wait is nearly over!

What’s Next?

I’ve mentioned before that my next YA novel will be coming from Magpie, an imprint of HarperCollins, in October 2026. My provisional title for it was Dark Horse, which has now been changed to Thorns in the Hollow. It’s a dark twist on the unicorn myth, dealing with themes of female agency and purity. The cover has already been briefed, so fingers crossed I will be seeing something beautiful in the upcoming months.

I’m also working on a variety of short stories for anthologies, ranging from horror to gothic romance.

My next adult fiction is to be decided. I am currently out of contract and mulling over my many ideas until I hit upon a winner.

As of next week, I’m in for back surgery and a six week recovery period, so this will probably be the last newsletter of the year. Thank you again for accompanying me on this journey, I wish you a happy holiday season when it arrives and look forward to seeing you in 2026.

LP x