Century snaps up Amanda Cassidy's 'propulsive' novel in 'major' pre-empt

Century Fiction has signed former Sky News reporter Amanda Cassidy’s Beautiful Liars in a "major" pre-empt. 

Publishing director Emily Griffin acquired world rights in a two-book deal from Diana Beaumont at. North American rights were pre-empted by Melanie Fried at Putnam. Beautiful Liars will be published as Century’s lead title in hardback, e-book and audio in spring 2027. 

Set in an "upscale" Dublin community, after the disapperance of 17-year-old Saskia, who vanishes during a game of dare in the woods, Beautiful Liars follows three mothers who must protect their children who were with Saskia the night she vanished. 

The synopsis continues: "These are families who have always used wealth to shield their children from just about anything. And Saskia’s younger sister, Maude, is determined to find out what happened that terrible night, whatever the cost." 

Cassidy said: "Beautiful Liars began with my fascination for what really happens behind the closed doors of a seemingly privileged life – where parents will do almost anything to protect their children, especially when they have the means to make problems disappear. I grew up on bedtime stories of Irish folklore that always carried a hint of darkness, so that edge naturally finds its way into my novels." 

Griffin added: "From the first page of Beautiful Liars I could feel a star quality in Amanda’s writing – it is at once propulsive and thought-provoking and full of meaty talking points. Layer by layer, Amanda pulls back the secrets contained within a close-knit community as she explores how far people are prepared to go to protect those they love. Into this addictive narrative she cleverly weaves in Irish folklore and wolves to create a truly unforgettable reading experience… We are ambitious to make Beautiful Liars a major break-out publication on the Century list."