HarperFiction’s New Imprint to Woo Crime Fiction Lovers
By Medha Godbole
Hemlock Press, HarperFiction’s new crime imprint, is set to woo crime fiction enthusiasts. With HarperFiction Publisher Julia Wisdom at the helm, Hemlock Press promises to “intrigue the mind and thrill the senses.” The list will feature both A. J. Finn and Abigail Dean as well as new voices across mystery fiction. The imprint and its logo were unveiled at the Frankfurt Book Fair 2023 with much fanfare. To be launched in spring 2024, Hemlock Press will feature espionage fiction, literary crime thrillers and historical suspense.
Hemlock Press was conceived as part of HarperFiction’s ongoing growth strategy and will be an addition to its already growing general fiction list. The imprint promises a curated list for those seeking literary quality interspersed with intriguing plots, beautifully crafted settings and memorable characters.
Wisdom has worked with an illustrious list of authors and she has also been vastly involved with the crime writing community. Her love affair with crime fiction, historical suspense and thrillers will continue with Hemlock Press. Wisdom will be spearheading the list and will be supported by a newly promoted commissioning team, including Senior Commissioning Editor Kathryn Cheshire and Assistant Editor Elizabeth Burrell.
Bestsellers Finna and Dean, Jane Casey and Stig Abell will be a part of the imprint’s launch in 2024, which will also be punctuated by a celebratory party and festival partnerships. HarperCollins added that it is currently working on getting exciting new talent onboard to publish in 2025. Already this includes Nina Bhadreshwar, whose work was acquired after a hard-fought auction, and Laura McCluskey, whose two-book deal was announced at the Frankfurt Book Fair 2023.
Speaking about the new imprint, which describes itself as “the tastemaker of award-winning books,” Wisdom said that this area of fiction offers an incredible variety. It has also nurtured and brought to the fore some amazing talent. Working with a range of authors, she believes, is an honour and joy and she is thrilled to bring them together under the auspices of a new, clearly defined imprint. They are looking forward to exciting times at Hemlock Press, she added.
HarperFiction is known to have something for everyone and this brand-new imprint will certainly solidify this reputation.