We are very excited to announce that B P Walter has signed a two-book deal with Bookouture. Executive publisher Ruth Tross acquired World English rights from Joanna Swainson.

B P Walter’s first book with Bookouture will publish in September this year. It sees a family Christmas interrupted by a mysterious stranger who claims to be a relative… and is murdered the same night.

Ruth Tross said: ‘I’ve been following B P Walter’s career since I first read and loved The Dinner Guest back in 2021 and I’m thrilled to be publishing this new strand of his writing. I was completely gripped by the book: it’s a brilliant combination of locked-room murder-mystery and psychological thriller, with pitch-perfect festive atmosphere. I can’t wait for readers to meet the Weymans and try and figure out which of them did away with their unexpected guest…’

B P Walter said: ‘I’ve had such fun creating these two upcoming winter thrillers and adding a new strand to my writing. Combining two of my favourite things – Christmas and crime fiction – has been a real joy, and I’m so excited for them to go out into the world with Bookouture. I’ve been a big fan of their publishing for years, so it’s a delight to be working with Ruth and the team.’

Jo Swainson said:‘I’m delighted Ruth read the book so enthusiastically. It’s such an engaging and propulsive wintry thriller. Bookouture is the perfect home for it and I can’t wait for existing fans and new readers alike to get their hands on it as the darker nights draw in.’