Hot Key Books is thrilled to announce the acquisition of an intoxicating duology by exciting new voice, Jamison Shea. I Feed Her to the Beast and the Beast Is Me, explores the cutthroat world of Parisian ballet and shows the toll of giving everything to a world that will never love you back.
Ruth Bennett at Hot Key Books acquired UK and Commonwealth English language rights from Kristin Dulaney at Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group, US. Macmillan US bought World English rights from Jennifer March Soloway at Andrea Brown Literary Agency, US.
Laure Mesny is a perfectionist with an axe to grind. Despite being constantly overlooked in the elite and cutthroat world of the Parisian ballet, she will do anything to prove that a Black girl can take centre stage. But as Laure follows her vicious desires, no matter what the cost, she becomes a perfect target too.
Jamison Shea said: “Hot Key has published some of my favourite books I have on my shelves, so I’m excited to have them as a partner in the UK.”
Ruth Bennett, editorial director at Hot Key Books comments: “I completely devoured this book – Jamison’s debut is an intoxicating combination of elite ballet, rivalry, and dark rivers beneath the streets of Paris. It’s a compelling exploration of what happens if you choose evil, but it’s also about the destructive power of a society that never lets you forget your difference. Jamison is an exciting new talent – they write with passion and an effortless eye for a killer plot! I cannot wait for readers to follow Laure on her journey to the dark side.”
Jamison Shea was once a flautist, violist, anthropologist, linguist, choreographer, dancer, professional fire alarm puller, digital producer, and account executive – but they’ve always been a writer. Born in Buffalo, NY and now surrounded by darkness and gloom in Finland, when Jamison isn’t writing horror, they’re drinking milk tea and searching for long-forgotten gods in eerie places. They can be found on socials at @wickedjamison
I Feed Her to the Beast and the Beast Is Me will be publishing in the UK and US in paperback, audio and e-book in August 2023 with the sequel, I Am the Dark That Answers When You Call set to follow in 2024.
