First there was comfort lit – all those Korean novels set in cafes, laundromats and bookshops; then came romantasy, led by the twin goddesses of the genre, Rebecca Yarros and Sara J Maas; now comes ‘Summerween’, a phenomenon born on TikTok, as ever, and meaning starting Halloween early, before the summer has gone.
Pan Macmillan has acquired Cruel Summerween by Heather Spellman. Commissioning editor Raphaella Demetris and assistant editor Emily Sumner bought world all language rights from Imogen Bovill at Abner Stein.
The paperback original will be published in July 2026, “just in time for the growing trend of Summerween – the TikTok phenomenon of starting spooky season early, blending coastal summer warmth with atmospheric autumn vibes”, the publisher says.
According to the blurb the book follows Molly, who always looked forward to summers at Whisperwind Hollow, a magical haven where her powers flourish and old friendships deepen. But this year, the magic feels different, the blurb goes on. Caught between the easy charm and playful magic of Finn and the quiet strength and mysterious gaze of Noah, two brothers who have always been by her side, Molly finds her heart pulled in opposite directions.
Demetris said: “Once again, Heather Spellman has magicked up a truly gorgeous story. This tale of ancient spells, shifting loyalties and Molly’s big decision, and infused with all of the yearning, love triangle, friends-to-lovers tension that readers crave, it’s a sizzling story with a massive heart. We can’t wait for readers to fall under its spell.”
Sumner describes the book as a “wonderfully cosy story of the magic of love and friendship gently [that] tugs at your heartstrings”, while Spellman said: “There’s something truly enchanting about a late-summer beach getaway, and I have many fond childhood memories of swimming and snorkelling with school friends in Blairgowrie, Australia. The magic of those memories infuses Cruel Summerween…
