Reese Witherspoon partners with Harlan Coben for debut fiction novel
Oscar-winning actor Reese Witherspoon and acclaimed author Harlan Coben have announced their collaboration on a debut thriller novel. The news was confirmed by publisher Penguin Random House (PRH), which revealed that the book is scheduled for release in autumn 2025. The title remains undisclosed but it has been revealed that the plot is based on an original idea from Witherspoon.
Witherspoon and Coben's creative process revealed
PRH disclosed that Witherspoon and Coben have been working on this project for several months, "developing the concept, creating characters, and writing pages." Expressing her excitement about the collaboration, Witherspoon stated, "To say I am a fan of Harlan's body of work is a massive understatement." "Scheming with Harlan on how to thrill audiences with mysterious characters and complex narrative twists and turns has already been more fun than I can describe."
Coben echoed Witherspoon's sentiments about their collaboration
Coben reciprocated Witherspoon's enthusiasm, stating that he has been a longtime fan of the actor and collaborating with her "has been a pure joy." Selina Walker, publisher at Century (the imprint of PRH that will publish the novel in the UK), expressed her excitement about this partnership. She described it as a "powerhouse combination" and a dream come true for her.
Screen adaptation of Witherspoon-Coben novel already underway
Both Witherspoon and Coben have a history of involvement in screen adaptations of novels. Witherspoon's production company, Hello Sunshine, has produced and starred in TV versions of Big Little Lies, The Morning Show, and Little Fires Everywhere. Meanwhile, 12 of Coben's novels have been adapted for the screen. He is also the creator of British mystery series The Five and French-British crime drama Safe. A screen adaptation of their forthcoming novel is reportedly already in development.
Witherspoon and Coben's previous literary works
Before this collaboration, Witherspoon had authored a lifestyle book titled Whiskey in a Teacup and a series of children's books called Busy Betty. However, this upcoming novel marks her first foray into adult fiction. On the other hand, Coben has penned over 30 thriller novels that have been translated into 46 languages and topped bestseller lists in more than 12 countries.
