Picture a British storyteller who spins tales so twisty they keep you up all night—meet Sabine Durrant! A former journalist turned thriller maestro, Durrant has carved a niche in psychological suspense, blending sharp wit with chilling plots. Her novels, like Lie With Me and Sun Damage, have captivated readers worldwide, earning her a spot as a must-read in contemporary British literature.
From her days penning features for The Guardian to crafting bestselling novels, Durrant’s journey is a testament to her storytelling prowess. With a knack for creating flawed, relatable characters, she’s become a favorite for fans of Gillian Flynn and Clare Mackintosh. Let’s dive into her world!
The Making of Sabine Durrant
Born and raised in Britain, Sabine Durrant’s love for words bloomed early. Growing up, she devoured books, fueling her imagination with stories that shaped her sharp, observant style. After studying at university, she dove into journalism, rising to assistant editor at The Guardian and literary editor at The Sunday Times. Her feature writing, often witty and insightful, appeared in major UK publications, honing her ability to capture human quirks—a skill that shines in her fiction.
Living in south London with her partner, sportswriter Giles Smith, and their three children, Durrant transitioned to novels in 2002. Her journalistic eye for detail and ear for dialogue gave her a unique edge, setting the stage for her gripping thrillers and charming young adult tales.
Sabine Durrant’s Unforgettable Stories
Durrant’s debut, Having It and Eating It (2002), introduced her knack for witty women’s fiction, following Maggie Owen’s chaotic suburban life with humor and heart. She then ventured into young adult fiction with the Connie Pickles series, like Cross Your Heart, Connie Pickles, blending teenage antics with laugh-out-loud charm, perfect for fans of Louise Rennison.
But it’s her psychological thrillers that truly shine. Under Your Skin (2013) follows TV host Gaby Mortimer, whose perfect life unravels after discovering a body, packed with twists that echo Gone Girl. Lie With Me (2016), a Richard & Judy Book Club pick and Sunday Times bestseller, weaves a web of deception around a scheming protagonist, earning rave reviews for its “killer twist” (Woman & Home). Her latest, Sun Damage (2022), set in Provence, explores con artists among wealthy vacationers, sparking a bidding war for its fresh, sun-soaked suspense.
Durrant’s style is a masterclass in tension, blending domestic drama with dark secrets. Her characters—flawed, ambitious, and all too human—pull readers into morally gray worlds where lies unravel with devastating consequences. Her plots, often set in relatable settings like London suburbs or idyllic getaways, feel both familiar and thrillingly unpredictable.
Why Sabine Durrant Matters
Sabine Durrant has redefined psychological suspense by grounding it in everyday life, making her stories resonate with readers who see themselves in her characters’ messy lives. Her ability to pivot from chick-lit to gritty thrillers showcases her versatility, while her journalistic precision ensures every plot twist lands. Nominated for awards like Theakston’s Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year, her work has left a mark on the genre, inspiring new voices in British crime fiction.
Beyond her novels, Durrant’s Guardian columns on family life connect with readers, offering a glimpse into the warmth and chaos that fuel her storytelling. Her global translations into over 12 languages reflect her universal appeal, proving that a good story transcends borders.
- Key Works: Lie With Me, Under Your Skin, Sun Damage, Having It and Eating It
- Awards: Nominated for Theakston’s Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year (2017), British Book Awards Crime Novel of the Year (2017)
- Home: South London, with partner Giles Smith and three children
Snag Lie With Me and dive into Sabine Durrant’s thrilling world of secrets and suspense!