Meet the team.
REAL PEOPLE WHO REALLY LOVE BOOKS.

EMILIE MARNEUR
Managing Director

I began my career in publishing as a literary scout. Back in 2005, I was hired to help launch Audible in the UK – a once-in-a-lifetime experience which set me off on a thrilling professional journey. After nearly 8 years, I moved on to launch and build Amazon Publishing in the UK, working across most fiction genres. Then came the time to hang my Amazon hat. I spent a few years at Bonnier Books UK, overseeing the creation of their digital publishing arm, and have now landed here, at Joffe Books!

Digital publishing is my passion – I love commercial fiction, publishing for readers, and working with authors to bring amazing stories to ever-growing audiences.

I owe my love of reading to my mother who introduced me to American and British literature at a young age. John Irving’s The World According to Garp and Barbara Kingsolver’s The Poinsonwood Bible blew my mind as a teen, and I’ve never been without a book since.

KATE LYALL GRANT
Publishing Director

I began my publishing career back in the mists of time, as editorial secretary in Hodder children’s paperback division in 1988. Since then, I’ve worked at David Higham Associates, Hodder & Stoughton (again), Simon & Schuster UK and, most recently, Severn House. I love all types of crime fiction: from darkly twisting psychological thrillers to gentle but highly satisfying cosies; from chilling gothic suspense to intricately plotted police procedurals; from richly imagined historical mysteries to gritty international spy novels.

I can’t pick just one favourite novel, but the most recent book that I simply couldn’t put down was Delia Owens’ remarkable debut, Where the Crawdads Sing: a love story, a coming-of-age novel and a compelling murder mystery all rolled into one, set amidst the wonderfully atmospheric landscape of North Carolina’s coastal marshes.

NINA TAYLOR
Operations Director

I started my career in the corporate world as a producer at John Lewis. At 21 years old, I was managing multiple lifestyle, food and interior shoots across the UK and working with major design agencies to deliver high-quality content on time and within budget. Although this was an exceptional role, my heart belonged elsewhere.

I've always loved the art of storytelling and take great pleasure listening to the stories of others and immersing myself in their experiences, even the unimaginable. So it's not surprising that books have been a huge part of my life since I was a kid. From bedtime stories to summer reading programs at my local library, I've always sought out books in every shape, size and format, so a career in publishing was a no-brainer.

It took me almost five years to break into the publishing industry, and since then I've worn many hats. From acquisitions editor at W.F. Howes, to operations director at Joffe Books, I've helped to build companies and re-launch the careers of numerous authors. What a wild ride!

If you have a story to share, I’m all ears! Let’s talk.

MARIE-LOUISE HAIG
Head of Lume

From a young age I have been a voracious reader. I have early memories of constantly re-reading Enid Blyton’s Malory Towers and St. Clare’s boarding school series until the spines fell off and the books fell apart! I always wanted to work with words and my publishing career started in magazines, firstly food magazines, followed by children’s magazines. I revelled in editing, proofing and producing content that I knew readers would love, which led me to Lume where I have the unbelievable opportunity to dive into its fantastic archive of titles and bring them to new readers.

With a long list of books waiting to be read at all times, it’s hard to pick a favourite, but A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry has probably been the most enjoyable book I’ve ever read and I could re-read Donna Tartt’s The Secret History over and over again - such spellbinding storytelling!

BECKY SLORACH
Head of Choc Lit

I have worked in publishing for many years on a wide range of books, including bestselling non-fiction, crime, women’s fiction and Sunday Times bestselling romances. My proudest professional achievement so far was winning the RNA Inclusion Award in 2022.

Romance has always been my favourite genre — since I read the love story of Anne and Gilbert! I have always had a soft spot for the grumpy-sunshine trope and enemies-to-lovers, but any romance that is written with heart will be my next favourite read.

I believe everyone should be able to read romance they can relate to. I welcome romance submissions with diverse heroes and heroines. I am always looking for the next undiscovered author, and stories with captivating hooks and unique protagonists (and even some spice!)

When not reading for pleasure, or work, I spend my time with my family (including Timmy our rabbit) all of whom love books (including Timmy our rabbit!)

HANNA MYERS
Head of Marketing

I studied English language and literature at university because I have always been fascinated by the stories people tell, how they’re told, and what tools language holds in captivating an audience. From there it was only natural for me to seek a path within publishing. My reading list tends to grow quicker than I manage to dissolve it, but when a rare moment reveals itself I will dive straight back into the arms of Mr Darcy or take a stroll on the grounds at Hogwarts.

GEMMA CARR
Marketing Executive

I studied Graphic Design at University and the desire to come into publishing originated with my love for the written word, both visually and the stories they are able to communicate. I am delighted to be starting my publishing career at Joffe Books within the Marketing Team. Whilst I am continually adding to my 'to be read list', usually a historical fiction novel, the books that sit proudly on my bookshelf are the Harry Potter series, The Book Thief and Notes on a Nervous Planet.

IMOGEN BUCHANAN
Design & Production Manager

The start of my career began on the other side of the industry, managing bookshops in London and the South East, but wanting to expand my experience and put my creative skills to good use, I decided to take the leap into publishing back in 2017. I now manage the design and production for Lume Books, combining both my love of art and beautiful books!

I have designed book covers across a wide variety of genres, from commercial fiction to narrative non-fiction, including works by Nancy Bilyeau and Linda Porter. I have a keen eye for emerging trends and a passion for creating compelling and original designs.

NICK CASTLE
Design Lead

I've always had a deep appreciation for book covers and the skills required to create compelling designs for both fiction and non-fiction works. Upon completing my graphic design course, this passion led me to roles at Harpercollins and Orion Books, where I eventually became an art director. Subsequently, I embarked on a fruitful career as a freelance cover designer, collaborating with numerous prominent book publishers in the UK. Now, I am thrilled to be a part of the in-house team at Joffe Books, where I can contribute in a more focused and collaborative environment.

When I'm not immersed in the world of design, you'll likely find me either cooking a prawn curry, running along the Thames path, or being beaten at various sports by my two children.

LAURA COULMAN-RICH
Senior Project Editor

My editorial experience is eclectic, spanning ten years and an array of genres: from TV tie-ins to dystopias, from historical mysteries to music memoirs. I am the author of three books, including David Bowie: Starman. Nowadays, I’m thrilled to be working in-house on Joffe Books’ wonderful titles.

I read English and French at Lyon III and Lancaster. But my favourite book remains The Secret Garden. Mary, the supremely sulky heroine, is no Little Princess. For that, I adored her instantly. I share her passion for Brontë-esque countryside, and have never been able to resist the mystery of a locked door.

KATE BALLARD
Senior Editor

I’m an extremely adaptable editor with over twenty years’ experience working in book publishing, with in-house roles at Orion Children’s Books, Hachette Australia, Bonnier and Atlantic Books as well as time spent freelancing.

My taste is eclectic and wide-ranging, but I’m a huge fan of compelling emotional dramas that resonate, regardless of their era of setting, especially those with a feminist angle. As an avid reader as far back as I can remember, that compulsion to be transported elsewhere through a page-turning story to discover new voices, places and ideas has never left me.

I’ve most recently been captivated by Parini Shroff’s The Bandit Queens, Gabrielle Zevin’s Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow and Cecilia Rabess’s Everything’s Fine. I feel really lucky to be able to collaborate with like-minded, inspiring and creative people (authors and colleagues alike) on a daily basis as a part of the innovative Joffe Books team.

SIAN HEAP
Senior Commissioning Editor

After stints as a bookseller and in publicity, I began my editorial career at Canelo, working with brilliant authors to publish bestselling crime and psychological suspense. I’m so excited to discover more brilliant stories and new authors as Senior Commissioning Editor at Joffe Books.

I love twisty stories with an arresting hook and unique characters. I’m always on the look out for compelling everyday settings turned upside down, moral dilemmas with intricate plotting and inescapable atmosphere.

Some of my favourite books include Frederik Backman’s Beartown series, The Secret History by Donna Tartt and The Great Believers by Rebecca Makkai. When I’m not working, I can often be found listening to an audiobook (usually something on the lighter, happier side!) whilst doing a new embroidery project.

JASMINE CALLAGHAN
Commissioning Editor

Growing up, I had a fondness for watching and reading Agatha Christie, which has since developed into a weakness for Honkaku (Japanese murder mysteries). While I absolutely can’t narrow down my favourite book to just one, I always find myself coming back to His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman and The Outsider by Albert Camus.

I do find it quite bittersweet that the ever-expanding nature of literature means that I’ll never be able to read all the books that I want to, but I'm delighted by the constant influx of new books and being trusted with the work of authors.

SOPHIE RANDALL
Project Editor

I studied English and Creative Writing at University because I have always had a great passion for reading and writing. The process of publication excites me and I love being part of a journey to bring someone's idea to life! I love reading an array of different genres and I have a great love for 19th century authors such as the Brontës, Agatha Christie and especially Jane Austen, my favourite book ever is Pride and Prejudice! However, that doesn't mean that I don't enjoy losing myself in more modern fantasy, romance and murder mystery works as well!

LAHLI TREVIS
Production Editor

An important aspect of crime fiction is the sense of place created by the author. The grand house on an isolated island of Christie, the dark closes of Auld Reekie in Rankin, or the streets of London by many others. The descriptions of these locations brought me to the UK so I could see and experience it myself. While I’m a bit relieved to not find myself in a real murder mystery — no bell ringers have been done away with in my village . . . yet — I can’t stop devouring crime fiction. I love a classic whodunnit and great detectives.

LAUREN DOOLEY
Project Editor

Since childhood, I've always carried a book with me. Books were my first friend and transported me into the most spectacular worlds. As a result, I studied English and German in Maynooth University, Ireland, and later earned a Publishing MA in London. I've worked in editorial for the past three years, specialising in genre fiction. The portrayal of London in books like Harry Potter and A Darker Shade of Magic convinced me to move from my small town in Ireland to the metropolis of London to pursue my dream of becoming an editor. 

I am beyond thrilled to begin the next chapter of my publishing career with the wonderful team at Joffe Books as a Project Editor. Some of my favourite books will probably contain a dragon or LGBTQ+ characters, such as A Song of Ice and Fire and Nevernight. 

ABBIE DODSON-SHANKS
Publishing Assistant

I studied Graphic Design at university, where my creative practice focused on the design and production of books through an editorial lens. This sparked my interest in the experience that we have with books, how a reader engages with media, form and language, and has naturally led me to pursue a career in publishing. I am delighted to be a member of the Choc Lit team at Joffe Books! I love receiving books recommendations, to share and connect with people through our best loved stories. My favourite books include The Dictionary of Lost Words, The Book Thief and Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine.

TIA DAVIS
Marketing Assistant

Delving into the depths of literature, I've always been captivated by the stories that transport us to new worlds. With a degree in advertising and digital marketing, I've honed my skills to amplify these tales. Whether I'm diving into the heart-pounding pages of a thriller, or losing myself in the enchanting realms of fantasy, books are my sanctuary. With Fourth Wing and A Court Of Thorn And Roses and the gripping works of Holly Jackson and Karen M. McManus as my guides to take on the publishing world.

TEAM JOFFE
The Out-of-Housers

Our spectacular out-of-house team includes Rudi S. (our incomparable customer and author relations liaison and PA to the CEO), Jill B. (our esteemed book tour coordinator, booksnall.blog), Viznavi K. (our wonderful production controller), Emily J. (our ever-erudite commissioning reader) and Lewis P. (our fantastic final reader).

Website by mikeralphdesign.com

We also have a stellar roster of freelance line editors, copy-editors and proofreaders, without whom we would be lost.