Hachette acquires McNab’s true crime ‘Recipe for Murder’
Hachette Australia has acquired world rights for the nonfiction title Recipe for Murder by Duncan McNab, in a deal brokered by Lyn Tranter at Australian Literary Management.
The book ‘delves into the high-profile Erin Patterson case – a chilling saga that captivated the nation and sparked international headlines,’ said the publisher. ‘McNab offers an unparalleled examination of the Erin Patterson case. Drawing on his extensive investigative experience, he provides readers with an in-depth look into the nine-week trial, offering unmatched insight into the key evidence, the legal strategy, and the emotional toll of a case that gripped the nation and captured global attention.’
McNab is a former police detective, private investigator specialising in criminal defence, investigative journalist and media advisor to government and the private sector. He is the author of 12 books, including Getting Away with Murder (PRH, 2017), which won the 2017 Ned Kelly Award for Best True Crime. He was a producer on the Kennedy and Clarion award-winning Murder Uncovered series (7 Network) in 2017 and creator/series producer of Australia Behind Bars (9 Network/ITV).
Hachette Australia head of nonfiction Vanessa Radnidge said, ‘Bestselling author Duncan McNab, who was in the courtroom on the first day and the last, has followed the evidence every step of the way through his presence in the courtroom when possible, in the overflow room in both Morwell and Melbourne, through court transcripts and live streams. Duncan has used his investigative skills honed as a detective to connect to neighbours, experts and community members. He has pieced together Patterson’s background and profile and will reveal the whole story, unpack the lies and deliver the definitive account of the “Mushroom Murderer” from Leongatha.’
McNab said, ‘Erin Patterson’s crimes are appalling – a calculated and deadly plot targeting honourable people who cared for her and her children. The motive for this darkest of crimes remains elusive. I’ve spent a life in crime and this is one of the most insidious – Patterson is a loving mother and also a cold-blooded killer.’
Hachette plans to publish Recipe for Murder on 14 October 2025.
Category: Local news Rights and acquisitions
