Dutch Uncle illustrator Jisu Choi has created the cover illustration for Annie Knows Everything, the debut novel by Canadian author Rachel Wood, published in the UK by Zaffre, an imprint of Bonnier Books UK.
A sparkling workplace romantic comedy inspired by Jane Austen's Emma, the novel follows Annie, who finds herself unexpectedly navigating the world of corporate data strategy after losing her job. As she attempts to establish herself in an unfamiliar role, manage complicated friendships and navigate an increasingly complicated relationship with her new boss, she discovers that perhaps she doesn't know everything after all.
Combining workplace romance, sharp humour and contemporary relationships, the novel explores ambition, self-discovery and the often unpredictable nature of working life. The publisher positions it alongside the work of contemporary romantic comedy authors Emily Henry and Monica Heisey.
From independent bookseller to debut novelist
Rachel Wood brings an interesting publishing background to her first novel. Originally from Toronto, Canada, she moved to Edinburgh to study for a master's degree in creative writing at the University of Edinburgh. After graduating, she began her career as a copywriter before founding Rare Birds Book Club in 2017, a book subscription service celebrating independent publishing and carefully curated reading.
In 2021, she opened Rare Birds Bookshop in Edinburgh, which was recognised by The Sunday Times as one of the UK's coolest new bookshops.
Her experience working within the book industry provides an interesting context for her transition into fiction writing. Annie Knows Everything brings together her understanding of contemporary readers, popular fiction and the enduring appeal of romantic comedy.
An international publishing deal
The publication of Annie Knows Everything represents an ambitious international debut. Zaffre, the commercial fiction imprint of Bonnier Books UK, acquired the UK and Commonwealth publishing rights in a 24-hour pre-emptive deal, negotiated with Rachel's literary agent at WME. The novel was simultaneously acquired in the United States by Penguin Random House and in Germany by Bastei Lübbe.
The acquisition was led by Melissa Cox, Publishing Director at Zaffre, who described the novel as a particularly exciting romantic comedy, praising its humour, charm and relatable characters.
The book was subsequently published in the UK on 7 May 2026 in hardback, ebook and audiobook formats. Its US edition was published by Dial Press, part of Penguin Random House.
This international publishing journey places Rachel's debut within a wider contemporary fiction market, with the novel reaching readers through three major publishing territories.
Jisu Choi: Illustration and visual storytelling
Jisu Choi is a South Korean illustrator represented internationally by Dutch Uncle. Her practice spans publishing, editorial illustration, advertising and commercial projects. Her international client list includes Louis Vuitton, Adidas, Hyundai, Musée d'Orsay and Macmillan.
Her work demonstrates a distinctive approach to visual storytelling, combining carefully constructed compositions with intricate detail. Annie Knows Everything adds another publishing commission to her growing portfolio.
Book details
Title: Annie Knows Everything
Author: Rachel Wood
Cover illustration: Jisu Choi
UK publisher: Zaffre, Bonnier Books UK
US publisher: Dial Press, Penguin Random House
UK publication: 7 May 2026
Genre: Contemporary fiction / Romantic comedy
ISBN: 9781785125775
