Tom Watson set to release political thriller about ‘betrayal’ in fiction debut after quitting as deputy Labour leader

Tom Watson is to release a political thriller about “betrayal” after acrimoniously quitting his position as deputy Labour leader. 

The former MP said “brutality and hostility” led him to walk from the role, stating it was time to “take a leap” and “do something different”. 

He has now revealed what that change of direction is, with the announcement of his fiction debut The House, written alongside Imogen Roberston. 

It is described as “a story of cold-blooded ambition, hope, friendship… and betrayal”. 

He told The Bookseller: “My first novel with Imogen will explore the themes that lubricate our political system: ambition and failure, trust and betrayal. In a world where virtue is seen as a rare commodity, The House will introduce you to the heroes and villains engaged in a struggle for fame, power and revenge.”

It is set to be published in autumn, though an exact date has not been confirmed. 

Mr Watson stepped down and confirmed he would not run as an MP ahead of the December 12 election. 

A contest is being held for his deputy, alongside the race to replace leader Jeremy Corbyn.