Olivie Blake’s latest novel, ‘Dreamland,’ is set to be released in the summer of 2026 and promises to captivate BookTokers and true crime enthusiasts alike. The renowned author, known for works such as ‘Girl Dinner’ and the popular dark academia sensation ‘The Atlas Six,’ has taken inspiration from one of the most infamous true crime cases in Hollywood history for her upcoming book. In an exclusive statement to PEOPLE, Olivie Blake reveals that ‘Dreamland’ is a contemporary Gothic novel that pays homage to the diverse and vibrant tapestry of Los Angeles, serving as a stage for ambition and creativity.
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Described as “seductive” and “full of secrets,” ‘Dreamland’ draws loose inspiration from the tragic story of the Black Dahlia, a case that continues to intrigue and baffle investigators to this day. The Black Dahlia refers to Elizabeth Short, a 22-year-old woman whose brutal murder in 1947 shook the city of Los Angeles. Short’s mutilated body was found in a grisly state, marking the beginning of a media frenzy that earned her the moniker of the Black Dahlia. Olivie Blake’s novel takes cues from this haunting tale but weaves a unique narrative that delves into themes of violence, desire, and the hidden truths that often accompany the pursuit of success.
While ‘Dreamland’ shares a semblance with the Black Dahlia case, it introduces a fresh storyline that revolves around a series of murders gripping the city of Los Angeles. The novel’s synopsis hints at a dark and mysterious atmosphere, underscored by the strange energy brought by the Santa Ana winds and the unfolding chaos of fire season. Protagonist Anya Morris finds herself entangled in a web of intrigue as she navigates the cutthroat world of the entertainment industry, seizing an opportunity that leads her into the inner circles of Hollywood’s elite.
The introduction of William de Witt, a legendary movie star, and his enigmatic son Jude propels Anya into a realm of wealth and power where hidden agendas and family secrets lurk beneath the surface. As Anya delves deeper into this world of glamour and excess, she confronts the enigmatic allure of Jude, whose presence exudes a dark magnetism that she finds irresistible. However, as the summer heat intensifies and a spate of murders rocks the city, Anya is forced to confront the ominous shadows that loom over the de Witt villa and the cryptic curse that may lie within.
‘Dreamland’ promises readers a riveting exploration of love, ambition, and the price of fame as Olivie Blake deftly crafts a narrative that blurs the lines between reality and fiction. With its release scheduled for August 18, 2026, the novel is already generating buzz within literary circles, inviting readers to immerse themselves in a world where secrets abound and danger lurks at every turn. Preorders for ‘Dreamland’ are now available, offering fans the chance to secure a copy of what is poised to be a compelling addition to Blake’s impressive body of work.
As Olivie Blake’s ‘Dreamland’ prepares to make its debut, the author’s unique blend of storytelling talents and her ability to weave intricate narratives continue to garner attention and accolades. Through her exploration of the dark undercurrents of Hollywood’s past and present, Blake invites readers on a journey that promises thrills, mystery, and a touch of the macabre. With its roots in true crime history and its eyes set on unearthing the hidden truths that lurk beneath the surface, ‘Dreamland’ stands as a testament to Blake’s prowess as a storyteller and her commitment to captivating audiences with tales that resonate long after the final page is turned.