The Worst Thing I’ve Ever Done By Clare Stephens

A timely debut novel from an exciting new voice in women’s fiction about cancel culture and appearance versus reality.

‘As compulsive as any app. Clare Stephens creates a cautionary tale for our times, full of wit and nuance.’ Jane Harper, author of The Dry and Exiles

It’s an ordinary Tuesday morning when Ruby Williams’ name starts trending online.

She’s uploaded an interview that has outraged journalist Felicity Cartwright, a social media personality who has built her profile by policing exactly what women are allowed to say and how they’re allowed to say it. Ruby is at the centre of a brutal public shaming, watching on in horror as her reputation is torn apart.

At first Ruby thinks she can get on top of it if she can just explain herself better. But she soon realises she’ll never be able to placate the tsunami of strangers baying for her blood.

The vitriol pouring in through her phone cracks open a visceral, personal shame from her past that she’s refused to face. Because the worst thing Ruby’s ever done is not defined by this interview, but by a single, chilling scream.

With skilful empathy, Clare Stephens holds a mirror to online personas versus actual lives, exploring what is truly important in a noise-ridden world competing for our attention.