Hulu is bringing another bestselling self-published novel to the screen, with a drama series adaptation of Sheila Masterson’s viral romantasy novel The Poison Daughter now in development, writes Deadline.
The project is being developed by 20th Television, with Sheila Masterson attached as an executive producer. The adaptation is currently searching for a writer.
The Poison Daughter follows Harlow Carrenwell, the youngest daughter of Lunameade’s magical founding family. Gifted—or cursed—with poisonous lips, every person she kisses dies instantly, a power she has secretly used to eliminate her family’s enemies.
Her carefully guarded double life begins to unravel when one of her intended victims survives her kiss.
The man, Henry Havenwood, is not only immune to her deadly power but also her newly arranged fiancé, setting the stage for an enemies-to-lovers fantasy romance filled with magic, secrets and political intrigue.
Masterson self-published the standalone novel in October 2025, and it quickly became a viral hit, selling more than 250,000 copies.
The book reached the USA Today Bestseller list three times before being acquired by publisher Slowburn in April 2026.
Its hardcover and audiobook editions are scheduled for release in the United States and the United Kingdom on 18 August, 2026, with translations planned in 20 languages.
The adaptation reflects the growing demand for romantasy—a genre blending fantasy and romance—which has become one of publishing’s fastest-growing categories.
Several major studios are currently investing in similar projects, including Prime Video’s adaptation of Rebecca Yarros’ Fourth Wing, Sony Pictures Television’s From Blood and Ash, and Amazon MGM Studios’ film adaptation of Shield of Sparrows.
Hulu and 20th Television had previously spent several years developing an adaptation of Sarah J. Maas’ A Court of Thorns and Roses, though that project ultimately did not move forward.
The Poison Daughter joins a growing list of self-published books that have secured film and television adaptations, including The Martian, Silo, Heartstopper, Fifty Shades of Grey, My Life with the Walter Boys, The Kissing Booth, and the After franchise.
Beyond The Poison Daughter, Masterson has also written the gothic fantasy romance Song of the Dark Wood, the The Lost God series, and its standalone spin-off A Legacy of Stars
