Why We Chose Under Story for September's PREM1ER Book

For September 2026, we wanted to champion a novel that feels truly unforgettable: one that pushes the boundaries of storytelling while remaining deeply human at its core. Under Story by Chloe Benjamin is an extraordinary achievement, blending speculative fiction, literary fiction and an epic love story into a novel that is both intellectually ambitious and profoundly moving.

At the heart of the story is Laurel Salter, a former biologist who has retreated to an isolated research station in Antarctica, hoping to leave behind the life and heartbreak she once knew. But when a mysterious phenomenon appears across the ice, drawing scientists from around the world—including her former husband, Eli—Laurel is forced to confront the past she has spent years trying to escape. What follows is a breathtaking exploration of love, grief, time and the extraordinary lengths we would go to for another chance with the people who matter most.

What captured us most about Under Story is Chloe Benjamin's remarkable ability to weave together intimate emotion with astonishing imagination. While the novel explores ideas that feel vast in scale—physics, parallel worlds and the mysteries of existence—it never loses sight of the relationships at its centre. Every page is driven by heartfelt questions about family, forgiveness, regret and hope, making even its most mind-bending moments feel deeply personal.

Above all, Under Story embodies everything we seek in a PREM1ER selection. It is bold in its ambition, beautiful in its execution and emotionally resonant from beginning to end. Exactly the kind of novel that sparks conversation and deserves a permanent place on every collector's shelf.

PREM1ER Exclusive Edition

• Signed & numbered by the author
• Bespoke printed case with die-cut design
• Custom endpaper design
• Digitally sprayed ombre edges
• Limited to 1200 copies

Become a PREM1ER Member

Joining PREM1ER is about far more than receiving a beautifully produced book each month. It's becoming part of a community of readers and collectors who share a passion for exceptional storytelling, beautiful editions and discovering tomorrow's classics before everyone else.

Membership starts from £24.99 per month (plus shipping) with a six-month commitment.

As a PREM1ER member, you'll enjoy:

Beautiful Collectible Editions
Receive a hand-signed first edition each month, produced exclusively for Goldsboro Books with bespoke finishes designed to become treasured pieces in your collection.

Priority Access
Enjoy early access to many of our exclusive editions before they are released to the wider public.

Build a Collection to Treasure
Every PREM1ER choice is carefully selected not only for the quality of its storytelling, but for its lasting appeal as a collectible edition.

Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes Content
Go beyond the finished novel with author interviews, editorial insights and commentary from Goldsboro co-founder and literary agent David Headley.

15% Off Throughout Your Membership
Receive 15% discount on almost everything else you purchase from Goldsboro Books while you're an active member.

Personalise Your Collection
Request matching edition numbers to create a beautifully curated library unique to you.

Even More Member Benefits
Including exclusive newsletters, collecting advice, early announcements and access to special member opportunities throughout the year.

For more than twenty years, PREM1ER has introduced readers to exceptional novels while creating editions that collectors cherish for years to come. Many of our authors even visit our iconic Cecil Court bookshop to sign their books in person, making every edition part of Goldsboro's own story.

Whether you're an avid collector or simply someone who loves discovering extraordinary books before everyone else, PREM1ER offers a welcoming community built around a shared love of reading.

To find out more, contact the team at premier@goldsborobooks.com.

We'd love to welcome you as a PREM1ER member.