Taylor Jenkins Reid, renowned for her captivating narratives, has announced her latest novel, The Last Days of Vic & Coco set to hit shelves on March 2, . This upcoming work promises to delve into the intricate dynamics of female friendship and the thrilling world of pool hustling in the 1970s.
The author, known for her bestsellers like Daisy Jones & the Six and The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo shared her excitement about this new project, which emerged from a moment of inspiration during a shower. Reid’s agent, a nationally ranked pool player, unwittingly sparked the idea when the author recalled a forgotten conversation about the game.
The Genesis of Vic & Coco
The story revolves around Victoria Lucchese and Colette Wilson two best friends who traverse the country, hustling men at pool. Their journey takes a pivotal turn in the summer of 1974 when they settle in Canyonville, Arizona. Here, Vic begins to fall in love, while Coco starts to conceal her true intentions, setting the stage for a dramatic confrontation.
Reid’s inspiration for this tale came from her own experiences with deep female friendships. She reflects on a high school crush that led to a complex but enduring bond with her friend Ashley, who eventually married the boy Reid had admired. This personal anecdote underscores the central theme of the novel: the profound and sometimes devastating nature of female friendships.
The Creative Process
Reid’s approach to writing is intuitive and deeply personal. She describes her creative process as one where stories choose her. For The Last Days of Vic & Coco she felt an immediate connection to the narrative, driven by a vivid image of two pool hustlers that she simply couldn’t ignore.
In an exclusive interview with ELLE Reid shared that she initially thought she was done writing after completing her 2026 novel Atmosphere. However, the idea for Vic & Coco emerged unexpectedly, and she knew she had to pursue it. The novel offers Reid the opportunity to explore a theme she has long wanted to address: the unique and often tumultuous nature of female friendships.
The Cover and Research
The cover design, created by James Iacobelli for Atria Books captures the essence of the story with a striking visual that immediately resonated with Reid. She appreciates the publisher’s ability to understand and convey the novel’s vibe, noting that the cover design process was a collaborative and satisfying experience.
Reid’s research process for this novel was different from her previous works. Instead of delving deeply into the specifics of pool history, she focused on creating an immersive experience for readers. She wanted them to feel like they were in a dive bar in the 1970s, hanging out with Vic and Coco, rather than learning about the technicalities of the game.
As Reid prepares to release The Last Days of Vic & Coco she invites readers to join her on this journey through the complexities of friendship, love, and the thrill of the hustle. The novel is a testament to her ability to weave compelling narratives that resonate deeply with her audience.
