[10] In an interview with the Boston Globe Kepnes said her first paid writing gig was an article on boy bands, for Tiger Beat magazine.

[11] Kepnes explained the darkness of You, which deconstructs the romantic-comedy tropes highlighted in many films and shows by making the protagonist a violent stalker and serial killer, saying it was written in a dark period of her life, the year her father died of cancer, and in which she experienced several other personal challenges.

[12] Later, Kepnes was initially hesitant on labeling Joe, as a few readers argued that his actions classified him as a serial killer.

The author then clarified her position on the matter, citing that "I remember when I wrote You and someone first referred to Joe as a serial killer.

"[13] In February 2015, it was announced that Greg Berlanti and Sera Gamble would develop a television series based on the novel at Showtime.

[27][28] For Hidden Bodies, Kepnes had thoughts for a potential direction before its conception, stating “ Before I was even finished with the first book I knew what my second one was going to be.

"[32] In January 2021, it was announced that Greg Berlanti and Sera Gamble would reunite to develop a television series based on the novel for Peacock.