'Emotive' debut based on real-life story to Urbane

Urbane Publications has signed The Huntingfield Paintress, the debut novel by writer Pamela Holmes.

Matthew Smith, publisher of Urbane, acquired world English language rights to The Huntingfield Paintress.

The book is an "exceptional and intriguing read", the publisher said. "Based on the true story of the real Mildred Holland and the parish church of Huntingfield in Suffolk, Mildred is a plucky and headstrong character and her interactions with the other members of her small Victorian village make for a unique, emotive and beautifully crafted story, just like the history that inspired it."

Smith said: “'This is an incredibly positive signing for Urbane, and Pamela is not just a perfect addition to our growing list, but a debut author to watch. Urbane is keen to publish new talent and novels that are both beautiful and groundbreaking. Pamela’s work fits that goal on both fronts.  Her work will be sure to garner critical attention and I’m very confident of its potential after receiving the first quotes from such literary luminaries as A.N.Wilson. Deborah Moggach and Esther Freud."

Holmes said: “I am so very happy about this. Matthew is showing tremendous faith in a number of debut authors, giving us an opportunity to share our words. I feel that Urbane is the perfect partner for my first novel and I’m looking forward to reader reactions. We already have a launch organised in Huntingfield and we’re clearly going to enjoy every step of the publishing process.”

Urbane will publish The Huntingfield Paintress in May 2016.