HCG buys 'funny, feminist' YA tale from Tuffs

Hachette Children's Group is to publish two books in a "funny, feminist, witchy" YA series from debut author Julia Tuffs.

Lena McCauley, commissioning editor at HCG, acquired world and film and TV rights in a deal made with Helen Boyle at Pickled Ink.

Hexed, the first book, will be released in July 2021 by the Orion Children's Book imprint, with the second to follow in 2022. 

HCG describes the novel as "Sabrina the Teenage Witch" meets "Sex Education". The synopsis reads: "Hexed is a feisty YA debut all about finding your place (and your powers). Hexed follows Jessie Jones, the new girl in school, as she tries to keep her head down and coast her way unnoticed through the year. But when strange powers start to manifest during her period, flying under the radar seems highly unlikely. Jessie needs to learn how to embrace her new-found witchiness and control her erratic magic, all while tackling the school’s cult of toxic masculinity – and resident misogynist Callum Henderson. Funny and punchy, Hexed is perfect for fans of Holly Bourne."

McCauley said: "Reading Hexed, I found myself wishing that I had my own magical powers to help defeat the patriarchy. I can’t wait for Julia’s story to enchant and inspire readers."

Tuffs added: "I couldn’t be happier that Hexed has found the perfect home at Hachette Children’s Group and I’m excited to work with Lena and the team to unleash Jessie Jones and her magic on to the world next year."