'Very British' debut novel goes to Louise Walters

Indie press Louise Walters Books has signed a “very British” novel by debut author S J Norbury in a one-book deal.

Louise Walters acquired rights to Mrs Narwhal’s Diary direct from the author, after critiquing her manuscript. The novel will be published in May 2021 in paperback and e-book.

The synopsis reads: “Mrs Narwhal’s Diary is a funny, moving, heart-warming tale of a middle-aged woman battling to save not only her husband’s crumbling ancestral home, but her marriage too. Reminiscent of Dodie Smith’s I Capture the Castle, and Bill Bryson’s Notes From a Small Island, this is a very British novel with truly universal appeal.”

Walters said: “In January 2019 I was asked to critique Mrs Narwhal’s Diary. From the very first page I was charmed and hooked by the voice of Mrs Narwhal… and I was able to provide an exceptionally glowing critique for its author. I advised Susannah to try agents, and although many of them loved the writing, it didn’t find a home. I’m delighted that Susannah has agreed to allow me to publish her enchanting novel.”

Norbury added: “I couldn’t have found a better pair of hands for Mrs Narwhal’s Diary than those of Louise Walters. I’m beyond thrilled to be working with her - all saddled up and raring to go.”