Avon's Wickington buys Marchant debut in first acquisition

HarperCollins imprint Avon is to publish Clare Marchant's debut The Secrets of Saffron Hall. 

Beth Wickington (pictured), editorial assistant at Avon, found the submission via the Avon open submissions process and acquired world all-language rights from Ella Kahn at the Diamond Kahn & Woods Literary Agency, in her first acquisition for the imprint. The book is on schedule for publication in summer 2020.

The Secrets of Saffron Hall follows university archivist Amber who, on discovering an ancient book of hours in her grandad’s home, learns about the life of Eleanor Lutton, a Tudor noblewoman whose secrets have never been unveiled. As Amber delves further into Eleanor’s past, she begins to realise that the two women could be bound together in ways she never thought possible.

Wickington said: "I am delighted to be bringing Clare and her debut novel to Avon, which is historical fiction at its very best: tumbling with secrets, full of mystery, infused with fascinating historical detail and with strong heroines at its heart. I can’t wait for readers to discover The Secrets of Saffron Hall and fall in love with Amber and Eleanor just as much as I did." 

Marchant added: "I'm thrilled to be working with Beth at Avon and I love her vision for my debut historical timeslip The Secrets of Saffron Hall. The novel reflects my love of Norfolk and its rich history."