Avon Books swoops for Cowell's 'wonderfully escapist' debut in two-book deal

Avon Books has swooped for two novels from Emma Cowell, including her debut, One Last Letter from Greece.

Editor Lucy Frederick won world English-language rights at auction from Kate Burke at the Blake Friedmann agency. The debut will be published in May 2022. 

The synopsis reads: "One Last Letter from Greece follows the story of Sophie who, devastated by her mother’s death, longs to get away – from friends who have their lives together, from her possessive ex-boyfriend, and from the empty rooms of her once-happy home. So when a chance discovery among her mother’s belongings hints at a past Sophie knows nothing of, she jumps at the opportunity for adventure and a chance to heal. The magical, idyllic Greek town of Methoni awaits. But Sophie – determined to uncover her mother’s secrets – is about to discover so much more. Among the cosy tavernas and glittering harbours, Methoni’s locals offer Sophie the answers she craves, along with unexpected romance and, if she’ll take it, a chance at her own happiness. Will walking in her mother’s footsteps help Sophie discover who she was meant to be all along?"

Frederick said: "Never have I longed for a holiday more than when I first dove into Emma’s opening pages. One Last Letter from Greece is romantic, life-affirming and wonderfully escapist. But beyond the beautiful Greek backdrop, Emma’s story is touching and emotive, introducing an enduring mother-daughter bond and a love that stretches across all time and distance. I know I speak on behalf of the whole Avon team when I say we are over the moon to welcome Emma to the list as an incredibly exciting new voice and we can’t wait for the world to fall in love with Sophie’s journey with us."

Cowell said: "I am thrilled to have the perfect home for my debut novel. Writing this story has been such an emotional experience, exploring the highs and lows of love and grief, touching on some of the universal issues that affect women today. I am so grateful to Kate Burke at Blake Friedmann and the amazing team at Avon for believing in me with such passion and enthusiasm."