Black & White bags ‘delightfully festive’ romance by Grace-Cassidy

Black & White Publishing, an imprint of Bonnier Books UK, has signed It’s a Wonderful Life for Lexie Byrne (aged 41¼) by Caroline Grace-Cassidy, a festival sequel to The Unexpected Love Story of Lexie Byrne (aged 39½).

World rights were acquired directly from the author by managing director Campbell Brown for publication on 27th October 2022. This will be Grace-Cassidy’s fifth book with Black & White.

The story follows Lexie Byrne’s now questionable long-distance romance with Adam Cooper, and her best friend Annemarie’s worries about his lack of commitment. Then, as Lexie anxiously awaits his plans to reunite for Christmas in Dublin, he fulfils her bucket list with a surprise trip to New York.

Its synopsis continues: “Will there be a small velvet box of commitment? Or will the complications of Adam’s still besotted ex-wife ruin their chance at happiness? With unexpected twists, startling discoveries and lots of Christmas surprises, it’s the perfect feel-good festive read.”

Brown said: “It’s great to be back working with Caroline to release this delightfully festive story. We love Lexie as a character and are so glad Caroline is continuing her journey. A brilliant, heartfelt read full of humour and poignant moments we know are going to connect with so many people.”

Grace-Cassidy, the author of nine novels and creative director at Document Films, said: “Although romance drives the story, Lexie Byrne is ultimately about the importance of female friendship, the ones who know the real, unfiltered, unguarded you.

“I’ve always wondered why these friendships aren’t prioritised enough as women move into their 40s. After all, it’s these shared experiences that form who we are. My biggest thanks to the readers of the first Lexie Byrne book because they pushed me to know more about Lexie and now the sequel is born.

“I decided to set it at Christmas as it’s my favourite time of year and I was born on Christmas Day! I’m incredibly lucky to be working on my fifth novel with Black & White Publishing – and I hope the book brings festive cheer.”