Bonnier to publish Barbaree trilogy

Bonnier Zaffre is to publish a historical trilogy from debut author David Barbaree, set in Ancient Rome.

World rights for three books were acquired by Joel Richardson, publisher at digital-first imprint Twenty7, from Sam Copeland at Rogers, Coleridge and White.

The first novel, The Deposed, is set 10 years after the downfall of Nero, and re-imagines history to see the infamous emperor survive, blinded and crippled, to plot his return to power.

Richardson said: “I thought I knew what to expect from a novel set in Ancient Rome, but from the first page David Barbaree’s debut blew me away. Gripping, immaculately researched and wonderfully contemporary in feel, I’m sure it will bring entirely fresh fans to this age-old setting.”

Barbaree said: "I'm thrilled to have found a home with Bonnier Zaffre, and I'm excited for the months and years ahead."

Barbaree is a lawyer and a graduate of the Curtis Brown Creative Writing School. He lives in Toronto with his wife, son and daughter.

Bonnier Zaffre will publish the first book in Spring 2017.