Bookouture signs two from debut author Lora Davies

Bookouture has acquired two historical novels by debut author Lora Davies.

Commissioning editor Therese Keating acquired world English language rights to two novels from Hannah Weatherill at Northbank Talent Management. Audio rights have been sold to W F Howes and dramatic rights are with Northbank Talent Management. 

The first title, That Which is Hidden, will follow the story of Mercy, a young Black woman in 1820s London whose life is upended first by a startling memory, and then by the knowledge that a terrible secret lies in her past. It will publish in summer 2021, with the second novel to follow in early 2022.

Keating said: "It would be quicker to list the parts of Lora’s book I didn’t fall in love with. She writes so movingly and with such heart about identity and family, but also with great humour about friendship, and brings the city of London vividly and atmospherically to life. I was gripped all the way to the ending – which I sobbed through! I am so pleased and proud to welcome Lora to Bookouture – I know readers will love Mercy’s story just as much as I did."

Davies commented: "I am absolutely delighted to be beginning my publishing journey with the fabulous Bookouture team. Therese’s passion for my characters and story was evident immediately and I can't wait for us to share them with the wider world."