Ebury triumphs at auction for Sutton’s guide to 'joyful' living

Ebury has acquired Hill House Living: How to Create a Joyful Life by stylist, writer and creator Paula Sutton, following a heated seven-way auction. 

In her first book, Sutton—whose lifestyle Instagram page Hill House Vintage has over 460,000 followers—will give readers a full glimpse into her life at Hill House, a decade on from trading the city life for country living. 

Inspired by the the author's love of all things vintage, the book will be illustrated with hundreds of photographs and drawings and will share tips on upcycling, recycling and decorating your living space on a shoestring; useing pre-loved items to create a unique style and greener home; making delicious meals for friends and family; embracing the beauty of nature in each season; and channelling the country aesthetic in your home and garden. 

The publisher explained: "In a world that often moves too fast, Hill House Living is an invitation to take a moment to style, make or cook something nice for its own sake—and yours. Slow down, cosy up and join the quest to making each day more intentionally joyful."

Marianne Tatepo, commissioning editor, acquired world English-language rights from junior agent Megan Staunton at Gleam Titles. Publication is scheduled for 14th October 2021, alongside US imprint Clarkson Potter at Penguin Random House, where senior editor Angelin Borsics acquired North American rights, with Sahara Clement the title’s editor.

Tatepo said: "With her infectious positivity and boundless creativity, Paula has managed to create an inspiring, cosy and magical world, which we have captured with hundreds of beautiful images shot across the seasons and original illustrations. Hill House Living not only gives an exclusive insight into her bucolic life at Hill House, it reveals Paula’s best-kept secrets for city and country folks alike looking to spruce up their homes or gardens, make delicious homely food, or embrace the world of vintage and antiques without breaking the bank. Informed by her 20-year fashion career, Paula’s unmatched knowledge of styling and her rip-roaring anecdotes and recipes from the Caribbean and the British Isles are a real tonic... I can’t think of anyone better to get us through the months to come with a grin on our faces."

Sutton, who previously worked at Elle and Elite Models, commented: "Hill House Living is a celebration of small pleasures, simple delights and all things loved and timeworn. Now more than ever, we need easily achievable projects and goals that remind us to slow down rather than simply revert back to the high-octane speed of life before lockdown. This book is an unabashed guide to the joy of handed-down recipes, remembered snippets of advice and finding beauty in the everyday. It’s an absolute pleasure to work with Ebury to get this message out."