HarperNorth acquires Dolly Parton inspired rom-com from Suzan Holder

HarperNorth has acquired a Dolly Parton inspired rom-com from Suzan Holder. Genevieve Pegg, publisher at HarperNorth, acquired all-language rights to What Would Dolly Do? direct from the author. The new novel will publish in paperback, audio and e-book in June 2025. 

The synopsis reads: "Set between Edinburgh and Nashville, What Would Dolly Do? is a rom-com for every Dolly Parton fan out there, for anyone who’s ever wondered what life might be like if you could escape the 9-5, and for all of us who could do with a bit of extra rhinestone sparkle in our lives."

Holder—who is married to musician, actor and presenter Noddy Holder—is a TV producer and journalist who has written for newspapers, television and theatre as well as two previous novels published by One More Chapter.

Holder said: "I’ve always been in awe of Dolly, not only for her talent but also her way of being uniquely herself. It’s part of the inspiration behind my novel about a woman who, at a crisis in her life, realises the music and wisdom of Dolly Parton can help her find her path, her identity and her confidence. As Dolly says: we should all find out who we are and do it on purpose! The leading lady in this book does just that… and it’s also what I’m doing in writing it. Thanks Dolly and thanks to HarperNorth, too."

Pegg added: "Which of us couldn’t benefit from being a bit more Dolly? Suzan’s writing is the real deal—sparkling, hugely relatable and laugh-out-loud funny. I can’t wait to bring her warmth and flair to readers everywhere."