HarperVoyager nets fantasy duology from debut author Gordon

HarperVoyager has netted a new fantasy duology inspired by English folklore from debut writer Marianne Gordon. 

Natasha Bardon, publishing director at HarperVoyager UK, and Vedika Khanna, associate editor at HarperVoyager US, acquired world English rights to The Gilded Crown and The Antlered King in a two-book deal with Anne Perry at the Ki Agency. The first book, The Gilded Crown, will publish in spring 2023.  

It follows Hellevir, born with the rare ability to enter the half-light of death and barter for souls. But every time she brings back the dead, she must pay a price demanded by the dark figure who rules in the afterlife and asks a little more from Hellevir with each visit.  

When the Princess of the Chron is assassinated, Hellevir is asked to bring the girl back to life, and remain by her side to bring her back should any attempt on her life again be successful. But the Princess of the Chron is no easy woman to be bound to, even as Hellevir begins to fall for her, and civil war is no easy thing to avert, as Hellevir trades more and more of herself to keep the Princess alive. 

Gordon said: “I am so excited to be working with the amazing team at HarperVoyager to bring the world of the Chron to life. It’s a dream come true to become one of their authors, and I’m so looking forward to the journey ahead.” 

Bardon added: “Marianne has crafted a beautiful tale loosely inspired by Greek mythology and English folklore that’s evocative and lyrical. Hellevir is a character to fall in love with and I cannot wait to share her story with readers.”