Harvill Secker signs Driscoll’s ‘captivating’ debut about an Egyptian myth

Harvill Secker has signed Nephthys, the “captivating” debut novel about an Egyptian myth unravelling in Victorian England by Rachel Louise Driscoll.

Nephthys tells the story of a young Egyptologist from Victorian England trying to save her family, and the goddess who lies at the heart of her quest. Publishing director Liz Foley bought world all-language rights from Sarah Hornsley at PFD. Publication is scheduled for 6th February 2025. 

Foley said: “Rachel has written such a sensational novel in Nepththys full of drama, romance and evocative storytelling. I was delighted to learn more about the ancient Egyptian goddess Nephthys through Clemmie’s quest and I think many readers are going to be equally enchanted.”

Hornsley said: “I knew Nephthys was something special from the very first page and Rachel does a brilliant job in transporting us to the shores of Egypt with a captivating mix of mythology, history and characters you simply don’t want to leave behind. I am glad it has found the perfect editor and home with Liz Foley and Harvill Secker.”

Driscoll, who won the Curtis Brown Creative scholarship in 2020 and works at Plymouth University library, said: “Being published by Harvill Secker is a dream come true, and it’s an honour to join their incredible list of authors. I’ve loved working with Liz and it’s been a joy to see her enthusiasm for the story and characters. Nephthys blends my love of the Victorian era, Egyptology, gothic romance, and mythology, and I really hope readers will relish exploring 19th-century Egypt along with Clemmie and her companions.”