Head of Zeus conjures Meghan Nesmith’s romantasy debut in six-figure pre-empt

Head of Zeus has acquired A World Apart, Meghan Nesmith’s debut novel, in a six-figure pre-empt.

Aubrie Artiano, editorial director, bought UK and Commonwealth rights from Suzannah Ball at WME in a two-book deal. A World Apart, the first in the proposed duology, will be published in March 2026 in hardback, e-book and audio as a superlead title. Book two will follow in spring 2027.

The synopsis reads: “In Victorian London, Kit, a rebellious lord’s son enamoured with magic, stumbles into a liminal dimension where he meets the dashing Wilfred, whose family is trapped by dark, centuries-old magic. Their forbidden love sparks a quest to bridge their worlds, but as Kit’s powers grow, so does the danger to both realms. All the while, a malevolent Faerie Queen lurks in the shadows, plotting their downfall. A tale of magic, and sacrifice, A World Apart invites readers on a journey where love knows no bounds – but where the cost of its pursuit may be higher than they ever imagined.”

Artiano said: “This stunning novel landed in my inbox during my morning commute and I nearly missed my train stop. From the moment I started reading, I was drawn into Kit’s and Wil’s worlds, utterly hypnotised by their gorgeous love story and Meghan’s enchanting world-building. I’m so thrilled to be working with Meghan and to share this book with readers, who I know will fall just as much in love as we all have.”

Nesmith, a writer and editor whose work has appeared in publications including the Boston Globe, Teen Vogue, and the Guardian, said: “I couldn’t be happier that Kit and Wil’s love story has found a home with Head of Zeus. 

“Their commitment to diverse, unconventional, and imaginative work makes this such a beautiful match. Writing this book was like bringing a strange dream to life, and I can’t wait to welcome readers into this magical space, too.”