Headline pre-empts Buster Books editorial director Farnsworth’s debut novel and one other

Headline Review has acquired The Lonely Hearts’ Quiz League, the debut novel from Lauren Farnsworth, editorial director of Buster Books and Faber Academy graduate.

Publisher Sherise Hobbs pre-empted world rights in two books from Laura Williams at Greene and Heaton. Rights have also been acquired by Rowohlt in Germany after a “storm” of interest. The Lonely Hearts Quiz League will be published in spring 2024.

It tells the story of five unlikely strangers, each in need of confidence, who team up and enter a Pub Quiz League, little realising their Goliathan quest to reach the Grand Finals might be just the reminder they need that sometimes anything is possible.

Hobbs said: “With its loveable cast of lonely London thirty-somethings finding friendship, hope and even love in the most unlikely of places, this intelligent debut novel also touches on important themes of mental illness and controlling relationships. By the end of the novel, I was cheering out loud for the Red Hot Quizzy Peppers, desperate for them to beat the competition and win the league! We believe that Lauren has a very exciting future."

Farnsworth commented: “I am thrilled that this book has found its home among the exceptional talent at Headline Review, and so thankful to Sherise and the wonderful rights team. I hope readers find joy, inspiration and authenticity in this story.”