Headline Review snares Tizzard's 'glittering' debut set in 1930s New York

Headline Review has snared Grace of the Empire State, a "glittering" debut novel from Gemma Tizzard.

Publisher Sherise Hobbs acquired world English language rights in two books from Julia Silk at Greyhound Literary. North American rights were sold to Abby Zidle at Gallery Books and German rights were snapped up by Lexa Rost at Fischer Verlag at auction.

The book, which will publish in trade paperback, e-book and audiobook in 2025, is set in 1930s New York against the backdrop of a half-built skyscraper. The synopsis says: "Grieving the death of their father, dancer Grace and her twin brother Patrick must support their family. When Patrick is injured at work on the Empire State Building, desperation leaves them only one solution: Grace must take Patrick’s place.

"Working hundreds of feet above the city driving red-hot rivets into steel is no place for a woman,  but Grace must risk everything if she is to save her family from ruin."

Hobbs commented: "Fizzing with the energy of 1930s New York, this transporting, glittering novel celebrates female strength and tenacity. With an unforgettable heroine who risks her life for those she loves, Grace of the Empire State will delight fans of female-driven historical fiction, as well as all those readers who just want to curl up with something thrilling."

Tizzard added: "I am delighted to be working with such a brilliant publisher and editorial team who have championed Grace of the Empire State from the very beginning, and love these characters as much as I do."

Tizzard has a degree in American Studies and also writes romantic comedies. She was longlisted for the 2021 and 2022 Comedy Women in Print (CWIP) Unpublished Novel Prize.