Headline scoops debut novel from comedy writer Gibbs

Headline has acquired Eight Bright Lights, the “deliciously warm, funny and witty” debut novel from comedy writer Sara Gibbs.

Former publishing director Sarah Emsley acquired world rights from Rowan Lawton at the Soho Agency, for publication in autumn 2023; assistant editor Priyal Agrawal will be publishing the title.

Eight Bright Lights follows three young women over the eight days of Hanukkah and "the clock is ticking, and getting their happily ever after might just take a miracle". Hannah finds herself in Tel Aviv after the death of her father, picking up the pieces of his life in time for her cousin’s wedding. Bride-to-be Rachel is preoccupied with securing her dream writing career when an article unlocks a long-held family secret. Meanwhile, spontaneously quitting her job was not wedding planner Ella’s idea. "Left with only one client⁠—and no money⁠—how will she pull this wedding together, when everything else is falling apart?"

Agrawal said: “From the very first page, Eight Bright Lights sparkles. Its three heroines had me hooked into their world full of friendship, romance and several hilarious mishaps. Utterly charming and uplifting, it is everything a reader could want in a wonderful festive romance.”

Gibbs’ radio and TV comedy credits include "Dead Ringers", "The News Quiz" and "Have I Got News for You"; her memoir, Drama Queen, was published by Headline in 2021. She said: “Writing a romantic comedy has been the big lifelong dream."