Headline strikes fresh three-book deal with Jodi Taylor

Headline has struck a new three-book deal with Jodi Taylor, the author of the Chronicles of St Mary’s series.

Frankie Edwards, commissioning editor at Headline, acquired world rights (all languages), including film and TV, in three new titles from Hazel Cushion at Rushford Literary Agency, continuing both the Chronicles of St Mary’s and spin-off series, The Time Police. Plan for the Worst will be published in paperback and e-book in April 2020. Hard Time will be published in hardback, e-book and audiobook in October 2020.

Taylor chose Headline as her new publishing home at the end of 2018. Since then, Headline editions of her books have sold over 140,000 copies, with 16 international rights deals struck, according to the publisher.

The Chronicles of St Mary’s series follows a group of disaster-prone historians investigating major historical events in contemporary time. The Time Police (Doing Time) launched in October 2019 as a St Mary’s spin-off and "gateway into the world of an all-powerful, international organisation who are nothing like St Mary’s. Except, when they are".

Edwards said: "It’s been a whirlwind first year publishing Jodi and seeing her star rise even higher. Working with a writer with such a flair for funny, creative and masterful storytelling is a joy, and the immense love for Jodi’s books amongst her readers is palpable–and contagious! I’m absolutely delighted to have signed three more novels and to have such an exciting St Mary’s and Time Police-shaped future mapped out together."

Cushion said: "Headline hit the ground running and it is exciting to see Jodi’s books reaching new readers, especially with her invitation to the 2020 Discworld Convention."

Taylor added: "I’m thrilled to be taking the St Mary’s disaster magnets and unruly Time Police recruits off on more adventures, and am constantly amazed and delighted that people want to read my books as much as I want to write them. It really seems too good to be true. All thanks to Headline who are keeping everyone happy."