Hodder triumphs in six-way auction for Burton’s ‘darkly compelling’ fantasy duology

Hodder & Stoughton has landed a “mesmerising” young adult fantasy duology in a six-way auction from début author Gabi Burton. 

Molly Powell, editorial director, acquired UK and Commonwealth rights from Jennifer Choi, associate rights director at Bloomsbury US. The first instalment, Sing Me to Sleep, will be published by Hodder and Bloomsbury US simultaneously in June 2023. 

Naomi Davis, Burton’s agent, commented: “We’re delighted to see Hodder become the UK publishing home for Sing Me to Sleep. For an agent, knowing my client’s publishing team is as enthusiastic about her work as I am is the dream. We’ve certainly found that with Hodder’s unparalleled excitement for Gabi’s books, and can’t wait to see how they bring this beautiful story to readers.”

Sing Me to Sleep follows a murderous siren whose very existence is illegal as she is forced to work with the prince she hates to hunt a deadly killer – herself. 

Powell said: “This book is truly something special: completely absorbing, with a darkly compelling and refreshing voice, a seductive romance, twists and turns aplenty, and a masterful exploration of beauty, monstrosity and choice. I am over the moon that Gabi has chosen Hodder as the home for Sing Me to Sleep, and I cannot wait to launch her as a brilliant new voice in fantasy!”

Burton added: “I am absolutely thrilled that Sing Me to Sleep has found its perfect UK home. This book means so much to me and I can’t wait to see it resonate with readers around the world. Molly and the entire Hodderscape team are a dream to work with. Their endless enthusiasm for this story makes me even more excited to share it with UK readers and beyond.”