Hodderscape seizes first fantasy book from Grace Curtis

Hodderscape has snapped up a two-book deal with Grace Curtis for her first fantasy novel, Idolfire. 

Publishing director Molly Powell acquired UK and Commonwealth rights from Zoë Plant at the Bent Agency. North American rights have been signed by Astra Publishing. Idolfire will be published in March 2025. 

Billed as an "epic" Sapphic fantasy that "draws inspiration from the ancient world", Idolfire follows two women, Aleya and Kirby. The synopsis continues: "Two women are crossing the world: Aleya is desperate for a chance, Kirby is desperate for redemption. And both believe they will find it in Nivela, a city once poised to conquer the world with the power of a thousand gods. Now the gates are closed and the old magic slumbers. Dead—or waiting for a spark to light it anew." 

Curtis has previously written two science-fiction novels, The Floating Hotel and Frontier, both published by Hodderscape. 

"Idolfire has been a dream project of mine for a long time now," commented Curtis. "Honestly, I can’t believe it’s going to be real—this mad, ambitious, deeply nerdy, deeply gay thing that has sat in the back of my mind for years. It’s a hell of a thrill. And I am so genuinely blessed and delighted to be working with Hodderscape once again, they’re the best collaborators a writer could wish (or pray) for."

Powell added: "Grace writes gorgeously deft, endlessly inventive, and incredibly empathetic books, and Idolfire is no exception, with a stunning setting inspired by the ancient world, and two heroines you root for every step of their journey. I am in awe of her talent, and over the moon to be publishing this brilliant step into epic fantasy."