HoZ bags Múñez’s 'sumptuous' historical novel

Head of Zeus has acquired The Cook of Castamar, a historical fiction novel of “conspiracy, love and heartbreak" by Fernando J Múñez.  

Commissioning editor Rosie de Courcy obtained world English rights to the novel from Jordi Ribolleda on behalf of the IMC literary agency in Spain. The book is planned for publication on the  Apollo fiction list in 2023, in hardback, paperback and e-book.

Since the title was first published in Spain in 2019, the international rights have been sold to more than 10 countries. Netflix’s adaptation of the story, starring Michelle Jenner, Roberto Enriquez and Hugo Silva, is available to watch now.

The novel follows the agoraphobic cook Clara Belmonte and widowed nobleman Don Diego de Castamar in 18th century Madrid. It is Múñez’s first novel, after publishing nearly 50 books for children and young adult audiences since 2002.

“I have always loved epic historical fiction and this for me has absolutely everything,” said de Courcy. “A sumptuous background, as fascinating cast of characters enmeshed in treachery and intrigue, and a subtly depicted love story, all set in a period of history so widely beloved by readers.”

The author added: “I have travelled many times to Pemberley while writing The Cook of Castamar and the story of its protagonist, Clara Belmonte. Now, I will no longer be alone in this dream, for Clara Belmonte will be able to know all of England and its countryside; to share with its good people the aroma of her rapturous vocation, surrounded by lords and footmen, by betrayals and unbreakable friendships, by intrigues, by courage and self-improvement, all cooked over a slow heat and with the dedication of the best and most succulent dishes.”