Kitty Neale returns to Orion in three book deal

Kitty Neale will return to Orion after 15 years in a three-book, six-figure deal. The move marks the end of the author's time at Avon where she has published 20 books. 

Victoria Oundjian, commissioning editor at Orion Fiction, acquired world English rights to the three new titles from Judith Murdoch at the Judith Murdoch Literary Agency. 

Orion previously published Neale's Outcast Child and A Cuckoo in Candle Lane in 2004 and 2005 respectively. A Mother's Secret, the first title in The Battersea Tavern series, will be published in 2021 and will bring readers into the bustling world of a Battersea Tavern on the cusp of the Second World War.

Oundjian said: "I have been a long-time fan of the incredible Kitty Neale. She never shies away from the realities of life for people (especially women) in the past, but always manages to show that strength, hope and kindness are there – you just need to know where to look for them. Kitty is a powerhouse author and the team are so excited to be working with her to establish Kitty Neale as a major commercial saga brand and cannot wait to introduce readers to The Battersea Tavern."

Neale commented: "I’m thrilled to be back at Orion and delighted to work with Victoria. I feel that Orion will take my books from strength to strength. Working on The Battersea Tavern series has been a pleasure and now I’m excited for publication day of A Mother’s Secret. I believe my readers will really enjoy the story."