Magpie swoops for Reichl's 'gorgeously uplifting' novel

Magpie Books has snapped up The Paris Novel, a "gorgeously uplifting novel about living – and eating – deliciously’", from food writer and former restaurant critic Ruth Reichl. 

Commissioning editor Polly Hatfield acquired UK and British Commonwealth rights, excluding Canada, from Stephen Morrison at Susanna Lea Associates on behalf of Kathy Robbins at The Robbins Office. The novel will be published as a paperback original in May 2024. 

The Paris Novel follows cautious Stella who arrives in Paris and continues old habits, avoiding people and keeping to strict routines. When she meets an octogenarian art collector, her time in Paris begins to change as they discover food, fashion and art and uncover secrets about Stella’s past.

Hatfield said: "I devoured The Paris Novel. It’s the ultimate feelgood read: escapist, warm and full of Ruth’s trademark irresistible food writing. Her love for the fashion, art and cuisine of Paris comes through on every page of this wonderfully uplifting story."

Reichl added: "Writing The Paris Novel was the most fun I’ve ever had, and I can’t think of a happier place for it to be than Magpie. How perfect for this fantasy to be in the company of books by so many of my favourite authors."