Mantle signs Shipping Forecast-inspired debut in two-book deal

Pan Mac imprint Mantle has landed the Shipping Forecast-inspired debut novel from Sue Teddern in a two-book deal.

Associate publisher Sam Humphreys acquired world rights to Annie Stanley, All at Sea from Gaia Banks at Sheil Land, for publication in 2021.

The novel follows Annie, whose father has just died and whose ashes she decides to take – without the rest of her family’s consent – on a tour of the 31 sea areas that make up Radio 4’s Shipping Forecast, which she and her father used to listen to together.

Humphreys said: “This is Sue’s first novel, but she’s an accomplished and wonderfully engaging story teller, having previously written for both radio and TV, and that shines through on every page. I was immediately invested in Annie Stanley and her madcap idea to take her recently deceased father on one final journey. Annie Stanley, All at Sea is, at its heart (and it has plenty of that), a love story, encompassing romantic love, family love, and a very British love for the institution that is the Shipping Forecast. Sue writes with sympathy, warmth and wit about universal themes – and I can't wait to introduce Annie Stanley to the world.”

Teddern added: “I couldn't be happier that Sam will publish my first novel; she’s been brilliant to work with. My heroine, Annie Stanley, may be all at sea but I am very well anchored at Mantle.”