One More Chapter does four-book deal with Barker

HarperCollins division One More Chapter has acquired four new titles from Sandy Barker, including standalone romcom The Dating Game.

World all language rights were acquired from Lina Langlee at the North Literary Agency. The Dating Game will be published in e-book in September 2021, followed by a paperback at the end of the year.

The synopsis reads: "Abby Jones is a serious writer. Or at least she will be, one day. Right now, she spends her time writing recaps of reality television under a secret identity. When a recap for 'The Stag', the must-watch dating show, goes viral, her editor thinks she should be on set, writing the drama as it happens. The good news: the next season will be filmed in Sydney. Sun, sea and a glamorous trip abroad, this could be Abby’s big break.

"The bad news: the producers don’t just want Abby to write the recaps, they want her to be on the show. Abby can’t think of anything worse than being undercover and followed around by cameras. But her career depends on it, and when she meets gorgeous producer Jack, Abby begins to wonder if this job might not be so bad after all..."

Jennie Rothwell, commissioning editor at One More Chapter, said: "Sandy’s writing is an absolute joy, she knows exactly how to create the perfect escapist romantic comedy. I’m delighted to be publishing The Dating Game. If you love reality television or just want to nosey at what goes on behind the scenes, this is the book for you!" 

Barker commented: "I am beyond thrilled to have signed with One More Chapter for another four books and to work with my new editor, the incredible Jennie Rothwell. Romantic travel fiction has been a wonderful escape for many readers in recent times, including me, and I feel privileged to be sharing more fun and escapist reads with readers, including two new titles in the Holiday Romance series."