Simon & Schuster bags fantasy trilogy inspired by Japanese folklore in 'major' pre-empt

Simon & Schuster UK has acquired The Rainshadow Orphans plus two untitled novels in a Japanese folklore inspired fantasy series by Naomi Ishiguro.

Charlotte Trumble, commissioning editor, adult fiction, bought world all-language rights from Peter Straus at Rogers, Coleridge & White in a "major" pre-empt. The three-book deal was struck in partnership with Joe Monti at Saga Press US and Anthea Bariamis at S&S Australia. The series will be a simultaneous global publication. Deals for translation rights have already been made in 20 territories so far, including Italy, Brazil, China, Spain and Germany.

The Rainshadow Orphans will be published in hardback in Spring 2026 as a major lead title for S&S globally. It is the first in a "dazzling" epic fantasy trilogy inspired by Japanese folklore and Studio Ghibli, and is set within an imagined archipelago. At once mythical and modern, it is a place brimming with dragons and Sun Spirits, high-tech hackers and bubble tea.

The novel follows three inhabitants of Rainshadow City: Toshiko, a young woman looking for revenge for her aunt’s murder by criminal organisation the Lucky Crows; Haru, the son of the Emperor, destined to one day rule over the Archipelago and uphold his mother’s ignoble legacy; and Theo, an immigrant who was forced to leave his homeland and who is now a reluctant foot-soldier for the Lucky Crows.

When Toshiko steals a dragon pearl from the leader of the Crows, it sets them all on a thrilling path which will determine the future of Rainshadow City. Set across two days and populated with unforgettable characters, the novel blends fantasy and science fiction to explore what it means to stand up to corruption and take charge of destiny.

Charlotte Trumble said: "As soon as I started reading The Rainshadow Orphans I was right there in Naomi’s world and completely obsessed. This novel gives you the feeling of watching a Ghibli movie, with all the darkness, heart and magic that they convey, whilst also being a unique and exciting story which contains so many ingredients that us fantasy readers adore. The Rainshadow Orphans has a very special place in my heart and I’m ecstatic to be able to work with Naomi on this wonderful series and to introduce UK readers to my new favourite characters in Toshiko, Haru and Theo."

Naomi Ishiguro said: "I’m beyond delighted to be working with Charlotte, Joe, Anthea and the teams at Simon and Schuster UK, Saga Press and S&S Australia for this trilogy, as well as with so many wonderful international publishers. I had the best time dreaming up the fantasy world and imagined society of The Rainshadow Orphans, and have long been excited for readers to join me in all the fun. It feels like unbelievable good fortune to now have such brilliant publisher-accomplices to make that happen!"