S&S UK pre-empts novel from Williams

Simon & Schuster UK has pre-empted The Seven Daughters of Dupree and an untitled second novel by Emmy award-winning producer, author and podcast host Nikesha Elise Williams.

Editor Judith Long acquired UK and Commonwealth rights from Lucy Luck at C&W. North American rights were pre-empted by Alison Callahan at Scout Press from Peter Steinberg at United Talent Agency. 

The Seven Daughters of Dupree, which will be published in 2025 as a lead title, follows seven generations of women who share a legacy that is passed down from mother to daughter and the secrets kept between them over a period of 150 years.

Long said: “This incredible novel took my breath away from the very first page. It’s a fascinating look at how Black women’s lives have been constrained by society and how that’s changed over the years, but also a deeply compelling family story showing how the experiences of one generation reverberate through the lives of those who follow. The love between these women is so powerful and moving, and I can’t wait for readers to fall in love with these wonderful characters just as much as we have.”

Williams added: “I wrote this book at the lowest point in my life. All I had were these words, this story, and these women who invaded my dreams day and night and demanded I write. I am filled with immense gratitude that what has poured out of me in pain has found intense champions and hopefully soon, an audience of readers who will love them as fiercely as they loved me.”