JABberwocky - Zeno Agency Ltd.

UK Paperback of Grady Hendrix’s HOW TO SELL A HAUNTED HOUSE Out Tomorrow!

Posted on Monday, January 15th, 2024

Tomorrow, Titan Books are due to published the UK paperback edition of Grady Hendrix‘s acclaimed HOW TO SELL A HAUNTED HOUSE! Among many other commendations, the novel was a #5 bestseller when first released, an Indie Next Pick, a Goodreads Choice Award finalist, and was selected as a Best of 2023 by LA Public Library. Here’s the synopsis…

When Louise finds out her parents have died, she dreads going home. She doesn’t want to leave her daughter with her ex and fly to Charleston. She doesn’t want to deal with her family home, stuffed to the rafters with the remnants of her father’s academic career and her mother’s lifelong obsession with puppets and dolls. She doesn’t want to learn how to live without the two people who knew and loved her best in the world.

Mostly, she doesn’t want to deal with her brother, Mark, who never left their hometown, gets fired from one job after another, and resents her success. But she’ll need his help to get the house ready for sale because it’ll take more than some new paint on the walls and clearing out a lifetime of memories to get this place on the market.

Some houses don’t want to be sold…

Here are just a few of the great review the novel has received so far…

‘Hendrix’s horror novels are a gateway drug to the genre…. By weaving violence, family trauma and humor, Hendrix creates a texture that engages the reader emotionally and viscerally.’ — New York Times

‘Hendrix is a contemporary horror master, and the combination of profound storytelling and unapologetic, campy gore he delivers here will surely have horror fans reading with a gleeful smile on their faces.’ — NPR

‘A must-have for any library that will appeal to a broad audience. Hendrix is a best-seller for a reason, and this new novel shows he is only getting better with age.’ — Library Journal (Starred Review)

‘With strong connections to twenty-first century classics […] Hendrix’s book sets the high watermark for horror in 2023.’ — Booklist (Starred Review)

‘Grief, generational trauma, and some sinister puppets animate this wildly entertaining haunted house tale from bestseller Hendrix […] This is a gem.’ — Publishers Weekly

‘Warm up the VCR and fire up the air popper for a most bitchin’ horror story by a gifted practitioner of these dark arts.’ — Kirkus

‘In HOW TO SELL A HAUNTED HOUSE, Hendrix, with relentless efficiency — and a bit of humor — forces us to confront our fears.’ — Washington Post

‘Hendrix’s latest, How to Sell a Haunted House, is the near-perfect distillation of this form: a novel that is both very funny and truly scary.’ — Locus

‘If you don’t have a doll phobia, don’t worry — you’ll develop one.’ — SFX Magazine

‘What follows is classic Grady Hendrix: an authentically frightening, genuinely funny reconfiguration of what a haunted house can be.’ — Esquire

‘[A] searing look at grief, trauma, and how the things that haunt us aren’t always supernatural.’ — Rolling Stone

Zeno represents Grady Hendrix in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

Coming Soon: THE DOORS OF MIDNIGHT by R.R. Virdi (UK Edition)!

Posted on Friday, January 12th, 2024

Gollancz recently unveiled the details for the UK edition of THE DOORS OF MIDNIGHT, the second novel in R.R. Virdi‘s acclaimed Tales of Tremaine epic fantasy series! Due to be published on August 15th, here’s the synopsis…

Some stories are hidden for a reason. All tales have a price. And every debt must be paid.

I killed three men as a child and earned myself the name Bloodletter. Then I set fire to the fabled Ashram. I’ve been a bird and robbed a merchant king of a ransom of gold. And I have crossed desert sands and cutthroat alleys to repay my debt.

I’ve stood before the eyes of god, faced his judgement, and cast aside the thousand arrows that came with it. And I have passed through the Doors of Midnight and lived to tell the tale.

I have traded one hundred and one stories with a creature as old as time, and survived with only my cleverness, a candle, and a broken promise.

And most recently of all, I have killed a prince, though the stories say I have killed more than one.

My name is Ari. These are my legends.

And these are my lies.

The first book in the series, THE FIRST BINDING, is out now in paperback — also published by Gollancz.

Here are just a few of the many great reviews THE FIRST BINDING has received…

‘An ode to storytelling, complete with a rich mythology, turbulent adventures, and a flawed hero you’ll root for… Approached with patience, this epic fantasy will satisfy any fan of the genre.’ — Kirkus

‘THE FIRST BINDING is the first volume in a new magnificent and ambitious high fantasy series to obsess over.’ — Novel Notions

‘R.R. Virdi’s THE FIRST BINDING is engrossing and beautiful, joyous and painful—always entertaining, sometimes profound. This book makes me remember why I love epic fantasy.’ — Kevin J. Anderson, New York Times bestselling coauthor of Dune: House Atreides

‘Crafted with patience, passion, and most importantly, tremendous love. Read R.R. Virdi!’ — Jim Butcher, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Dresden Files

‘Virdi has created a rich world where he lays out his magic system thoroughly and requires his characters to work within it. This isn’t the magic of a chosen one, plucked out of obscurity and given a great power. No, this magic is work and was learned through sacrifice and necessity.’ — Booklist

‘[T]he pattern woven by the recurring elements is beguiling. You’ll want to sit down with this Storyteller again.’ — SFX Magazine

Zeno represents R.R. Virdi in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

UNTAMED SHORE UK Paperback Out Next Month!

Posted on Tuesday, January 9th, 2024

Next month, Jo Fletcher Books is due to publish the UK paperback edition of Silvia Moreno-Garcia‘s acclaimed UNTAMED SHORE! Here’s the synopsis…

From Silvia Moreno-Garcia, the New York Times bestselling author of MEXICAN GOTHIC (July 2020) and VELVET WAS THE NIGHT (August 2021), comes UNTAMED SHORE, a dark cocktail mixing a nuanced coming-of-age story with a classical noir.

Baja California, 1979: Viridiana spends her days under the harsh sun, watching the fishermen pulling in their nets and the dead sharks piled beside the seashore. Her head is filled with dreams of romance, travel and of a future beyond this drab town where her only option is to marry and have children.

When a wealthy American writer arrives with his wife and brother-in-law, Viridiana jumps at the offer of a job as his assistant, and she’s soon entangled in the glamorous foreigners’ lives. They offer excitement, and perhaps an escape from her humdrum life. When one of them dies, eager to protect her new friends, Viridiana lies – but soon enough, someone’s asking questions. It’s not long before Viridiana has some of her own questions about the identities of her new acquaintances.

Sharks may be dangerous, but there are worse predators nearby, ready to devour a naïve young woman unwittingly entangled in a web of deceit.

Here are just a few of the many great reviews the novel has received so far…

‘This thriller sets a quiet tone before building slowly and evenly, showing how a meek teenager trapped by circumstance grows into a strong woman who takes control of her future.’ — Library Journal (Starred Review)

‘This insightful look at criminal lifefrom the viewpoint of a sardonic yet lonely soul seems destined for more plaudits.’ — Booklist (Starred Review)

‘Silvia Moreno-Garcia jumps into the Noir genre… Brutality takes on an almost divine quality‘ — L.A. Review of Books

‘The Great Gatsby meets Night of the Iguana in this elegantly spare and darkly twisted story of undercurrents, deception, and colliding cultures.’ — Hank Phillipi Ryan

‘Atmospheric, compelling, and very suspenseful.’ — Alison Gaylin

‘[This] compelling crime debut […] is a small masterpiece and presages well for Moreno-Garcia if she continues on a criminal path.’ — Crime Time

‘This is a really good slow-burn suspense novel […] if you like character driven suspense, and are looking for an interesting setting you’ve probably never read before, definitely pick this one up!’ — Book Riot

‘[I]t’s measured, thought-provoking and darkly fascinating, the sort of insightful character study that Moreno-Garcia does so well, full of characters who are largely irredeemable but – in spite or perhaps because of this – utterly believable. Psychologically complex and darkly satisfying, it’s an absolutely fascinating, compelling read.’ — Track of Words

‘While it is a slower paced novel, the focus on atmosphere and character development make it a compelling one. Moreno-Garcia once more draws the reader into her Mexico and presents a rich and vivid world.’ — Grimdark Magazine

Zeno represents Silvia Moreno-Garcia in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

A FIRE BORN OF EXILE Audiobook Out Tomorrow in North America!

Posted on Monday, January 8th, 2024

Tomorrow, Podium are due to publish the North American audiobook edition of Aliette de Bodard‘s latest acclaimed Xuya novel, A FIRE BORN OF EXILE! Narrated by Tuyen Do, here’s the synopsis…

The Scattered Pearls Belt is a string of habitats on the edge of a huge galactic empire—a glittering, decadent society rife with corruption.

Now, one of its victims—Quỳnh, a scholar betrayed and left for dead—has come back for her revenge under the guise of the glamorous and enigmatic Alchemist of Streams and Hills.

Quỳnh’s path intersects that of Minh—the daughter of one of her oldest enemies, who chafes at her own lack of freedom—and of Hoà, a near-destitute engineer who poses a threat to all Quỳnh’s careful plans. Quỳnh finds herself inexorably attracted to Hoà, even as her plans upend the fragile political equilibrium of the Belt.

Falling in love wasn’t part of Quỳnh’s plans. Will she be able to grasp this second chance at happiness, or will she cling to a revenge that may well consume her whole?

A poignant, heartwarming, romantic space opera about love, revenge, and the weight of the past.

Podium also publishes the audiobook of Aliette’s highly-acclaimed THE RED SCHOLAR’S WAKE, also set in the Xuya universe (narrated by Aoife Hinds).

A FIRE BORN OF EXILE is published in print and eBook by Gollancz (UK) and JABberwocky (North America). The UK audiobook editions are also published by Gollancz (same narrators).

A FIRE BORN OF EXILE was selected as a Tor.com Reviewers’ Choice: Best of 2023. Here are just a few of the reviews the novel has received so far…

‘… intricate and emotional standalone space opera… de Bodard’s worldbuilding dazzles… a touching sci-fi romance that will delight fans and new readers alike.’ — Publishers Weekly (Starred Review)

‘Incredible… This is a world of dizzying tech, gorgeous illusions and twisty political thrills — catnip for readers who enjoyed Ann Leckie’s Imperial Radch trilogy or Jacqueline Koyanagi’s “Ascension.”’ — New York Times

‘[A]n elaborate tale of revenge, courtly machinations, filial relationships, and a romance… As usual in the Xuya stories, de Bodard weaves a solid adventure; this stands alone and so might be a perfect introduction to the series.’ — Booklist

‘A tense, accomplished space opera, told with de Bodard’s usual vividness and verve.’ — Locus

‘As always, Aliette’s prose is impactful, and the relationships and emotional arcs of the characters are doubly so.’ — Lynne M. Thomas, co-editor of Uncanny Magazine

Coming Soon: SERVITEUR DES ENFERS by Aliette de Bodard!

Posted on Thursday, January 4th, 2024

This March, Mnémos is due to publish a new French edition of Aliette de Bodard‘s debut novel, SERVANT OF THE UNDERWORLD! To be published as SERVITEUR DES ENFERS, it was translated by Laurent Philibert-Caillat. Here’s the synopsis…

A Tenochtitlan, la capitale des Aztèques, les sacrifices humains sont les seules choses qui maintiennent le soleil dans le ciel et la terre fertile. Quand une prêtresse disparaît, Acatl, grand prêtre des morts, enquête. Il découvre que son ancien frère est impliqué, et, en creusant, est entraîné dans les intrigues politiques et magiques des nobles, des soldats, des prêtres et des dieux eux-mêmes.

The Obsidian & Blood trilogy is published in English by JABberwocky: SERVANT OF THE UNDERWORLD, HARBINGER OF THE STORM, and MASTER OF THE HOUSE OF DARTS. Here’s the English-language synopsis for the first book…

Year One-Knife, Tenochtitlan the capital of the Aztecs. Human sacrifice and the magic of the living blood are the only things keeping the sun in the sky and the earth fertile.

A Priestess disappears from an empty room drenched in blood. It should be a usual investigation for Acatl, High Priest of the Dead — except that his estranged brother is involved, and the the more he digs, the deeper he is drawn into the political and magical intrigues of noblemen, soldiers, and priests-and of the gods themselves…

Here are just a few of the great reviews the series has received…

‘A gripping mystery steeped in blood and ancient Aztec magic. I was enthralled.’ — Sean Williams

‘Part murder mystery, part well-researched historical novel and part fantasy… The fantasy element blends neatly with the other parts. 4*’ — SFX Magazine

‘An Aztec priest of the dead tries to solve a murder mystery, and finds that politics may be even more powerful than magic. A vivid portrayal of an interesting culture in a truly fresh fantasy novel.’ — Kevin J. Anderson (New York Times bestselling author)

‘Amid the mud and maize of the Mexica empire, Aliette de Bodard has composed a riveting story of murder, magic and sibling rivalry.’ — Elizabeth Bear

‘From page one I was drawn into Acatl’s world… a remarkable historically-based fantasy, using the myths and legends of the Aztec people as a background to a twisting murder mystery.’ — Speculative Book Review

‘The world-building is exquisite and we *believe* we are transported to the 15th century Tenotichtlan and together with the superb voice they formed the main reason I enjoyed this book so much… Highly recommended… Ms. de Bodard is a writer to watch.’ — Fantasy Book Critic

‘SERVANT OF THE UNDERWORLD is a highly original debut novel. Thanks to a solid mystery plot and Aliette de Bodard’s extensive research into pre-Conquest Meso-America, this novel should strike a chord with more than just fantasy readers.’ — FantasyLiterature.com

‘The book starts out a slow, steady pace and builds momentum from there. It’s not some huge action scene that hooks you. It’s the atmosphere. The blood spilled to gain favor from the gods. The cultural details Bodard infuses in each moment.’ — Examiner.com

Aliette’s latest novel is the widely-acclaimed A FIRE BORN OF EXILE, which is published by Gollancz (UK) and JABberwocky (elsewhere in English).

DIE CHRONIKEN VON AMBER Audiobook Out Now in Germany!

Posted on Friday, December 29th, 2023

There’s a new Chronicles of Amber omnibus audiobook edition available in Germany! Published by DAV, it collects the first five novels in Roger Zelazny‘s classic, beloved fantasy series. The audiobook is narrated by Stefan Kaminski. Here’s the synopsis for DIE CHRONIKEN VON AMBER…

In der Welt, die Roger Zelaznys Bestsellerreihe zugrunde liegt, herrscht Chaos. Den einzigen Fluchtpunkt der dunklen Unendlichkeit stellt Amber dar, eine mittelalterliche Stadt, die als »wirkliche Stadt« des Universums gilt. Um dieses Zentrum herum konstituieren sich Nachbildungen von Amber als Schattenwelten, die, je ferner von der wahren Stadt entfernt, frei von physikalischen Gesetzen sind. Nur der mächtigen Königsfamilie um Herrscher Oberon ist es möglich, die verschiedenen Realitäten der Schattenwelten zu manipulieren – zu denen auch die Erde gehört. »Die Chroniken von Amber« sind ein Meilenstein der Literaturgeschichte und machen Roger Zelazny zu einem der einflussreichsten Fantasy-Autoren des zwanzigsten Jahrhunderts. Nach der erfolgreichen Neuauflage der Buchreihe, sind nun auch die Hörbücher zu den ersten fünf Bänden, dem »Corwin-Zyklus«, als ungekürzte Lesungen bei DAV erhältlich.

Band 1: »Die neun Prinzen«

Corwin erwacht in einer dubiosen Privatklinik und kann sich weder vergangener Ereignisse, noch seiner eigenen Identität entsinnen. Nach und nach findet er heraus: Sein Bruder Eric hat ihn in die Schattenwelt verbannt. Denn Corwin ist Teil der Königsfamilie von Amber – und damit in einen unerbittlichen Machtkampf um den Königsthron verstrickt.

Band 2: »Die Gewehre von Avalon«

Corwin bricht aus der Gefangenschaft seines Bruders aus und kehrt erneut zurück zur Erde. Dort lässt er Waffen fertigen und schart Truppen um sich, mit deren Hilfe er Eric endlich vom Thron stürzen will. Doch als er mit seiner Armee die Schattenwelten durchquert, muss er herausfinden, dass grausame Kreaturen ganz Amber zu vernichten drohen…

Band 3: »Im Zeichen des Einhorns«

Nach einem erfolgreichen Kampf ist Corwin Herrscher von Amber. Doch als sein Bruder Cain ermordet wird, weisen alle Zeichen auf Corwin als Täter – bis er kurz darauf selbst Opfer eines perfiden Anschlags wird. Wer steckt wirklich hinter den grausamen Verbrechen?

Band 4: »Die Hand Oberons«

»Das Muster« ist ein Labyrinth, das den Prinzen Ambers die Kraft verleiht, durch die Schattenwelten zu reisen. Wer es betritt, muss das Muster bis zu seinem Zentrum beschreiten – sonst droht ein grausamer Tod. Doch als die Prinzen diesmal dorthin zurückkehren, müssen sie feststellen, dass das Muster beschädigt ist. Corwins Bruder Brand steckt dahinter und will das Muster zerstören, aber das hätte fatale Folgen.

Band 5: »Die Burgen des Chaos«

Das Vernichten des Musters bedeutet das Ende von Amber – und mit ihm das Ende aller Schattenwelten, wie auch der Erde. Corwin will seinen Bruder aufhalten und eine Kopie des Labyrinths anfertigen – ein Vorhaben, das in einem finalen Kampf der beiden Brüder endet, welcher über das Schicksal Ambers entscheiden wird…

The first five novels are also available in print and digital, published by Die Hobbit Presse, an imprint of Klett-Cotta. The novels are also available in a Gold Edition collected eBook. The series was translated into Germany by Thomas Schlück.

The Chronicles of Amber series is available in the UK, published by Gollancz as part of their SF Masterworks series; the ten novels are collected into two omnibus editions. Here’s the English-language synopsis for the first collection (which also includes books 1-5)…

Amber is the one real world, casting infinite reflections of itself – Shadow worlds, that can be manipulated by those of royal Amberite blood. But the royal family is torn apart by jealousies and suspicion; the disappearance of the Patriarch Oberon has intensified the internal conflict by leaving the throne apparently up for grabs.

In a hospital on the Shadow Earth, a young man is recovering from a freak car accident; amnesia has robbed him of all his memory, even the fact that he is Corwin, Crown Prince of Amber, rightful heir to the throne – and he is in deadly peril…

The five books, Nine Princes in Amber, The Guns of Avalon, Sign of the Unicorn, The Hand of Oberon and The Courts of Chaos, together make up The Chronicles of Amber, Roger Zelazny’s finest work of fantasy and an undisputed classic of the genre.

Coming Soon: New UK Paperback Edition of TRESS OF THE EMERALD SEA!

Posted on Thursday, December 21st, 2023

The UK paperback edition of Brandon Sanderson‘s TRESS OF THE EMERALD SEA is due out next year! The first of Sanderson’s Secret Projects novels, it is due to be published by Gollancz, on April 2nd, 2024. The cover is the same as the re-issued UK hardcover edition. Here’s the synopsis…

Brandon Sanderson brings us deeper into the Cosmere Universe with a standalone adventure that will appeal to fans of The Princess Bride.

The only life Tress has known on her island home in an emerald-green ocean has been a simple one, with the simple pleasures of collecting cups brought by sailors from faraway lands and listening to stories told by her friend Charlie. But when his father takes him on a voyage to find a bride and disaster strikes, Tress must stow away on a ship and seek the Sorceress of the deadly Midnight Sea. Amid the spore oceans where pirates abound, can Tress leave her simple life behind and make her own place sailing a sea where a single drop of water can mean instant death?

Gollancz also publishes the other three Secret Projects novels: THE FRUGAL WIZARD’S HANDBOOK FOR SURVIVING MEDIEVAL ENGLAND, YUMI AND THE NIGHTMARE PAINTER, and THE SUNLIT MAN (March 2024).

Zeno represents Brandon Sanderson in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

SOHO ÜZERİNDE AY by Ben Aaronovitch Out Now in Turkey!

Posted on Friday, December 15th, 2023

MOON OVER SOHO, the second Rivers of London novel by Ben Aaronovitch, is out now in a new Turkish edition! Published by Epsilon, as SOHO ÜZERİNDE AY, it was translated by Handan Haktanır. Here’s the synopsis…

Peter Grant geri döndü. Bir kez daha fantastik kurgu ve polisiye karışımı, sürükleyici bir üslup. Karanlık, büyülü, tüyler ürpertici, esprili, ilgi çekici ve benzersiz…

Ben Aaronovitch, açıkça taptığı bir şehrin sevimli ayrıntılarını yüzeye çıkarmada Londra Nehirleri`nin başarılı formülünü sürdürüyor.

Londra`nın Soho semtindeki Groucho Kulübü`nün tuvaletinde bir gazeteci vahşice öldürülmüştür. Soruşturmaya yardım etmesi için Londra Polis Teşkilatı Memuru Peter Grant çağrılır. Aynı zamanda Peter, performans sergiledikten kısa bir süre sonra meydana gelen amatör caz müzisyenlerinin bir dizi ölümünden rahatsızdır. Görünüşe göre doğal ölüm nedenlerine rağmen her vücut, Peter`ın ölümlerin doğal olmaktan uzak olduğuna inanmasına neden olan sihirli bir imza taşımaktadır.

Daha fazla araştırma, muhteşem bir performansın hemen ardından ölen tek caz sanatçısının Cyrus olmadığını ortaya koyar. Bu yetenekli adamların peşine düşen bir tür doğaüstü canlı var gibi görünmektedir ve Peter bunun nedenini, nasıl ve kim olduğunu bulmaya kararlıdır.

Eski biz caz sanatçısı olan Peter`ın babası tehlikede mi? Peter`ın kendisi tehlikede mi? Her durumda katiller kim ve Peter daha fazla zarar vermeden onların izini sürebilecek mi?

Soho Üzerinde Ay bu soruları yanıtlıyor ve kitabı okumanın keyfi, paranormal bir gizemi çözme süreci kadar Peter`ın anlatımında da kendini gösteriyor. Hikâye, esrarengiz konuları ele alırken zekâ ve mizahla harmanlanıyor.

MOON OVER SOHO is published in the UK by Gollancz, and is published in North America by JABberwocky. Here’s the English-language synopsis…

Body and Soul. The song. That’s what London constable and sorcerer’s apprentice Peter Grant first notices when he examines the corpse of Cyrus Wilkins, part-time jazz drummer and full-time accountant, who dropped dead of a heart attack while playing a gig at Soho’s 606 Club. The notes of the old jazz standard are rising from the body – a sure sign that something about the man’s death was not at all natural but instead supernatural.

Body and soul – they’re also what Peter will risk as he investigates a pattern of similar deaths in and around Soho. With the help of his superior officer, Detective Chief Inspector Thomas Nightingale, the last registered wizard in England, and the assistance of beautiful jazz aficionado Simone Fitzwilliam, Peter will uncover a deadly magical menace – one that leads right to his own doorstep and to the squandered promise of a young jazz musician: a talented trumpet player named Richard “Lord” Grant – otherwise known as Peter’s dear old dad.

‘… enormous storytelling gusto… exhilarating and emotionally affecting…’ — SF Reviews

‘The excitement and entertainment hasn’t stopped in the slightest… this book once again blew my mind, and kept me reading well into the late night/early morning. You needn’t pick up RIVERS OF LONDON, Aaronovitch’s first in this series, but you’d regret it by the time you got to the end of MOON OVER SOHO and found out how good it was.’ — Fantasy Book Review

‘… as funny as it is fantastic… [The plot] hops along happily to a toe-tapping time signature, with a sweet solo here and an awesome cacophony of noise there… vast amounts of fun…’ — Speculative Scotsman

‘A fantastic follow-up to MIDNIGHT RIOT. Aaronovitch does a great job of bringing even minor characters to life. One of Grant’s fellow cops, Leslie, plays a minor role throughout the story – but her involvement is an emotional cornerstone that brings a surprisingly bittersweet element into play… MOON OVER SOHO is an excellent addition to the paranormal police genre.’ — Examiner

‘MOON OVER SOHO is very good. Ben Aaronovitch continues the successful formula of RIVERS OF LONDON in bringing to the surface the endearing minutae of a city that he clearly adores. He also demonstrates the “real world” problems of a ritual magician trying to have some sort of ‘normal’ life… Grant continues to observe his world(s) in a detached way – a narrative voice that lends itself well to dry humor (and fits less neatly with the book’s few over-the-top action scenes). Mr. Aaronovitch is, in short, writing the best contemporary occult detective series on the shelf today, and that’s by a substantial margin.’ — Pornokitsch

Brandon Sanderson’s THE SUNLIT MAN UK Edition Out in March!

Posted on Monday, December 11th, 2023

In case you missed the reveal a little while back, we wanted to share the details for the fourth and final book in Brandon Sanderon‘s Secret Projects series: THE SUNLIT MAN! Due to be published on March 5th, 2024, here’s the synopsis…

Years ago he had comrades in arms and a cause to believe in, but now the man who calls himself Nomad knows only a life on the run. Forced to hop from world to world in the Cosmere whenever the relentless Night Brigade gets too close, Nomad lands on a new planet and is instantly caught up in the struggle between a tyrant and the rebels who want only to escape being turned into mindless slaves-all under the constant threat of a sunrise whose heat will melt the very stones. Unable to understand the language, can he navigate the conflict and gain enough power to leap offworld before his mind or body pay the ultimate price?

In addition to many of Brandon’s best-selling and acclaimed series and stand-alone books, Gollancz has also published the other three books from the Secret Projects (all out now):

TRESS OF THE EMERALD SEA
THE FRUGAL WIZARD’S HANDBOOK FOR SURVIVING MEDIEVAL ENGLAND
YUMI AND THE NIGHTMARE PAINTER.

Zeno represents Brandon Sanderson in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

A Couple Great Reviews of JAMES P. BLAYLOCK’s PENNIES FROM HEAVEN

Posted on Friday, December 8th, 2023

Just a quick post, today, to draw your attention to two recent reviews of James P. Blaylock‘s latest novel, PENNIES FROM HEAVEN. The novel is published by PS Publishing in the UK (above, left), and JABberwocky (above, righ) in North America. Before the reviews, though, here’s the synopsis…

With a 100-year storm threatening the southern California coast, Jane Larkin is approached by a strange, audacious woman who wants to invest much-needed money in Jane’s Old Orange Co-op. Meanwhile Jane’s husband Jerry discovers an ancient excavation beneath the Larkin home. On that ominous morning in autumn, shadows descend over the deceptively quiet neighborhoods of Old Orange, ushering in a flood of chaos, terror, and murder.

Ian Hunter had this to say about the novel, for the British Fantasy Society (who also included a nice mention for Tim Powers, who we also represent in the UK and Commonwealth)…

‘I would urge you to check both Blaylock and [Tim] Powers out if you haven’t already, as what we get here is another fantastic treat… Blaylock delivers a tale that is fun, fast and as furious as the storm that is gathering, populated by a great cast of main and supporting characters, ingenious plotting, a well-rounded sense of place, punctuated by desperate measures, dastardly deeds and a seasoning of black humour, oh, and a cute dog, which all adds up to an entertaining read. If you haven’t read Blaylock before – and he has published novels regularly since the early 1980s – this might be the perfect place.’

And here’s Paul Di Filippo, for Locus Magazine…

‘A new novel from Blaylock is a major occasion… With PENNIES, Blaylock is back in contemporary times, in the setting he loves so deeply and limns so well, small-town California… authentic pathos, romance, and comedy… The supernatural elements in the book are vital and well done (the eventual capture of the ghost is colorful and ingenious), but the spook stuff takes a backseat to the human dynamics, the caper aspect and the interpersonal hijinks. Blaylock has always had an affection for eccentrics, misfits and visionaries, and while Jane and Jerry are more “normal” and wholesome than his typical cast, they qualify as non-whitebread souls. As for Phibbs, Blaylock succeeds in creating a true monster. PENNIES is very cinematic… until Hollywood smartens up and drops bushels of money on Blaylock, you can run this great screwball caper as often as you want, in your own head!’

If you prefer your fiction delivered through your ears, PENNIES FROM HEAVEN is also available as an audiobook, published by W.F. Howes.

Deluxe UK Editions of Brandon Sanderson’s STORMLIGHT ARCHIVE Out Now!

Posted on Thursday, December 7th, 2023

You may have seen these books announced on Twitter, but we’re happy to report that the new, deluxe UK editions of Brandon Sanderson‘s first four Stormlight Archive are out now! Published by Gollancz, each book has sprayed edges and embossed hardcovers.

THE WAY OF KINGS
WORDS OF RADIANCE
OATHBRINGER
RHYTHM OF WAR

In case you are new to the series, here’s the synopsis for this new edition of THE WAY OF KINGS…

The Gollancz Emporium exclusive edition of The Way of Kings by fantasy superstar Brandon Sanderson. Available in a single volume and featuring an array of special finishes, this is the premium way to enter one of the most imaginative fantasy worlds ever conceived.

The Way of Kings, Book One of the Stormlight Archive, begins an incredible saga of epic proportion. Set in a high fantasy world like no other, the magic, history and scope of imagination will take your breath away.

Roshar is a world of stone and storms. Uncanny tempests of incredible power sweep across the rocky terrain so frequently that they have shaped ecology and civilization alike. Animals hide in shells, trees pull in branches, and grass retracts into the soilless ground. Cities are built only where the topography offers shelter.

It has been centuries since the fall of the ten consecrated orders known as the Knights Radiant, but their Shardblades and Shardplate remain: mystical swords and suits of armor that transform ordinary men into near-invincible warriors. Men trade kingdoms for Shardblades. Wars were fought for them, and won by them.

One such war rages on a ruined landscape called the Shattered Plains. There, Kaladin, who traded his medical apprenticeship for a spear to protect his little brother, has been reduced to slavery. In a war that makes no sense, where ten armies fight separately against a single foe, he struggles to save his men and to fathom the leaders who consider them expendable.

Brightlord Dalinar Kholin commands one of those other armies. Like his brother, the late king, he is fascinated by an ancient text called The Way of Kings. Troubled by over-powering visions of ancient times and the Knights Radiant, he has begun to doubt his own sanity.

Across the ocean, an untried young woman named Shallan seeks to train under an eminent scholar and notorious heretic, Dalinar’s niece, Jasnah. Though she genuinely loves learning, Shallan’s motives are less than pure. As she plans a daring theft, her research for Jasnah hints at secrets of the Knights Radiant and the true cause of the war.

The result of over ten years of planning, writing, and world-building, The Way of Kings is but the opening movement of the Stormlight Archive, a bold masterpiece in the making.

Speak again the ancient oaths:

Life before death.
Strength before weakness.
Journey before Destination.

… and return to men the Shards they once bore.

The Knights Radiant must stand again.

Here are some reviews of each of the four novels, as well as close-ups of the new editions…

‘Sanderson is a master […] Fans and lovers of epic fantasy will find the ending satisfying, yet will eagerly await the next volume.’ — Library Journal on THE WAY OF KINGS

‘Sanderson is […] absolutely amazing at worldbuilding. The level of detail is just astonishing […] Kaladin and Shallan’s stories are compelling and readable.’ — RT Book Reviews on THE WAY OF KINGS

‘A classic story of intrigue, magic and war, with a large cast of characters and multiple settings lovingly detailed in a way only possible in volumes of this size […] There’s wit, magic and erudition […] Readers will plunge into it.’ — Booklist on THE WAY OF KINGS

‘Balancing fascinating worldbuilding with a page-turner of a plot, this is a series fantasy fans won’t want to miss.’ — Kirkus (Starred Review) on WORDS OF RADIANCE

‘Brandon Sanderson’s reputation is finally as big as his novels.’ — New York Times on WORDS OF RADIANCE

‘Sanderson has used the room afforded by a book of this size to build it in loving detail […] the characterization is on the whole as as meticulous as the world-building. A very impressive continuation.’ — Booklist on WORDS OF RADIANCE

‘Sanderson’s skill at world building is unmatched, and in the Stormlight Archive series he has developed an innovative magical system and combined it with rich, complex characters to create a compelling story. His eagerly awaited sequel to The Way of Kings exceeds expectations. This developing epic series is a must-read for all fantasy fans.’ — Library Journal on WORDS OF RADIANCE

‘Fans of the Stormlight Archive series will enjoy this book, which brings back favorite characters and deepens a well-drawn fantasy world.’ — Kirkus on OATHBRINGER

‘The much-anticipated third Stormlight Archive epic fantasy installment is classic Sanderson, with multiple story lines and unexpected twists and turns […] Sanderson successfully balances introducing new elements and satisfactorily resolving some threads, leaving fans to eagerly await the next in the series.’ — Publishers Weekly on OATHBRINGER

‘OATHBRINGER is everything I expected it to be. Not only does it make good on the promises of the first two volumes, it elevates the Stormlight Archive to new heights of epic magic, exceptional worldbuilding, and satisfying action. With each new novel, Sanderson proves himself to be the true heir to Robert Jordan’s throne. He’s writing big, meaty, contemplative epic fantasy, and showing no signs of slowing down.’ — B&N Sci-Fi and Fantasy Blog

‘[RHYTHM OF WAR] certainly delivers the dense fantasy epic long-time readers will expect.’ — Booklist

‘It is the sign of a skilled author if they can draw laughter and tears from you in the space of a few chapters or even a few lines, and well Sanderson [is] the master of emotions.’ — Fantasy Hive on RHYTHM OF WAR

‘Storms, this was a fantastic book. Highs and lows, laughter and tears, joy and grief—it was all there.’ — Tor.com on RHYTHM OF WAR

Zeno represents Brandon Sanderson in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

ICYMI: Emily Rath’s PUCKING AROUND and PUCKING WILD Out Now in the UK!

Posted on Wednesday, December 6th, 2023

The first two books in Emily Rath‘s acclaimed Jacksonville Rays romance series — PUCKING AROUND and PUCKING WILD — are out now in the UK! Published by Penguin, here’s the synopsis for the first book…

I can’t fall for a player, let alone three…

My name is Rachel Price, and two months ago, I walked away from the perfect man. We shared one magical night. No names. No strings. I never thought I’d see him again. I was wrong.

It turns out my perfect man is actually the playboy grinder for the Jacksonville Rays, the NHL’s hottest new hockey team…and I’m his new physical therapist.

This fellowship is going to be the longest ten months of my life. Mr. Perfect will do anything to get back on my good side. Meanwhile, his best friend, the surly new equipment manager, is always riding my case. Worst of all, I’ve got an uncooperative goalie who thinks I can’t tell he’s hiding an injury!

These man are ready to test my limits, but this is my chance to prove myself, and I’m not risking it for anything. I can’t fall for a player, let alone three. But if love is a game, these guys are playing to win.

PUCKING AROUND is a spicy ‘why choose’ hockey romance.

PUCKING AROUND is also a Kindle Monthly Deal in the UK (only 99p), so there’s never been a better time to give the series a try!

Zeno represents Emily Rath in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

Elizabeth Helen’s BEASTS OF THE BRIAR Series Out Tomorrow in the UK!

Posted on Monday, December 4th, 2023

We’re very happy to report that Elizabeth Helen‘s acclaimed Beasts of the Briar trilogy is out tomorrow in the UK! Published as one of the lead titles of Magpie — a newly-launched imprint of Harper Collins — all three novels will be available from December 5th:

BONDED BY THORNS
WOVEN BY GOLD
FORGED BY MALICE

The series has been a huge hit on TikTok, already, and we can’t wait for more readers to fall in love with the books! Here’s the synopsis for the first book…

Four handsome fae princes. One awkward bookworm. An Enchanted Vale. A beastly curse to break.

Rosalina O’Connell lives her life in Orca Cove as quietly as she can. Known as the daughter of Crazy George she tries to keep her head down. But George isn’t crazy, he’s searching for his wife who disappeared, and is convinced she was stolen by fae.

When George goes missing, Rosie goes after him and finds herself in a new world, the Enchanted Vale, the world of the fae and her father has been imprisoned in Castletree by the Winter Prince. Rosie has no choice but to make a deal to take her father’s place, meaning she must remain in Castletree forever.

As Rosie begins to learn more about the Enchanted Vale and the four Princes, she shares a castle with, she discovers that they have been cursed. The Princes must take on the form of demonic wolves every night and with every year that the curse continues, more of their magic, and the magic of Castletree, fades away.

If the Princes can each find their mate, they will break their curse and free their realm. Rosie is determined to help the Princes find their mates so that she can return home. The only problem is, the more time she spends with the Princes, the more she’s convinced that she’s the one they’re all meant to be with.

A spicy Beauty and the Beast retelling filled with enchanted fae, morally grey characters, a stupidly hot villain and a Princess who has found her Prince Charming. All four of them.

Zeno represents Elizabeth Helen in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

Coming Soon: THE HOLY TERRORS by Simon R. Green!

Posted on Thursday, November 30th, 2023

Next February, Severn House are due to publish THE HOLY TERRORS — the first novel in a new series by Simon R. Green! Here’s the synopsis…

Six people locked in a haunted hall… Cameras watching their every move… And then someone dies… This first in a spine-tingling new paranormal mystery series from New York Times bestselling British fantasy author Simon R. Green will make you doubt your judgement – and believe in ghosts!

Welcome to Spooky Time, the hit TV ghost-hunting show where the horror is scripted… and the ratings are declining rapidly. What better way to up the stakes – and boost the viewership – than by locking a select group of Z-list celebrities up for the night in The Most Haunted Hall in England (TM) and live-streaming the ‘terrifying’ results?

Soon Alistair, a newly appointed Bishop, actress Diana, medium Leslie, comedian Toby and celebrity chef Indira are trapped inside Stonehaven town hall, along with June, the host and producer of the show. The group tries to settle in and put on a good show, but then strange things start happening in their hall of horrors.

What is it about this place – and why is the TV crew outside not responding? Are they even on air? Logical Alistair and intuitive Diana attempt to keep the group’s fears at bay and rationalize the odd events, but there are things that just can’t be explained within reason… Can the pair stop a cold-blooded would-be killer – even if it’s come from beyond the grave?

This locked-room mystery with a paranormal twist is classic Simon R. Green, featuring his trademark humour and imagination, irresistible characters, and thoroughly entertaining plotting.

The novel will be available on February 6th, in the UK and North America.

Severn House also publishes Green’s acclaimed Gideon Sable and Ishmael Jones mystery series.

Zeno represents Simon R. Green in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

Brandon Sanderson’s DEFIANT Out Now in the UK!

Posted on Tuesday, November 21st, 2023

The fourth and final novel in Brandon Sanderon‘s acclaimed Skyward series, DEFIANT, is out now in the UK! Published by Gollancz, here’s the synopsis…

From the #1 New York Times bestselling author Brandon Sanderson comes the final book in an epic series about a girl who will travel beyond the stars to save the world she loves from destruction.

Spensa made it out of the Nowhere, but what she saw in the space between the stars has changed her forever. She came face to face with the Delvers, and finally got answers to the questions she’s had about her own strange Cytonic gifts.

The Superiority didn’t stop in it’s fight for galactic dominance while she was gone, though. Spensa’s team, Skyward Flight, was able to hold Winzik off, and even collect allies to help with the cause, but it’s only a matter of time until humanity – and the rest of the galaxy – falls.

Defeating them will require all the knowledge Spensa gathered while in the Nowhere. But being Cytonic is more complicated than she ever could have imagined. Now, Spensa must ask herself: how far is she willing to go for victory, if it means losing herself – and her friends – in the process.

The final book in the Skyward series will free humanity, or see it fall forever.

Gollancz also published the first three novels in the series — SKYWARD, STARSIGHT, and CYTONIC; as well as the Skyward Flight novellas, co-authored by Janci Patterson: SUNREACH, REDAWN, and EVERSHORE (available now in a single, collected volume).

Zeno represents Brandon Sanderson in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.