HEADLINE ANNOUNCE NEW TWO-BOOK DEAL WITH SHEILA O’FLANAGAN

© Bill Waters

Sunday Times bestselling author Sheila O’Flanagan has signed a two-book deal for World English language rights with Headline Publishing Group. The deal, negotiated by agent Isobel Dixon of Blake Friedmann and Headline Executive Publisher Marion Donaldson, means fans of Sheila can expect two exciting new titles in 2019 and 2020 from the Headline Review imprint.

Sheila O’Flanagan is the author of twenty-five thought-provoking, gripping and unforgettable Sunday Times and ebook bestsellers, including THE MISSING WIFE which was published in the US this month by Grand Central following its UK success. It became a Sunday Times and Irish Times paperback bestseller in 2017, as well as becoming a No.1 ebook bestseller. Her interlinked short story collection CHRISTMAS WITH YOU reached No. 2 in the Irish bestseller lists in the run up to Christmas. Headline has sold over 7 million copies of Sheila’s novels.

Sheila O’Flanagan says: ‘It has been a joy to work with the world-class team at Headline for so many years, and I look forward very much to continuing what has been a very satisfying professional and personal relationship.’

Isobel Dixon says: ‘It’s a great privilege to represent Sheila and her glorious books, and I’m absolutely delighted that we’re continuing a very happy relationship with Marion Donaldson and the super-effective team at Headline. Sheila’s delicious new book THE HIDEAWAY is out this summer, and with this deal inked, her fans can rest assured there’ll be even more splendid bestsellers in the years ahead.’

Marion Donaldson says: ‘I couldn’t be more thrilled; I’ve loved Sheila’s brilliant, sophisticated novels from the start. One of the most gratifying aspects of working with Sheila is that the books constantly evolve, with ever greater depth of characterization, new and recognizable dilemmas handled in a uniquely thoughtful and sensitive way, and a mixture of light and shade that helps create a perfectly balanced and utterly satisfying read. We are very proud at Headline to have published Sheila’s books for eighteen years, and to have shared her bestseller success on the Sunday Times and Irish Times bestseller lists time and time again. We look forward to more bestseller success this year and beyond.’

Sheila’s new novel WHAT HAPPENED THAT NIGHT, which tells the story of a mother and daughter and the life-changing decisions they make, will be published in paperback by Headline on 22 February. Set in a picturesque Spanish villa, Sheila’s next novel THE HIDEAWAY will be released on 31 May, just in time for the summer holidays. SHIELD OF LIES, the second book in Sheila’s Young Adult fantasy series THE CRYSTAL RUN is published on 8 March by Hodder.

Internationally, new translating publishers have recently acquired Sheila O’Flanagan titles, with new publications and deals in markets including Croatia, Estonia, Germany, Norway, Sweden, Russia, the Czech Republic and Italy.

Visit Sheila’s website

Follow her on Twitter

20th ANNIVERSARY EDITION PAPERBACK OF PETER JAMES’ CLASSIC THE TRUTH PUBLISHED TODAY

Suspense-lovers have much to be excited about as ten of Peter James’ classic backlist titles are republished by Orion including SWEETHEART, FAITH, HOST, TWILIGHT, DREAMER, ALCHEMIST, POSSESSION, DENIAL and PROPHECY. It marks an exciting period for Peter James fans, as the chilling suspense novels are brought to an audio audience for the first time. THE TRUTH, a dark tale of one couple’s desperate measures to avert financial ruin, is the first to be released in a 20th Anniversary Edition paperback today following the audiobook’s December publication. THE TRUTH audiobook, read by Matt Addis, features a new introduction read by Peter himself.

Susan and John Carter are crazy about each other and life is perfect but for one thing - they are on the brink of financial disaster. Surely being a surrogate mother to another man's child won't harm such a strong relationship? Especially when the mysterious Mr Sarotzini is offering to save their home and business - everything they've worked for.

What seems to be a perfect solution begins to feel like an impossible situation. Susan's pregnancy is disturbingly painful but no-one will tell her why. It becomes apparent that Sarotzini wields immense power and Susan begins to doubt everything she knows. As she realises the terrifying origin of the dark forces Saratzini controls she is in fear for herself and John but most of all for her unborn baby...

Peter was awarded an Honorary Platinum Award in January at the Specsavers Bestseller Awards, powered by Nielsen Book, recognising his considerable achievement, selling over five million copies in the UK over ten years. He will enter the Nielsen 21st Century Hall of Fame for bestselling authors. Peter’s outstanding contribution to the crime writing genre was also celebrated in October, when he travelled to Germany to receive the first Rheinbach Glass Dagger Award for Crime Fiction.

Tonight the Theatre Royal in Brighton hosts “An Evening with Peter James”, where Peter will talk about his career, his inspiration and his bestselling novels. On 15 February, he will be discussing his writing career at The Dead Good Evening event at the Sir Robert Woodard Academy in Lancing in aid of Care for Veterans.

Set to be DS Roy Grace’s most difficult case yet, the newest addition to Peter’s thrilling crime series DEAD IF YOU DON’T will be published by Pan Macmillan this May. In October ABSOLUTE PROOF, Peter’s stunning new standalone, will hit UK shelves with rights already sold across the world.

Peter James is an international bestselling thriller writer. He is a New York Times bestseller, as well as achieving multiple Sunday Times No 1s. His work is published in 37 languages. The DS Roy Grace crime novels have sold 19 million copies worldwide. He has won numerous awards, including the coveted 2016 CWA Diamond Dagger for sustained excellence, and he was publicly voted by WH Smith – Britain's biggest book selling chain – The Best Crime Author of All Time.

Visit Peter’s website

Follow Peter on Twitter

Praise for Peter James:

‘Peter James is one of the best crime writers in the business’ — Lee Child

‘Peter James is one of the most fiendishly clever crime fiction plotters.’ — The Daily Mail

‘...fast-paced and gripping...’ — Jessica Hamzelou, New Scientist

‘...a blindingly hot read set at the edges of our reality and indicative that Peter James can carve a thriller as tortuous as the DNA Double-Helix – In a word, remarkable.’ — Ali Karim, Shots Mag

‘A superior thriller … agreeably chilling moments and entertaining twists.’ — The Times

Sue Moorcroft’s romantic summer novel JUST FOR THE HOLIDAYS shortlisted for the 2018 Romantic Novel Awards!

JUST FOR THE HOLIDAYS, Sue Moorcroft’s dazzling summer story, is shortlisted for the RoNA Romantic Novel Awards 2018. There are seven award categories identifying the best in romantic fiction, and JUST FOR THE HOLIDAYS is nominated for best Contemporary Romantic Novel.

The winners of each category will be announced on Monday 5th March 2018 at an Award Ceremony held at Gladstone Library. The overall winner will be awarded the Goldsboro Books Romantic Novel of the Year and a prize of £5,000.

In JUST FOR THE HOLIDAYS, what should be a glorious, peaceful stint under the French sun turns into the holiday from hell. From teenagers and divorce to unexpected pregnancies and misplaced attachments, everything about Leah Beaumont’s holiday spells disaster. Leah is struggling to keep her sister’s family together, which is difficult under normal circumstances, but it’s even more difficult when there’s Ronan, the engaging helicopter pilot next door. He’s handsome. And he’s got all this baggage, and Leah’s scared of commitment. And yet, Leah can’t help but get involved...

My Weekly praised the book saying, ‘Sue’s gift for description and characters and a well-paced, funny yet tender plot makes this the ideal holiday read.’ In 2016, her festive novel THE CHRISTMAS PROMISE was a Kindle No.1 bestseller and her most recent release, THE LITTLE VILLAGE CHRISTMAS, reached No.6 in the Sunday Times bestseller charts.

You can follow Sue on Twitter here.

Or visit her website here.

Praise for JUST FOR THE HOLIDAYS

‘A must read.’ – Saturday Magazine

‘A zesty-paced contemporary page-turner that sparkles with compelling family drama, heart-warming pathos and delightful humour, JUST FOR THE HOLIDAYS is a breezy summer read that is absolutely perfect for losing yourself into. Full of characters that leap off the pages with ease, gripping twists and turns and poignant romance, if you only take one book with you on holiday this summer, then make sure it’s Sue Moorcroft’s fabulous JUST FOR THE HOLIDAYS!’ — Julie B, Bookish Jottings

‘Sue Moorcroft’s novel provides easy-going pleasures for your own holiday reading.’ — France Magazine

'A perfect page-turner when soaking up the sun' — Asda Magazine

MASTER OF WAR: SCOURGE OF WOLVES OUT IN HARDBACK TOMORROW

Thomas Blackstone’s story continues in SCOURGE OF WOLVES, the compelling fifth novel in David Gilman’s acclaimed MASTER OF WAR series, published on 8 February in hardback by Head of Zeus, with audiobook by W.F. Howes Lamplight. The fast-paced historical fiction series has gone from strength to strength since the first instalment was published in 2013. The series has been praised by the Historical Novel Society as a ‘stunning work’… ‘historical fiction at its best’. The Daily Mail described its realistic depictions of medieval warfare as ‘gritty…sparing nothing’ and the fourth title in the series, VIPER’S BLOOD, has just been published in Germany by Rowohlt, hitting Number 6 in the German paperback bestseller list.

It is in the winter of 1361. After two decades of conflict, Edward III has finally agreed to a treaty with the captive French King, John II. In return for his freedom, John has ceded vast tracts of territory to the English. But for five long years mercenary bands and belligerent lords have fought over the carcass of his kingdom. They will not give up their hard-won spoils to honour a defeated king's promises.

If the English want their prize, they'll have to fight for it.

As he battles to enforce Edward's claim, Thomas Blackstone will see his name blackened, his men slaughtered, his family hunted. He will be betrayed and, once again, he'll face the might of the French army on the field. But this time there will be no English army at his back. He'll face the French alone.

The MASTER OF WAR series has sold in Germany, Brazil, the Czech Republic, Spain and Hungary. David’s riveting standalone novel THE LAST HORSEMAN, set during the Boer War, was shortlisted for the Wilbur Smith Adventure Writing Prize 2017.

David Gilman has had many careers, including firefighter, soldier and photographer, before turning to writing full time. He is an award-winning author and screenwriter.

Visit David’s website.

Follow him on Twitter and Facebook.

Praise for the MASTER OF WAR series:

‘A gripping chronicle of pitched battle, treachery and cruelty.’ — Robert Fabbri, author of the Vespasian series.'

‘I'm totally bedazzled. I'd never thought that another writer could rival Bernard Cornwell when it came to dramatizing battles, but David is giving him a real run for his money. The battle scenes are so realistic it is almost like time-traveling, though definitely not for the faint of heart. Thomas is an incredibly appealing and sympathetic character. And the level of suspense is ratcheted up to a truly brutal level, for it is impossible for a reader to predict what will be coming next' — Sharon Penman.

‘His words strike like a bodkin point straight to the torso, the clangour of battle and the suspense of intrigue immersive and visceral, and all wrapped up in some of the most evocative prose that you will ever discover.’ — Ruadh Butler, author of the Invader series

‘Move over Bernard Cornwell!…Historical fiction at its best.’ — Historical Novel Society

‘Historical fiction has been made all the richer by Sir Thomas, his people and their adventures. Do please treat yourself if you haven't read MASTER OF WAR by David Gilman or any of the series that came afterwards.’ — Ani Johnson, The Bookbag

‘The bone-crunching intensity of this series shows no signs of abating.... an excellent series.’ — Parmenion Books

‘The author has clearly carried out extensive research on the period, and his detailed knowledge of weapons, military strategy and the dismal living conditions of the English army makes for gripping reading. I can thoroughly recommend to both individual readers and book groups with an interest in history, as well as fans of Bernard Cornwell. A superb read.’ — Ruth Ginarlis, Nudge Book

THE MISSING WIFE by Sheila O’Flanagan published by Grand Central today

Imogen Naughton’s sudden disappearance shocks those closest to her in Sheila O’Flanagan’s THE MISSING WIFE, published by Grand Central today. The novel is now available in ebook, audiobook and trade paperback in the US.

Booklist described the novel as 'haunting… full of charming, fully realized characters and well-written dialogue set against the picturesque French seaside. If you’ve ever wondered what GONE GIRL would have been like as a domestic drama instead of a thriller, this is the book for you.' American readers can enter a giveaway to win a copy here, featuring an interview with the author.

THE MISSING WIFE captured the imagination of UK readers following its publication by Headline. In its first full week of sales, it shot to the #1 bestseller position in Ireland and #4 in the Sunday Times Paperback Fiction Bestseller list. It remained in the charts three months after its publication, breaking Sheila’s record for consecutive weeks in the bestseller charts. In June it hit #1 on the Kindle list and ended the year on a high by reaching #6 in Amazon’s bestselling ebooks of 2017.

When Imogen Naughton vanishes, everyone who knows her is shocked. She has a perfect marriage. Her handsome husband treats her like a princess. She’s always said how lucky she is. So why has she left? And how will she survive without Vince?

What goes on behind closed doors is often a surprise, and Imogen surprises herself by taking the leap she knows she must. But as she begins her journey to find the woman she once was, Imogen’s past is right behind her…

Rights for THE MISSING WIFE have already sold in several markets including Czech Republic, Russia, Estonia and Germany. The second novel in Sheila’s Young Adult CRYSTAL RUN series, SHIELD OF LIES, will be published in March in the UK by Hodder and the paperback of WHAT HAPPENED THAT NIGHT will be published on 22nd February by Headline.

Sheila was awarded the prestigious Irish Tatler Woman of the Year Award in 2003 and currently lives in Dublin with her husband. Her books have sold over 7.5 million copies.

See more on Sheila’s website.

Follow Sheila on Twitter

Praise for THE MISSING WIFE:

‘A smart and twisty yarn’ – Heat

‘O'Flanagan is one of our best-known, best-loved and most prolific women's fiction authors... THE MISSING WIFE is a thoroughly satisfying, well-paced plot from a sure and experienced pen.’ – Independent

‘This GONE GIRL-esque novel will have you gripped until the very end’ – Look

‘Must-have’ – Sunday Express

‘Another first class bestseller. I read the book in one sitting as it was so enjoyable, full of romance and kept you riveted until the last page. A must for all [Sheila's] fans’ – Woman's Way

‘Insightful, witty and full of fun... This is touching, tense and clever writing.’ – Irish Independent

‘A lovely book that will keep you guessing right up until the end.’ – Bella

‘Must-read’ – Express