Head of Zeus signs Lucy Holland in two-book historical fantasy deal
Head of Zeus has acquired two new fantasy novels based on ancient British history and Celtic mythology from historical fantasy author Lucy Holland.
Greg Rees, editor at the Bloomsbury division, agreed a deal for world English-language rights with Veronique Baxter at David Higham Associates.
The first book, The Last Verse of the Harp Lord, will be published in trade formats, e-book and audiobook in April 2027, with the second novel following in 2028.
The synopsis says: “The Last Verse of the Harp Lord, a captivating queer retelling of the tale of Taliesin the bard, will draw on traditional Welsh folklore including The Mabinogion as well as the real-life history of Wales and Northern Britain in the sixth century.”
Holland said: “It’s a dream come true to be working with Greg and the team at Head of Zeus. This is my most poetic and ambitious novel to date, and from our first conversation, I knew our visions aligned. With every book I write, I am working to restore queer identities and narratives to historical settings from which they are often excluded, and these next novels are no exception. Mythology is a naturally queer space, and I can’t wait for readers to discover the magic and beauty of Britain’s ancient tales.”
Baxter said: “Lucy is one of the standout voices in historical fantasy writing today, and this is undoubtedly her most impressive work yet. Set in the Celtic heroic age, it’s a truly extraordinary novel: hopeful and heartbreaking in equal measure, and breathtaking in its scope and ambition.”
Rees said: “Lucy Holland’s sublime storytelling, evocative prose and commitment to showcasing authentic, less-heard voices from myth and history make her one of the key voices in modern fantasy writing. I’m delighted to be working with Lucy and for Head of Zeus to be her home for this thrilling next step in her publishing journey.”
