Gollancz acquires stunning cross-over fantasy series in hotly-fought auction

Gollancz, an imprint of the Orion Publishing Group, is delighted to announce the acquisition of a stunning cross-over fantasy series by debt author, Kristen Ciccarelli. Beginning with ASKARI, the series is perfect for readers who enjoy Victoria Aveyard, Kristin Cashore and Sarah J. Mass. A sweeping epic focused on strong characters, dangerous escapades and poisonous politics – Kristen Ciccarelli is a superb new voice in the genre.

ASKARI centres round Asha, an accomplished dragon-slayer and fierce warrior whose homeland is on the brink of a devastating civil war. Unification and peace are still possible – but there are only two ways to achieve it: through an arranged marriage, or if Asha brings the king the head of the oldest and deadliest of all dragons, the dragon who murdered her mother . . .

Gollancz Publishing director, Gillian Redfearn, acquired UK and Commonwealth rights to three novels from Gemma Cooper of the Bent Agency in a fierce auction. Translation deals have already been done for Brazilian, Turkish, French, German, Spanish, Dutch, and Polish language rights. Gollancz and Harper Teen US (who acquired US rights to the series in a six-figure deal) will publish simultaneously in late 2017.

Kristen Ciccarelli said: ‘It’s over-the-moon thrilling to be at Gollancz, alongside my literary heroes (Kristin Cashore! Holly Black!) whose books first convinced me that we can do impossible things. I keep waiting for someone to show up and tell me it’s just a dream.’

Gillian Redfearn said: ‘It is such a thrill to welcome Kristen to the Gollancz list. I was blown away by ASKARI – it’s perfect for fans of Daenerys Targaryen, and Victoria Aveyard novels. There’s a beautifully realised and thought-through world, as flawed, prejudiced and challenging as our own, a stunning story, and I was blown away by Asha. She’s a strong, compelling character at the heart of this brilliant story, and I can’t wait to see what Kristen writes next!’

Gemma Cooper of The Bent Agency said: ‘Kristen’s gripping fantasy adventure with its dragons and cinematic storytelling drew me in immediately, and I’m delighted that Gillian and the rest of the Gollancz team were as enthusiastic about it as I am.’