Simon & Schuster acquires two epic historical novels set in 1066 by debut novelist Berwick Coates

April 9, 2012

Debut novelist Berwick Coates, one of the Historical Novel Society’s first ever members, has been signed by Senior Commissioning editor Clare Hey at Simon & Schuster in a two-book deal.

At the Grey Apple Tree, tells the story of the first days of the Norman invasion, focussing intently on the seven days leading up to the Battle of Hastings, in the immediate vicinity of the battlefield, and from the points-of-view of protagonists from both sides of the conflict and all strata of both societies. S&S will publish in 2013 with the second novel, telling the story of the Battle of Stamford Bridge in a similar vein, to follow in 2014.

Clare Hey said, ‘I’d been looking for a 1066 novel and when Jim pitched these novels as “The Longest Day as written by Ken Follett” I knew I was in for a treat. Berwick Coates is a brilliant addition to our historical fiction list for 2013, which is going from strength to strength.’

James Gill at United Agents said, ‘Almost from the moment it arrived in my inbox, Berwick’s panoramic novel swept me up and refused to let me go – and I’m delighted that Clare and the team at S&S felt so keenly the same way. We’re thrilled that these novels have found their home with Simon & Schuster.’

Sources: Booktrade Info and United Artists

Posted by Richard Lee