Bookouture signs new contracts with Ranald and Harper
Bookouture acquired two romantic comedies from bestselling author Sophie Ranald and three new books by women’s fiction author Kristin Harper, with the first novels publishing later this year.
We are pleased to announce that Associate Publisher Jess Whitlum-Cooper has acquired World All Language rights to two romantic comedies from bestselling author Sophie Ranald from Alice Saunders at The Soho Agency. The first novel will publish in September 2026, with the second publishing in February 2027.
Jess said,
‘I am thrilled to be bringing Sophie’s wonderful writing back to the Bookouture list. I have always been a huge fan of her storytelling and to be working with her on these novels is a dream come true. The team and I are so happy to be publishing these books and I can’t wait for her readers to discover these funny and uplifting new stories.’
Sophie said,
‘I’m absolutely delighted to be working on two new romcoms with Jess Whitlum-Cooper, which will be my 11th and 12th novels with Bookouture. Returning to Bookouture feels like coming home – I’ve always received so much support from Jess and the wonderful team. I know that Jess’s amazing editorial touch will make these books the best they can possibly be and I’m confident that Bookouture’s unique marketing alchemy will see them reach new and existing readers.’
We are also thrilled to announce that Publishing Director Ellen Gleeson and Commissioning Editor Brittany Golob have acquired World All Languages rights, plus audio, film and TV rights, for three new books by women’s fiction author Kristin Harper.
Two emotional, suspenseful family drama novels will take the author in a new direction. The first, publishing in August 2026, tells the story of a woman whose husband is supposed to be on a trip with friends: but it’s the first of many lies he’s told, and discovering the truth will change everything.
The Christmas Cove Inn is a re-publication of a backlist charming festive romance and will publish in September 2026.
Ellen said,
‘I was really excited that Kristin wanted to explore this new direction as well as bring her backlist romance novel to Bookouture. I know her existing fans will adore her trademark skill at conveying complex family dynamics and page-turning stories, and I hope we’ll find her even more readers together.’
Britanny said,
‘I’m so pleased to be able to work with Kristin Harper. Her wistful romances and swoon-worthy settings are a joy to read. I can’t wait to bring a charming, cheerful Christmas romance to the market later on this year.’
Kristin said,
‘I couldn’t be happier that Bookouture is publishing three more books from me and it’s especially exciting to write in a slightly different genre! With my fabulous editor, Ellen, leading the way and the entire brilliant team behind me, I’m confident we’ll deliver stories that will captivate my loyal readers and reach new ones, too. I also can’t wait to work with Brittany on my Christmas publishing!’
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