September is my birthday month, and this year I received a fantastic gift—a three-book deal with Berkley! Berkley is an imprint of Penguin Random House, and the home of some of my favorite authors, including superstars like Amanda Quick, Deanna Raybourn, and Mary Balogh. I’m so honored to join the Berkley family.
This all happened rather quickly earlier this month. I’ve been bursting with excitement ever since. There aren’t many publishers I would trust with one of my novels, but Sarah Blumenstock, my new editor at Berkley, really understood my story and was as excited about it as I am.
Now that the official announcement has been released in Publishers Marketplace, I can finally share the news!
When the offer came, my parents picked up a lemon cointreau cake from our local bakery, opened a split of champagne, and helped me celebrate what may be the best pre-birthday present I’ve ever received.
The Siren of Sussex is the story of Ahmad Malik, an Anglo-Indian tailor and habitmaker in 1860s London, and Evelyn Maltravers, the bold, bluestocking equestrienne who becomes his love and his muse. It contains all of my favorite Victorian things—fashion, romance, history, and horses. It will even have a familiar character or two. In fact, you may remember Ahmad from my Parish Orphans of Devon series. I always planned for him to be the hero of his own story. The Siren of Sussex will be out in Spring 2022.
AWESOME!!!😍 Congratulations! Well deserved!
Thanks so much, Anne! xx
That’s wonderful. Many congratulations. I can’t wait to read the books–I’m certain they’ll be amazing. :-)
Aw thanks, Penelope :) I hope you’ll like them! xx
This is fabulous news! Another Mimi Matthews romance to look forward to. Yes, I’m marking my spreadsheet…
Thanks, Regina! I can’t wait for you to read it! xx
CONGRATULATIONS! A wonderful gift for a gifted author! Looking forward to Ahmad’s story. In the meantime, I have some catching up to do on your books sitting in my Kindle!
Thank you so much, Carole! You’re too kind. xx
Congratulations! Can’t wait to be able to pre-order!
Thanks, Margaret! xx
Congratulations, Mimi and welcome to the Berkley group. *g*
Thanks so much, Anne! It’s an honor to be in any group with you!! xx
Congrats! They’re one of my favorite publishers. They are lucky to have you, and I can’t wait to read your next books!
Thanks so much, Kat :) I hope you’ll like the new series! xx
Congratulations!!!
Thanks, Virginia! xx
Congratulations
Thanks, Indra! xx
Congratulations Mimi, this is wonderful news! What a terrific birthday present, and a beautiful looking cake too. Enjoy your celebrations and happy birthday! I look forward to reading it when it comes out. :-)
Thank you so much, Debbie :) I really hope you’ll like the new book! xx
What wonderful news! And well deserved. :-)
Thank you so much, Katie! xx
I’m so thrilled for you, and I can’t wait to read the books. A friend of mine just released with Berkley, and I get the excitement for this particular imprint. Perhaps it’s because Penguin is where I’ve always gotten my classics. :-) (As an aside, gorgeous cake and happy pre-birthday).
Thanks, Jennie :) You know, I feel the same way about Penguin. I’ve been reading their books for so long, which made getting the deal extra exciting! xx
This is amazing!!!! So happy for you, Mimi. Congrats!!
Thanks so much, Sarah! xx
Congratulations Mimi!! I’m so happy for you and Happy Birthday!! I can’t wait until 2022!!
Thanks so much, Dana!! xx
That is amazing! Congratulations and Happy Birthday! I love when secondary characters get their own story. I loved the Parish Orphans series and look forward to reading this story.
Thank you so much, Donna :) I really hope you’ll like the new series! xx
That is wonderful news! Looking forward to many more of your books 📚
Thanks so much, Jean! xx
Congrats, Mimi!! That’s such great news, I can’t wait to read The Siren of Sussex!
BTW Is that a La Gateau cake I’m seeing? I always buy from them on special occasions, they’re the best. It’s 45 mins by car for me, but sooo worth it!
Thanks so much, Mel :) Yes! It’s my fave from Le Gateau. Their cakes are so good, aren’t they? xx
Congratulations!!! The Siren of Sussex sounds intriguing. And, happy belated birthday. 🎉🎉🎉
Thank you so much, Nicole! xx
Fantastic news! And happy belated birthday!
Thanks so much, Santa! xx
I recently discovered your books. I have read three now. By the second one I knew you would be joining my favorites. So happy for your good news. Looking forward to reading many more of your works.
Thanks, Mary :) I’m so glad you’ve been enjoying my books! xx
Fantastic, well deserved news! Congratulations :) x
Thanks so much, Rae! xx
What excellent news! Can’t wait to get my hands on that first book! I’ll be first in line! A big congratulations!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!
Thank you so much, Christine! xx
Congratulations on the Berkeley contract, Mimi! I’m just discovering your blog today. You’re at the top of my list for favorite authors,. I’m saying a prayer of thanks for your loved ones who helped through dark times and back to writing! I’m attracted to your characters who demonstrate respect and tenderness as well as unconditional love’s most recently the curate Mark. Your books are always worth repeated readings. Thanks for keeping on.