One More Chapter signs Foluso Agbaje's 'beautiful debut' in two-book deal

One More Chapter has signed The Parlour Wife, a "poignant" story about Nigerian women during the Second World War, from debut novelist Foluso Agbaje, in a two-book deal. 

Editor Ajebowale Roberts bought world all-language rights from Emily Glenister. The novel will be published in autumn 2024. 

"Representing Foluso’s beautiful debut novel is an utter privilege, and I am so grateful to the team at One More Chapter, which has welcomed her with open arms and is as excited about the book as we are," said Glenister.  "Foluso is an exciting new voice in the commercial/book-club space, and The Parlour Wife is a huge testament to that."

The synopsis for The Parlour Wife reads: "It’s 1939 and World War Two has just been announced in Lagos, Nigeria. Kehinde’s parents believe that marriage at the age of 18 is her best chance of survival, so she puts aside her hopes of becoming a writer and becomes the third wife of Mr Ogunjobi, one of the wealthiest men in Lagos. Despite her large new family, with her twin brother Taiwo off fighting for the Empire Kehinde has never felt more alone." 

Agbaje said: “Having this opportunity is such a dream come true. The One More Chapter team understands my vision for The Parlour Wife, and I’m thrilled to be working with them. The Parlour Wife is a story dear to my heart, and one that I think will resonate with many readers across the world.” 

Roberts added: “I feel infinitely privileged to be publishing The Parlour Wife by Foluso Agbaje. Foluso’s writing has the unique talent to bring all of your emotions to the forefront. I felt like I had a hole punched through my heart as I read The Parlour Wife and the feminine rage I experienced on behalf of Kehinde was explosive. It’s so wonderful to publish a book about the forgotten women from my heritage during the tumultuous Second World War and to highlight their tenacity and courage.” 

From The Bookseller article | Katie Fraser