A&U acquires Wilkinson’s new YA novel

Allen & Unwin (A&U) has acquired ANZ rights to YA novel Lavender and Hemlock by Lili Wilkinson, in a deal negotiated by Katelyn Detweiler and Sam Farkas at Jill Grinberg Literary Management.

Described as “a cosy, atmospheric portal fantasy,” Lavender and Hemlock follows housemaid Tansy, whose seemingly-simple life is turned upside down by the arrival of a mysterious, wounded knight. In this tale of love, war and sacrifice “featuring a queer grumpy-sunshine romance and a darkly whimsical magical world”, said the publisher, she is forced to question the nature of her home… and how she got there.

Wilkinson has written more than 20 books for young people, including A Hunger of Thorns (A&U), which won the Victorian Premier’s Literary Award and was a CBCA Honour Book. She has a PhD from the University of Melbourne, and is an advocate for YA. Her latest books are the Bravepaw series and Unhallowed Halls (both A&U).

Wilkinson said, “Lavender and Hemlock has all my favourite fantasy ingredients – magical doors, cranky old ladies, witchy botanicals, swoony romance and messing with the whole idea of good-versus-evil.”

A&U publisher Jodie Webster said, “Lavender and Hemlock is a magical tale swirling with mysteries and secrets, brimming with romance and sacrifice, and laced with danger and dark truths. The perfect potion to captivate readers.”

A&U has scheduled Lavender and Hemlock for release in late 2026.

Category: Local news Rights and acquisitions