Christy Lefteri, author of the internationally bestselling novels The Beekeeper of Aleppo and Songbirds, will be publishing a new novel, The Library of Nicosia, in May 2027 with Firefinch Publishing. Kate Parkin and Margaret Stead of Firefinch acquired UK, Commonwealth and translation rights to The Library of Nicosia and a second novel by Christy Lefteri from Marianne Gunn O’Connor at the Marianne Gunn O’Connor Talent Agency.

In The Library of Nicosia Christy returns to Cyprus, the island her family fled after the war, to explore a community riven by conflict, and the acts of determination and courage that lie at the heart of what it is to love, and to be human.

In the wake of a brutal conflict, Cyprus is an island divided, and holding an uncertain peace. Hidden within the shattered landscape of the Green Line, the militarised No Man’s Land, is the Library of Nicosia. Accessed from both sides of the Green Line, the library is a gateway for secret contact between friends, families, lovers.

Turkish Yasemin and Greek Nicos have been driven apart by identities and animosities neither of them recognize or comprehend. The golden thread that binds them is the library, and a book that holds a message. Vassos, the librarian, works in secret as keeper of the flame, hoping that one day the lovers might find their way home to each other.

Lefteri is an award-winning novelist, published in over 40 languages.  Acclaimed for her compassionate, haunting and resonant storytelling, she seeks to explore the world around us, framing contemporary concerns within a compelling narrative.

Kate Parkin said: ‘Christy is an astonishing writer.  The Library of Nicosia is a heart-breaking and exhilarating story of war, family and bravery. She has outdone herself.’

Margaret Stead said: ‘The Library of Nicosia is a vivid and compelling exploration of human spirit and determination, and the power of stories. We’re so delighted to be publishing this gem of a novel next year.’

Christy Lefteri said: ‘The Library of Nicosia has existed in my heart and soul for years, linked to my PhD research into the effects of nationalism on the Greek and Turkish communities in Cyprus. It is also deeply entwined with my family history. It is a real privilege to be publishing with Firefinch, with Kate Parkins and Margaret Stead, who are like my creative family. It is a novel about the enduring and extraordinary power of love beyond borders and how stories can preserve our shared humanity.’

Marianne Gunn O’Connor said: ‘Kate is a visionary. Margaret’s superpower is her special connection with authors. The combined strengths of these formidable women bring the business of books to another level where heart and soul are as important as the bottom line. I am beyond thrilled to be teaming up with them again for this powerful,  luminous and urgent new novel of Christy’s which I’m sure will move hearts everywhere.’

The Library of Nicosia by Christy Lefteri will be published by Firefinch Publishing in May 2027