We are excited to announce that Pan Macmillan has signed Alice Loxton’s Eleanor: On the Trail of England’s Lost Queen. Publisher Mike Harpley bought world rights from Caroline Hardman. Eleanor will be published on 13 November.

In 1290, England mourned the death of a queen, Eleanor of Castile, beloved wife of King Edward I. Her body was carried on a 200-mile journey from Lincoln to London, a solemn procession that would become immortalized in stone. To mark the places where her cortege rested, a heartbroken Edward commissioned twelve magnificent Eleanor Crosses.

 More than seven centuries later, bestselling historian Alice Loxton set herself an epic challenge: following in history’s footsteps by walking the entire 200-mile funeral route on the corresponding dates.

As Alice journeys in search of England’s forgotten queen, over ancient paths and modern motorways, history comes alive in surprising ways. Lively and entertaining, Eleanor uncovers the extraordinary life and formidable character of this lesser-known royal, revealing her inspiring legacy and the hidden history of Britain.

Mike Harpley said: “Alice is one of the most talented and engaging historians in Britain. Her enthusiasm is infectious and we were delighted that Eighteen was shortlisted for Waterstones book of the year. Readers will be just as captivated by Eleanor. It’s a tremendous book.”

Alice Loxton said: “This book is history in the making! Being the first to walk the route of the Eleanor Crosses on the corresponding days of the medieval cortege, and sharing it in writing, has been one of the most thrilling journeys of my life, and I can’t wait to share this publicly.

“I hope Eleanor shines a light on the world of Eleanor of Castile, one of the most formidable women of the medieval world, and galvanises a new generation to reap the manifold benefits of walking, and become inspired by the history on offer around them.”

The Bookbrunch article can be read here.