Canelo acquires a steamy, winter warmer rom com by debut author Sophie Davies
January 23, 2026
Commissioning Editor Pauli Roos has acquired World English language and Audio rights to a hilarious holiday romance by debut author Sophie Davies from Natalie Barracliffe at Sheil Land Ltd in a two-book deal.
Head Over Skis is a hot, snow-set romance for fans of Catherine Walsh. Lottie and her friends’ long-planned ski trip is jeopardized when she finds her boyfriend, Adam, cheating. Desperate for a distraction before the holiday, Lottie has a one-night stand with a stranger – who turns out to be Rory, her ski instructor. Lottie has a decision to make: forgive Adam, or take a chance on Rory.
Sophie Davies is a romance author based in West Sussex, who studied English Literature at the University of Exeter, and has worked in the publishing industry ever since. She loves visiting local cafes and penning love stories that she hopes will make you feel as warm and cosy as the books that made her fall in love with the genre.
Head Over Skis will be published in mass market paperback, ebook and audiobook in September 2026 with a rivals to lovers rom com to follow in 2027.
Pauli Roos says: ‘Sophie’s novel will have you reaching for a hot cider, whatever the weather! I adored the collection of both sweet and hilarious moments throughout the book. Readers everywhere will want Rory as their book boyfriend; Sophie’s compelling prose and wit bring characters to life and I am thrilled to be working with her.’
Sophie Davies says: ‘Since I began writing this book, my dream was always that one day it would find its way into the hands of readers, and now thanks to Pauli and the wonderful team at Canelo, that dream is coming true! Pauli’s love for the characters and her understanding of the warmth and joy I want the story to bring to readers makes me so glad it’s found a home with her at Canelo. I couldn’t be more excited that we’ll be bringing Lottie, Rory, and the rest of the loveable cast of characters from Head Over Skis into the world. I’d also like to shout out to my incredible agent Natalie, whose belief in this project has made all of this happen, as well as everyone who has helped me on this journey so far. I hope you love it!’
Natalie Barracliffe says: ‘I’m so happy that Sophie’s debut has landed with Pauli and the dedicated team at Canelo. Sophie’s book is such a delight to read, and I can’t wait for the book to be in the readers’ hands!’
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