Countryside matters

2 min read

Tina Jackson

UK NON-FICTION

Quiller Publishing is a UK press with a general and a specialist equestrian imprint. Last year it was acquired by Amberley Publishing.

Quiller publishes a wide range of titles focusing on countryside subjects, sports and pursuits. ‘These include practical books on dog training, gamekeeping, shooting, fishing, food and drink,’ said editor Angeline Wilcox. ‘We also publish humorous gift books, and titles about farming and natural history. Our list features some biographies and autobiographies of notable people associated with our specific areas of interest.’

Quiller also has its Kenilworth Press imprint, which is devoted to equestrian titles and handbooks. ‘Kenilworth Press is the exclusive publisher for the British Horse Society training manuals and is the distributor for The Pony Club’s Manual of Horsemanship,’ said Angeline. Quiller Publishing is also the UK distributor for the US publisher Trafalgar Square Books.

Quiller Publishing Ltd is an independent publisher established in 2001 by Andrew Johnston. ‘In 2021 the company was acquired by Amberley Publishing in a deal which Amberley said would “provide a strong addition to Amberley’s existing nonfiction catalogue and support our long-term growth strategy”,’ said Angeline. ‘The Quiller and Kenilworth Press imprints remain independent imprints within Amberley.’

Quiller and Kenilworth combined publish approximately 12 titles each year, and distributes about 20 titles annually for Trafalgar Square Books. ‘We want to continue expanding and developing our range of high-quality titles, as well as attracting even more talented authors to our list,’ said Angeline.

Prospective authors must appreciate exactly the type of books Quiller and Kenilworth publish. ‘They should study our backlist and consult our website to find out more,’ said Angeline. ‘We like to hear from authors who are talented, knowledgeable and widely respected in their specialist areas. This expertise is essential – as is the ability to share it with readers in a clear, engaging way. Authors must also have an idea that is strong, relevant and commercially viable.’

A good book for Quiller is one that increases the reader’s knowledge, interest or ability in a particular country pursuit or subject. ‘Strong contenders are those that have a direct reach into a wide market of enthusiasts, for example, practical and instructional titles. In addition, superbly illustrated humour and gift books from established illustrators are of interest.��