Darkmans, Nicola Barker’s epic 800+ page novel recently shortlisted for the Booker Prize, has been acquired for U.S. publication by her longstanding American publisher Dan Halpern at Ecco. Barker’s sixth novel takes place over several days in the English town of Ashford and follows a large cast of characters whose lives may be haunted by the spirit of a historical court jester. Ecco holds U.S. rights only and will publish in January.

The Ecco deal leaves Indra Sinha’s Animal’s People as the only other title on the Booker shortlist without a U.S. publisher yet. U.S. rights are currently being auctioned, with agent Carole Blake reportedly entertaining several bids. The Booker prize winner will be announced on October 16.