HarperNorth snares first novel with Woods' gangland thriller

HarperNorth has snared its first fiction acquisition, a gritty gangland thriller by Karen Woods.

Genevieve Pegg, publishing director, negotiated a deal for world all language rights directly from the author following an open submissions call. Tracks will be released in e-book, audio and paperback on July 8, 2021

Woods, who struggled to read and write until she took part in an adult literacy course aged 39, will be the first fiction author to join the list at HarperCollins' new Manchester-based imprint.

Pegg said: “Karen is a born storyteller, with a love for the city that shaped her and her stories—and more than that, a drive to write characters with edge, affection and authenticity. Her ability to craft a story that readers everywhere will connect with shone out in her writing.”

Woods said: “I’m so excited! I represent every woman who has ever had a dream. You can follow your dreams no matter what age or background you come from. My stories introduce you to people we will all warm to, and situations we have all dealt with. I’m so proud of what I have achieved.”