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Orenda Books has pre-empted a standalone thriller from Rod Reynolds in a pre-Frankfurt two-book deal.
Karen Sullivan, publisher of Orenda Books, acquired world English Language rights for Blood Red City and a second (untitled) book, in a two-book deal negotiated with Jane Gregory of Jane Gregory & Company, part of DHA.
"Crusading journalist Lydia Wright is sent a video of an apparent murder on a London train, and she thinks she's found the story to revive her career. But she can't find a victim, much less the killers, and the only witness has disappeared," reads the synopsis. "Wary she's fallen for fake news, she begins to doubt her instincts - until a sinister call alerts her that she's not the only one interested in the crime. Michael Stringer deals in information - and doesn't care which side of the law he finds himself on. But the murder on the train has left him exposed, and now he'll stop at nothing to discover what the journalist knows. When their paths collide, Lydia finds the story leads through a nightmare world where money, power and politics intersect - and information is the only thing more dangerous than a bullet."
Sullivan said: "I have long been a fan of Rod’s rural American noir thrillers, and Blood Red City is a captivating departure that showcases his exceptional writing. London becomes a character it its own right … the slick, shiny world of the media and high finance, the dirty inner suburbs, the upmarket outer suburbs with expensive cars and houses, are beautifully painted, with a raw authenticity that accentuates the powerful plot and the unremitting tension.
"This is a classy, relevant thriller that bursts with energy, grit and intelligence from the first page, twisting and feinting to a superb, unexpected ending. The sense of jeopardy is palpable, and the plot all too believable. It’s so visual that, at times, I felt like I was witnessing real events unfolding … or a brilliantly produced TV drama. I am thrilled to welcome Rod to the team, and know that he and this stunning thriller will fit in beautifully. I am genuinely honoured to showcase Rod’s extraordinary talent, and cannot wait to get this book out there. I haven’t stopped thinking about it since I first picked it up.’
Reynolds added: "I've been a fan of Orenda's list from day one, so I am thrilled that they will be publishing my books. Orenda is home to some of the most exciting and innovative crime fiction around and I'm genuinely excited to be working with them."