Avon picks up two from self-published writer Crane

Avon has picked up a "deliciously dark" suspense novel from self-published author and book editor Pamela Crane in a two-novel deal.

Commissioning editor Katie Loughnane acquired world rights from One Perfect Morning and a second book from the author, with Tessa Woodward buying US rights for William Morrow. One Perfect Morning will be published simultaneously across territories in August 2020. 

The publisher said: "With a brilliant mix of women behaving badly, how true friendship should (and shouldn’t) work, and what different women bring to the idea of motherhood and being a “perfect” wife, it feels like there’s something for everyone in this deliciously dark and addictive slice of domestic suspense."

Loughnane explained: "I have long been a fan of Pamela’s writing and have admired her proactive and creative approach to her self-publishing, which has earned her legions of loyal fans. I am thrilled to be bringing her to the Avon list with what I believe is her most exciting novel yet: as morning breaks over an idyllic suburban street, we are introduced to one dead husband, and three women with motives. What’s more, these women are all best friends who have each other’s backs – or do they?"

Crane, a USA Today bestseller and author of almost a dozen novels, said: "I am over the moon to have been signed by HarperCollins – I genuinely could not think of anywhere else I could think of as home. The personal attention I’ve received from my genius editor and the team at Avon has made me realize I’m not just a number, but an author with a team-family. A team that spends meticulous time working with me, nurturing my books, my career, my passion. And I’ll continue celebrating this, because I know first-hand their dedication and personal investment in the thrillers I love writing for my fans."