Jacaranda Books lands 'scorching' domestic thriller by Sara Koffi

Jacaranda Books has signed a “scorching debut” from Sara Koffi that examines the intersection of race, class and female friendship, and the devastating consequences of everyday actions. 

Valerie Brandes, c.e.o., acquired UK and Commonwealth rights to While We Were Burning from Lauren E Abramo of Dystel, Goderich & Bourret LLC. It will publish on 25th April 2024. 

The synopsis says: “After her best friend’s mysterious death, Elizabeth Smith’s picture-perfect life in the Memphis suburbs has spiralled out of control – so much so that she hires a personal assistant to keep her on track. Composed and elegant, Brianna is exactly who she needs and slides so neatly into Elizabeth’s life, almost like she belonged there from the start. Soon, the assistant Elizabeth hired to distract her from her obsession with her friend’s death is the same person working with her to uncover the truth behind it. But why is Brianna so invested?” 

Brandes called the book “an inspired addition to the canon of female-led mystery and crime novels” owing to Koffi’s ability to “transport readers into all the minutiae of suburban American life, while also painting complex and prickly characters with intricate motives”. 

Koffi said: “I’m absolutely ecstatic to publish While We Were Burning with Jacaranda Books. Their commitment to diversifying bookshelves and championing diverse authors perfectly aligns with my vision for the future of publishing. I’m excited for UK readers to meet a cast of twist-y characters in my fast-paced thriller, packed with timely themes and an unhinged showdown you won’t want to miss.”