Storm signs three ‘powerful, modern’ novels by debut author Tundun 

Storm has acquired three novels by Ola Tundun, including her debut The Chaos of Us.

Editorial director Emily Gowers acquired world English language rights from Emily Glenister of DHH Literary. Following the messy, chaotic lives of Ariella, Caleb and their extended family and friends, the first part of what the publisher describes as “this powerful, modern love story” will be released in September 2023.

Gowers said: “I have to pinch myself that I’m working with Ola and Emily on these incredible stories. The characters Ola has created are so deeply real and relatable, and from page one I was completely absorbed in their turbulent lives. Ola has a gift for lighting up the darkest times with humour and hope, and I know that readers are going to fall hard for Ariella and Caleb and this intense and beautiful love story.”

Tundun said: “I started this journey writing a book that I knew I would enjoy reading, because being a published author was a dream I never dared to have. Not many things make me feel more fulfilled than creating spaces for characters to be themselves, but getting the absolute privilege to share my writing with readers feels incredible.

“Emily Glenister’s kindness, brilliance, wit and unrelenting support as my Fairy God Agent lit the way to a dynamic home at Storm Publishing where I have the pleasure of working with Emily Gowers. I’m excited to work with an editor who not only believes in the characters and story; but is always an effervescent vessel of ideas, knowledge, positivity and experience. I’m thrilled to be able to call myself an author, but what I am looking forward to is engaging with communities of readers, discussing my writing with audiences hoping to connect, and the brand new, unexpected adventure this opportunity brings.”

Glenister said that from the moment she and Tundun sat down with Gowers, “it was clear as day she was the perfect editor for The Chaos of Us.” She added: “Her passion and vision for the book were unparalleled. As for it being Ola’s debut novel […] she manages to balance pathos with laugh-out-loud moments, and this story is full of genuine heart and joy.”