Thomas & Mercer bags two from Rankin in six-figure deal

Thomas & Mercer has signed a two-book deal for six-figures from Sherry Rankin.

Senior editor Victoria Haslam acquired world all-language rights after an exclusive submission from Marilia Savvides at 42. The Hare’s Mask, the first book in the deal, is scheduled for publication in April 2025.

"Sherry is an incredible talent, and I am so excited for readers to discover her ingenious storytelling," commented Savvides.

The Hare’s Mask follows former detective Colly Newland who is raising her grandson after the death of her husband and daughter yet, when her estranged mother-in-law calls asking for help with two identical murders committed two decades apart, Colly can’t say no.

Rankin’s first novel, Strange Fire, won the CWA Debut Dagger Award 2017. She commented: "The professionalism, support, and kindness I’ve encountered with the Amazon Publishing team so far has made it clear to me that both I and The Hare’s Mask have found the right publishing home, and I look forward to discovering what the future holds in store."

Haslam said: "Sherry Rankin is a rare talent; as soon as I read the opening page of The Hare’s Mask, I was captivated. I have no doubt that Sherry is going to make a stamp on the crime writing world with these simmering crime novels. Fans of Jane Harper and Chris Whitaker are in for a treat."

Mouncif Faqir, director of Amazon Books Europe, added: "We’re happy to welcome Sherry Rankin to Thomas & Mercer because she is an exceptional talent."