Welbeck scoops 'compelling and original' love story by debutant Steele

Welbeck has scooped a "compelling and original” love story by debut author Emma Steele.

Rosa Schierenberg, editorial director, acquired UK and Commonwealth rights, excluding Canada, to The Places Between plus one other high-concept love story from Tanera Simons at The Darley Anderson Literary, TV & Film Agency. Schierenberg has since left Welbeck and a new editor will shortly be announced.

German rights were snapped up by Droemer Verlag in an overnight two-book six-figure pre-empt; Romanian rights have also sold to Bookzone and the dramatic rights are in late-stage negotiations. Audio rights have been acquired by Ellis Moore at Bolinda for simultaneous publication in spring 2024. 

The Places Between is a dual-narrative contemporary love story set in Edinburgh that plays with the phenomenon of life flashing before our eyes in near-death moments. Protagonists Jenn and Robbie are in traffic when they see a truck hurtling towards them; Robbie is thrown into Jenn’s past and sees another side to their relationship and, more importantly, himself.

Welbeck said: “Emma manages to capture that gut-punching moment of falling in love with such a lightness and warmth, you can’t help but think of Richard Curtis’ great love stories. There’s already been an incredible response to this book and we can’t wait to share Jenn and Robbie’s story with readers worldwide.”

Steele, a solicitor based in Edinburgh, said: “From the moment I came across the shared-death experience phenomenon, I knew I had to write this book. It felt like the perfect vehicle in which to explore both the complexities of love, and also how a couple can view their relationship from two entirely different angles. I am absolutely thrilled that The Places Between has found its home with Welbeck and can’t wait to get it out to UK readers and beyond.”

Simons added: “The Places Between is an incredibly special novel that will make you gasp and cry. Emma has created two characters so relatable in their highs and lows that I defy any reader not to be drawn into this wholly compelling and original love story.”