Canelo has acquired two brilliant psychological suspense novels by J. A. Corrigan.

Commissioning Editor Leodora Darlington has acquired World English Language rights to new suspense novels by J. A. Corrigan from Camilla Shestopal at Shesto Literary in a two-book deal.

The first of the newly acquired novels, The Nurse, is a gripping and unputdownable piece of psychological fiction that will keep fans of masterfully woven and character-driven plots enthralled. Our protagonist, Rose Marlowe, is a hard-working nurse, a loving wife, and a merciless killer. Or so she says. Down-on-his luck author and ex-journalist, Theo Hazel, is convinced that there’s more to what happened than Rose is telling, and so decides to visit her behind bars to write her story. As time goes on, Theo becomes more and more convinced that the beguiling Rose can’t be a killer. But is he trying to free an innocent victim, or falling prey to a calculating murderer?

J. A. Corrigan was born in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire. She studied in London, completing a BA (Hons) Humanities degree, majoring in Modern History and English Literature. Her first thriller, Falling Suns, was published by Headline in 2016. She also writes historical fiction under the name ‘Jules Hayes’. Corrigan currently lives in Berkshire with her family.

Leodora Darlington says: ‘Corrigan’s writing has been described as ‘exceptional’, ‘stunning’ and ‘outstanding’ in the past, and in reading The Nurse, it’s easy to see why. The Nurse is at once twisty, dark and suspenseful, but also genuinely heartbreaking. Prepare to be emotionally shattered more than once. You will wonder how Rose, an intelligent and compelling woman, came to be where she is, and as she reveals her secrets to you, you will finally understand. I cannot wait for readers to get their hands on this. It’s simply brilliant.’

J. A. Corrigan says: ‘Late last year in between lockdown one and two, I signed a two-book deal with the fabulous Canelo team. In the midst of lockdown three, I’m absolutely delighted to be working on these projects with Leodora Darlington; the most insightful, passionate and supportive editor I could have hoped for. I am very excited to be sharing with readers The Nurse, a thrilling suspense novel that will be published in May.’

Camilla Shestopal says: ‘I was immediately captivated by Julie-Ann’s writing and gripping plotlines, so I am delighted that these books have found the perfect home with Canelo and their wonderful team.’

The Nurse will be published in May 2021, in simultaneous print and ebook formats. For more information please contact publicity@canelo.co.