Commissioning editor Kate Smith has acquired World All Language rights in e-book, paperback and audio, including film and TV, for two psychological thrillers by the author Samantha Vérant.

The first book, The Lucky Widow, is scheduled for publication in July 2024. A woman returns home from a work trip to find her wealthy husband Nate dead in the garden pond. When it’s discovered he was poisoned, she becomes suspect number one for his murder, after having told anyone who would listen that she wished her husband would drop dead. The police interview the couple’s staff who were away at the time of the murder and all insist their employer isn’t guilty of killing her husband.

Vérant’s second thriller – also set in the US – will be published in October this year.

Samantha Vérant is the Amazon charts bestselling author of several contemporary women’s fiction novels, including her most recent book The Spice Master at Bistro Exotique, and two memoirs. A former creative director from Chicago, Samantha now lives in southwestern France with her family and their rather large and adorable cat.

Vérant says:

“I’m thrilled to be working with my brilliant editor Kate Smith and the innovative team at Storm. Kate’s enthusiasm and vision for my novel are infectious and I’m truly excited to be part of the future of publishing.”

Smith says:

“Samantha’s writing immediately hooks you in with her utterly compelling tone of voice and ability to build suspense and character. With its brilliant concept, The Lucky Widow truly starts with a bang and keeps you guessing right up until its shocking ending. I can’t wait for readers to get their hands on both of her twisty thrillers, and I’m delighted to be working with such a talented storyteller as Sam.”

For more information about Samantha Vérant, you can find her on Facebook, TikTok, X, Instagram and on her website.