Wednesday, 20 August 2025 Books+Publishing @booksandpublishing
Simon & Schuster Australia (S&S) has acquired world rights to The Secrets of Strangers by Jess Kitching, in a deal brokered by Daniel Pilkington at the Pilkington Agency.
The Secrets of Strangers , a thriller, follows author Janine who, after moving to a small village with her husband, gets caught up in a case about a missing woman.
‘After suffering a loss, Janine and her husband need a fresh start. They leave their family and everything they know in Manchester and move to picturesque Lancashire village Bamblethorpe, where they expect nothing but peace and quiet. It’ll be just what Janine, a thriller writer, needs to work on her next manuscript,’ said the publisher. ‘But the peace of their new village life is disrupted when longtime local Alexa Clarke goes missing. Did she leave her husband like some people suspect? Or is there credibility to the rumours that something more nefarious has happened to Alexa?’
Based in Canberra, Kitching is the author of several books, including her most recent novel, The Life Experiment (S&S).
S&S publisher Anthea Bariamis said, ‘[The Secrets of Strangers] has all the markings of Jess’ unique voice, combining a gripping plot and surprising twists and turns with so much heart.’
Kitching said, ‘I am so excited for readers to read The Secrets of Strangers – it has my favourite plot twist I’ve written to date!’
S&S plans to publish The Secrets of Strangers in May 2026.
Photo credit: Jess Howell.
Category: Local news Rights and acquisitions