Reichs to write teen thrillers
15.11.09 | Benedicte Page
In the latest example of an author extending their brand, forensic thriller writer Kathy Reichs is
to produce a series of titles for young adults.
Cornerstone m.d. Susan Sandon has acquired UK and Commonwealth rights to three books in the Viral series from Cathryn Summerhayes at William Morris Endeavor Entertainment, on behalf of Jennifer Rudolph Walsh in New York, for a “significant” sum.
Described as “young adult forensic thrillers with a touch of fantasy”, the Viral books will feature Tory Brennan, the 14-year-old great-nephew of Reichs’ adult series character, forensic anthropologist Temperance Brennan.
Tory is one of five teenagers living on an isolated island who, after a veterinary experiment goes wrong, are left with heightened powers of smell, sight and hearing, increased memory, and improved strength and speed. These powers are triggered by strong emotions and cannot be called upon at will.
Sandon, who has worked with Reichs since 1998, said: “It’s a superb idea for a series which is going to be both entertaining and informative and we are very much looking forward to publishing them.”
The first title in the series will be published by Young Arrow in August 2010. Reichs is following in the footsteps of fellow Century writers James Patterson and Chris Ryan, who have also developed young adult series to complement their adult publishing.
