Publishing Deal - M D Villiers

I've received this press release today with details of a publishing deal for M D Villiers:

Alison Hennessey, Senior Crime Editor at Harvill Secker, has acquired UK and Commonwealth rights including Canada for two books from debut crime author M. D. Villiers. The first book will be titled Western Deep.

Alison Hennessey at Harvill Secker says: ‘Western Deep is an incredibly compelling read, with a central character you’re rooting for from the very first page. Everyone I have shared it with so far here at Random House has fallen in love with Martie’s writing, and I know that she has a very bright career ahead of her.’

M. D. Villiers was shortlisted for the Crime Writers’ Association Debut Dagger in 2007.

McCarthy Letswe, notorious South African crime lord, has returned to Johannesburg after several years in exile, determined to wreak his revenge on Abaju, the Nigerian gangster responsible for Letswe’s departure, who has now taken his place at the head of the criminal hierarchy. Caught up in the turf war between the two ruthless gang leaders is Siphiwe – a 19 year old orphan determined not to let the brutality around him detract from his dreams of a better life. But as the violence on the streets intensifies, and the danger to those he loves most increases, Siphiwe is soon forced to seek help amongst criminals and police alike.