Ventura Press acquires Fitzsimmons’s debut crime novel

Ventura Press has acquired world rights to The Rising, a gripping police procedural crime novel by journalist Whitney Fitzsimmons.

The Rising follows journalist Bec Carter, who finds the bones of a baby buried in the wall of a shack next to the local church, said the publisher. When her friend Harry Adams goes missing after an attack, Bec is left as the lead suspect in his murder.

Fitzsimmons has worked as a broadcast journalist and news anchor. She’s hosted ABC TV programs including 7pm News, Business Today, Lateline Business, The Drum and Weekend Breakfast.

She said, “I have long been a fan of gripping crime novels that keep you guessing with an urgency to know more. For me as a journalist, fiction writing is an opportunity to explore social issues against the backdrop of great storytelling. I hope to give the reader something to think about while also providing a thrilling, page-turning ride.”

Ventura publisher Jane Curry said, “We are always looking for excellent Australian crime, so when The Rising came in I was already intrigued. Then, when I met the powerhouse that is former journalist Whitney Fitzsimmons, I knew we had a winner on our hands. Watch out world when this book is published!”

Ventura Press plans to release The Rising in August 2026.

Category: Local news Rights and acquisitions