A Vernon author's newest novel has led to the signing of a massive, seven-book deal with a multi-national book publisher. 

James Osborne, who has more than 30-years of experience as both an author and writer, signed a seven-book contract with Next Chapter Publishing. The first novel in the series, Prescription for Deception, is an international crime thriller.

"When Next Chapter accepted Prescription for Deception, I asked the company to consider my current novels," said Osborne. "They invited me to submit and two weeks later we signed a long-term contract covering three new books and the re-release of my four current books."

Osborne said the other new titles will be a sequel to his thriller, The Ultimate Threat, which was an Amazon number one bestseller, and a second short story collection called Adventures, a sequel to his award-winning first collection, Encounters.

Next Chapter founder and CEO Mikka Hannila said that the contract with Osborne allows for publication of all titles in soft cover, ebook and hardcover.

His books are being posted on ten high-end marketing websites in Canada, USA, Australia, Italy, and Japan.

Prescription for Deception is the first book in a trilogy called The Secret Shepherd Conspiracies. It follows Paul Winston, whose life as a quiet Colorado rancher quickly changes, as he becomes the target of a powerful drug syndicate.

Osborne will be at Coles Books at Vernon's Village Green Shopping Centre on Saturday, Oct. 19 from noon to 3 p.m. for a book signing.