In addition to the three novels (plus one forthcoming) which make up her Shetland Quartet, Ann Cleeves has also written a short story, The Soothmoothers, which features Jimmy Perez. It was written for Radio 4's Red Herrings series, and broadcast on April 30th 2009, read by Marnie Baxter.
Read The Soothmoothers exclusively on this web site.
We are very happy to be able to publish the news - announced at the Shetland launch of Red Bones - that Plain Vanilla production company have signed to produce a television adaptation of the Jimmy Perez mysteries. Foz Allan, of Plain Vanilla, told us:
"We are delighted to have the opportunity to work with Ann Cleeves and the skilled television writer Mark Grieg on the Shetland Quartet. Ann's vivid prose has created a visually compelling and intriguing environment, together with a cast of extraordinary characters that help to make what we believe is a fantastic television offering. Translating novels for the screen is a tricky journey full of hidden complications and potential disasters. We hope however, that by working closely with Ann, we can retain the essence of the quartet with their atmospheric evocations of the seasons and graphic imagery while continue to tell a gripping yarn in an emotionally forceful way.
"Plain Vanilla aims to produce commercial, primetime mainstream drama for UK broadcasters and will partially finance and license its dramas internationally through BBC Worldwide and other distribution partners. Unlike most UK drama producers, Plain Vanilla is a writer-led production company and aims to attract the best writing talent.
"Plain Vanilla was originally founded by Dominic Minghella and is backed by BBC Worldwide. Foz Allan, Sarah Beardsall and Dominic Minghella are all partners in the production company. Executive Producer Foz Allan's credits include Robin Hood, Vital Signs and Casualty. Writer and Executive Producer Dominic Minghella's credits include Robin Hood, Doc Martin and Hamish Macbeth. Development Producer and Casting Director Sarah Beardsall's credits include Life Begins, Servants, Liverpool One and Hustle. Writer Mark Grieg has previously worked on Life on Mars and Ashes to Ashes"
Find out where the books are set with our map of Shetland.
Read an interview about Ann Cleeves and the Shetland Quartet in The Times Online.
For more news, read a recent profile of Ann Cleeves in The Scotsman.