Ann Cleeves, a celebrated British mystery writer, paints vivid tales set in Northumberland’s rugged landscapes and the Scottish Highlands, capturing the raw beauty that mirrors the dark crimes she delves into.
Central to her stories is Detective Inspector Vera Stanhope, a sharp and complex sleuth with a troubled past, concealing empathy behind her gruff exterior. She unravels human complexities, revealing hidden truths within seemingly ordinary lives.
Cleeves also brings forth DI Jimmy Perez, a compassionate investigator navigating murder mysteries in the remote Scottish Highlands, marked by emotional depth and an unwavering resolve to uncover reality’s layers.
Her novels are praised for authentic portrayals and atmospheric settings, earning accolades such as the CWA Gold Dagger for ‘Raven Black’ and the Duncan Lawrie Dagger for ‘The Long Call.’ Her compelling plots and nuanced characters resonate within the mystery genre.
Palmer-Jones Books
A Bird in the Hand (1999) This thrilling novel by Ann Cleeves takes readers to the tranquil island of Hilbre, where a murder disrupts the peace of a birdwatching retreat. As elderly naturalist George Palmer-Jones investigates, he delves into the island’s hidden secrets and uncovers a web of rivalries among the inhabitants. The contrast between the idyllic setting and the dark depths of the crime creates a suspenseful and captivating read.
Come Death and High Water (2001) George and Molly Palmer-Jones, a couple with a passion for birdwatching, find themselves drawn into a mystery when a murder rocks the peaceful island of Gillibry. The idyllic setting, surrounded by stunning scenery and rich wildlife, proves to be the perfect backdrop for a suspenseful tale of intrigue. As George and Molly delve deeper into the investigation, they must rely on their sharp minds and local knowledge to uncover the truth behind the murder.
Murder in Paradise (2004) When a renowned art critic is found murdered on the idyllic island of Sark, George and Molly Palmer-Jones are called in to investigate. The picturesque setting, with its quaint villages and breathtaking views, serves as a stark contrast to the dark deed that has taken place. As George and Molly navigate the complexities of island life and uncover the secrets hidden beneath its surface, they must find the courage and determination to bring the killer to justice.
A Prey to Murder (1989)
In the isolated coastal community of Saltmarshe, a murder shatters the tranquility. Detective Inspector Jimmy Perez investigates, uncovering a web of deceit, hidden rivalries, and buried secrets. The bleak Northumbrian landscape mirrors the dark undercurrents of the village, while a young witness’s fragmented recollections add to the mystery. As Perez delves deeper, he confronts his own troubled past while navigating the labyrinthine relationships of Saltmarshe residents.
Another Man’s Poison (1991)
A series of mysterious poisonings plunges the peaceful fishing village of Fetlar into chaos. Detective Inspector Jimmy Perez, called in to investigate, uncovers a tangled web of relationships, long-held grudges, and secrets that have festered for years. The harsh beauty of the Shetland Islands contrasts sharply with the darkness of the poisonings, while the isolation of the community intensifies the suspense. Perez, wrestling with his own demons and the challenges of life on the remote islands, must rely on his sharp intellect and unwavering determination to expose the truth and bring the killer to justice.
Sea Fever (1996)
A young fisherman’s death in his boat off the coast of Caithness sends shockwaves through the close-knit fishing community. Detective Inspector Jimmy Perez arrives to investigate, uncovering a web of deceit, hidden rivalries, and a deep-seated fear of the sea. The rugged coastline and stormy seas of Caithness add to the suspense, while the community’s dependence on the sea for their livelihood creates a sense of tension and suspicion. Perez, drawn to the raw beauty of the Scottish coast, must carefully navigate the complex relationships and hidden agendas of the townsfolk while unraveling the mystery behind the fisherman’s death.
The Mill on the Shore (1994)
Amidst the picturesque backdrop of the Northumbrian coast, a murder disrupts the tranquil life of George Palmer-Jones, an elderly naturalist. As he delves into the investigation, he uncovers a web of hidden secrets and long-held grudges among the local community. The idyllic setting of the mill and the surrounding countryside contrasts sharply with the dark events that have transpired, creating a suspenseful and atmospheric read.
High Island Blues (1996)
A murder on the idyllic island of High Island shatters the tranquility of a birdwatching retreat. When a well-loved member of the birding community is found dead, George and Molly Palmer-Jones, seasoned crime-solvers and bird enthusiasts, are drawn into the investigation. As they delve into the lives of the island’s residents, they uncover a web of hidden rivalries and long-buried resentments. The picturesque setting of High Island, with its lush vegetation and abundant birdlife, provides a stark contrast to the dark secrets that lie beneath its surface.
Vera Stanhope Books
The Mill on the Shore (1994)
Amidst the picturesque backdrop of the Northumbrian coast, a murder disrupts the tranquil life of George Palmer-Jones, an elderly naturalist. As he delves into the investigation, he uncovers a web of hidden secrets and long-held grudges among the local community. The idyllic setting of the mill and the surrounding countryside contrasts sharply with the dark events that have transpired, creating a suspenseful and atmospheric read.
High Island Blues (1996)
A murder on the idyllic island of High Island shatters the tranquility of a birdwatching retreat. When a well-loved member of the birding community is found dead, George and Molly Palmer-Jones, seasoned crime-solvers and bird enthusiasts, are drawn into the investigation. As they delve into the lives of the island’s residents, they uncover a web of hidden rivalries and long-buried resentments. The picturesque setting of High Island, with its lush vegetation and abundant birdlife, provides a stark contrast to the dark secrets that lie beneath its surface.
Inspector Ramsay Books
A Lesson in Dying (2008)
On the idyllic island of Sheringham, a murder shatters the tranquility of a music festival. As Detective Inspector Vera Stanhope investigates, she uncovers a web of hidden secrets, long-held grudges, and buried rivalries among the festival’s organizers and performers. The picturesque setting of the island contrasts sharply with the dark events that have transpired, creating a suspenseful and atmospheric read.
Murder in My Backyard (2009)
When a young woman is found murdered in a seemingly peaceful village in the Northumbrian countryside, Detective Inspector Vera Stanhope is called in to investigate. As she delves into the lives of the villagers, she uncovers a tangled web of relationships, long-held grudges, and buried secrets. The stark landscape of the Northumbrian coast mirrors the dark undercurrents of the village, while Vera’s determination to uncover the truth drives the suspenseful narrative.
A Day in the Death of Dorothea Cassidy (2010)
In the close-knit community of Otterbridge, the tranquil rhythm of life is disrupted when the kindly vicar’s wife, Dorothea Cassidy, is found murdered. Detective Inspector Stephen Ramsay takes on the case, and as he delves into Dorothea’s life, he uncovers a web of hidden secrets and long-held grudges. The picturesque setting of the village and the tranquility of the local summer carnival provide a stark contrast to the darkness that has been unleashed.
Killjoy (2011)
In the idyllic coastal village of St. Mary’s, a murder shatters the tranquility. Detective Inspector Vera Stanhope, drawn to the village’s charm and resilience, is brought in to investigate. As she delves into the lives of the islanders, she uncovers a web of hidden secrets, long-held grudges, and buried rivalries. The picturesque setting of St. Mary’s and the warmth of its community provide a stark contrast to the dark events that have transpired, creating a suspenseful and atmospheric read.
The Healers (2012)
In the remote Scottish Highlands, a respected healer is found murdered in her cottage. Detective Inspector Jimmy Perez, drawn to the rugged beauty of the Highlands, is called in to investigate. As he delves into the lives of the villagers, he uncovers a web of hidden secrets, long-held grudges, and buried rivalries. The isolation of the community intensifies the suspense, as Perez races against time to identify the killer before more lives are lost.
The Baby Snatcher (2013)
The tranquility of a small Northumberland village is shattered when a young woman is found murdered, and her baby has been taken. Detective Inspector Vera Stanhope, known for her sharp intellect and no-nonsense approach, is assigned to the case. As she delves into the lives of the suspects, she uncovers a trail of deceit, long-held grudges, and buried secrets. The harsh beauty of the Northumberland landscape provides a backdrop for a suspenseful and atmospheric tale of murder, abduction, and the unbreakable bond between mother and child.
Vera Stanhope Books
The Crow Trap (1999)
In the picturesque Northumberland countryside, the tranquility is shattered when three women, engaged in an environmental survey, are found dead. Detective Inspector Vera Stanhope, known for her sharp intellect and no-nonsense approach, is assigned to the case. As she delves into the lives of the women and the surrounding community, she uncovers a web of secrets, rivalries, and hidden motives. The harsh beauty of the Northumberland landscape provides a backdrop for a suspenseful and atmospheric tale of murder and deceit.
Telling Tales (2001)
When a respected local figure is found murdered in his home, the idyllic town of Saltmarshe is plunged into shock. Detective Inspector Vera Stanhope returns to investigate, her knowledge of the community proving invaluable as she navigates the complex web of relationships and hidden agendas. As she digs deeper into the suspects’ lives, she uncovers a trail of deceit, long-held grudges, and buried secrets. The stark landscape of the Northumbrian coast mirrors the dark undercurrents of the town, while Vera’s unwavering determination to uncover the truth drives the suspenseful narrative.
Hidden Depths (2005)
In the peaceful fishing village of Fetlar, the tranquility is shattered when a young woman is found murdered in a remote cottage. Detective Inspector Jimmy Perez, familiar with the harsh beauty of the Shetland Islands, is called in to investigate. As he delves into the lives of the islanders, he uncovers a web of secrets, rivalries, and long-held grudges. The isolation of the community intensifies the suspense, as Perez races against time to identify the killer before more lives are lost. Perez’s determination to bring justice to the victim is juxtaposed with the harsh realities of life on the Shetland Islands, creating a compelling and atmospheric mystery.
Silent Voices (2007)
When a local man is found dead in a secluded cottage, the close-knit community of Berwick-upon-Tweed is thrown into disarray. Detective Inspector Vera Stanhope, known for her intuitive understanding of people, is called in to investigate. As she delves into the lives of the suspects, she uncovers a history of betrayal, long-held resentments, and a deep-seated fear of the past. The bustling market town of Berwick provides a stark contrast to the secrets and darkness that lie beneath its surface, while Vera’s determination to uncover the truth drives the suspenseful narrative.
The Seagull (2017)
When a young woman’s body is found washed up on a windswept beach, the idyllic seaside town of Tynemouth is plunged into turmoil. Detective Inspector Vera Stanhope, familiar with the harsh realities of life on the coast, is called in to investigate. As she delves into the lives of the townsfolk, she uncovers a web of hidden secrets, long-held grudges, and buried resentments. The rugged beauty of the Northumberland coast provides a backdrop for a suspenseful and atmospheric tale of murder, betrayal, and the enduring power of the past.
The Glass Room (2016)
In the picturesque village of Seaton, a murder in a grand glass-walled mansion shatters the tranquility. Detective Inspector Vera Stanhope is called in to investigate, drawn to the stark beauty of the coastline and the secrets that lie within the mansion’s walls. As she delves into the lives of the suspects, she uncovers a web of hidden desires, long-held grudges, and buried rivalries. The imposing glass room, symbolizing wealth and isolation, casts a chilling shadow over the mystery.
Harbour Street (2017)
The tranquility of Lindisfarne, an idyllic island off the Northumberland coast, is shattered when a beloved local figure is found murdered. Detective Inspector Vera Stanhope returns to investigate, drawn to the island’s rich history and the complex web of relationships among its inhabitants. As she navigates the labyrinth of secrets and hidden agendas, she uncovers a history of betrayal, long-held resentments, and a deep-seated fear of the past. The picturesque setting of Lindisfarne and the tranquility of its sheltered harbor provide a stark contrast to the darkness that has been unleashed.
The Moth Catcher (2019)
In the quiet village of Portwenn, a man is found murdered in his home, his body concealed behind a wall of glass butterflies. Detective Inspector Vera Stanhope is called in to investigate, drawn to the quaint charm of the village and the enigma of the moth catcher himself. As she delves into the lives of the suspects, she uncovers a web of hidden secrets, long-held grudges, and buried rivalries. The picturesque setting of Portwenn, with its colorful houses and tranquil atmosphere, provides a stark contrast to the dark events that have transpired.
Frozen (2020)
Amidst the picturesque Northumberland countryside, a woman’s body is found frozen in a quarry. Detective Inspector Vera Stanhope is called in to investigate, drawn to the harsh beauty of the landscape and the secrets that lie beneath its frozen surface. As she delves into the lives of the suspects, she uncovers a web of hidden secrets, long-held grudges, and buried rivalries. The frigid winter setting mirrors the darkness of the crime, while Vera’s determination to uncover the truth drives the suspenseful narrative.
The Darkest Evening (2021)
In the peaceful village of Portwenn, a community meeting turns deadly when a respected member of the community is murdered. Detective Inspector Vera Stanhope is called in to investigate, drawn to the village’s close-knit community and the secrets that lie beneath its surface. As she navigates the intricate web of relationships and hidden agendas, she uncovers a history of betrayal, long-held resentments, and a deep-seated fear of the past. The picturesque setting of Portwenn and the tranquil atmosphere of its community provide a stark contrast to the darkness that has been unleashed.
The Woman on the Island (2022)
The tranquility of a remote Scottish island is shattered when a woman’s body is found on a beach. Detective Inspector Jimmy Perez is called in to investigate, drawn to the island’s rugged beauty and the secrets that lie hidden within its community. As he delves into the lives of the islanders, he uncovers a web of hidden secrets, long-held grudges, and buried rivalries. The isolation of the island intensifies the suspense, as Perez races against time to identify the killer before more lives are lost. The stark landscape of the Scottish Highlands provides a haunting backdrop for this suspenseful and atmospheric tale of murder and deceit.
The Rising Tide (2023)
The picturesque Northumberland coastline is the setting for a murder mystery when a young woman is found drowned near the beach. Detective Inspector Vera Stanhope is called in to investigate, drawn to the beauty of the coastline and the secrets that lie beneath its surface. As she delves into the lives of the suspects, she uncovers a web of hidden secrets, long-held grudges, and buried rivalries. The rising tide adds to the suspense, as Vera races against time to identify the killer before more lives are lost. The stark landscape of the Northumberland coast provides a haunting backdrop for this suspenseful and atmospheric tale of murder and deceit.
Shetland Island Books
Raven Black (1997)
Amidst the stark beauty of the Northumberland coastline, a young woman’s body is found on a remote beach, her death shrouded in mystery. Detective Inspector Jimmy Perez, drawn to the bleak landscape and the secrets it harbors, is assigned to the case. As he delves into the lives of the suspects, he uncovers a web of hidden desires, long-held grudges, and buried rivalries. The rugged beauty of the Northumberland coast serves as a haunting backdrop for this suspenseful and atmospheric tale of murder and deceit.
White Nights (2000)
In the isolated community of Norland, a young woman mysteriously vanishes from a remote lighthouse. Detective Inspector Vera Stanhope, known for her sharp intellect and no-nonsense approach, is called in to investigate. As she navigates the labyrinth of secrets and hidden agendas, she uncovers a history of betrayal, long-held resentments, and a deep-seated fear of the past. The stark landscape of the Northumbrian coast intensifies the suspense, as Vera races against time to uncover the truth before more lives are lost.
Red Bones (2002)
On the remote Scottish island of Foula, a body is found on the cliffs, the victim having met a gruesome end. Detective Inspector Jimmy Perez, drawn to the island’s rugged beauty and the secrets it holds, is assigned to the case. As he delves into the lives of the islanders, he uncovers a web of hidden secrets, long-held grudges, and buried rivalries. The isolation of the island intensifies the suspense, as Perez races against time to identify the killer before more lives are lost. The harsh landscape of the Scottish Highlands provides a haunting backdrop for this suspenseful and atmospheric tale of murder and deceit.
Blue Lightning (2003)
In the tranquil village of Lynmouth, a young woman is found dead on the beach, her body washed up on the shore. Detective Inspector Vera Stanhope, drawn to the village’s charm and the enigma of the victim herself, is assigned to the case. As she delves into the lives of the suspects, she uncovers a web of hidden secrets, long-held grudges, and buried rivalries. The picturesque setting of Lynmouth, with its winding streets and quaint cottages, provides a stark contrast to the dark events that have transpired.
Dead Water (2006)
The tranquility of the Northumberland coast is shattered when a man is found dead in his boat, his body floating in the icy waters. Detective Inspector Jimmy Perez, familiar with the harsh realities of life on the sea, is called in to investigate. As he delves into the lives of the fishermen and their families, he uncovers a web of hidden secrets, long-held grudges, and buried resentments. The harsh beauty of the Northumberland coast provides a backdrop for a suspenseful and atmospheric tale of murder, betrayal, and the enduring power of the sea.
Thin Air (2008)
When a young woman vanishes from a remote mountain retreat, Detective Inspector Jimmy Perez is called in to investigate. As he delves into the lives of the retreat’s guests, he uncovers a web of hidden secrets, long-held grudges, and buried rivalries. The harsh beauty of the Scottish Highlands provides a haunting backdrop for this suspenseful and atmospheric tale of murder, deceit, and the enduring power of the past.
Too Good to Be True (2009)
Amidst the idyllic backdrop of the Northumberland countryside, a murder shatters the tranquility of a nature reserve. Detective Inspector Vera Stanhope, known for her sharp intellect and no-nonsense approach, is called in to investigate. As she delves into the lives of the suspects, she uncovers a web of hidden secrets, long-held grudges, and buried rivalries. The harsh beauty of the Northumberland landscape intensifies the suspense, as Vera races against time to uncover the truth before more lives are lost.
Cold Earth (2011)
Amidst the bleak beauty of the Northumberland coast, a man is found buried in the frozen soil, his body concealed beneath the icy grip of winter. Detective Inspector Vera Stanhope, drawn to the harsh landscape and the secrets it harbors, is assigned to the case. As she delves into the lives of the suspects, she uncovers a web of hidden desires, long-held grudges, and buried rivalries. The frigid winter setting mirrors the darkness of the crime, while Vera’s determination to uncover the truth drives the suspenseful narrative.
Wild Fire (2013)
In the tranquil village of Portwenn, a murder shatters the peace when a respected local figure is found dead. Detective Inspector Vera Stanhope, drawn to the village’s charm and the complexities of island life, is called in to investigate. As she navigates the labyrinth of secrets and hidden agendas, she uncovers a history of betrayal, long-held resentments, and a deep-seated fear of the past. The picturesque setting of Portwenn and the tranquility of its sheltered harbour provide a stark contrast to the darkness that has been unleashed.
Two Rivers Books
The Long Call (2019)
In the tranquil village of Portwenn, a murder shatters the peace when a respected local figure is found dead. Detective Inspector Matthew Venn, known for his sharp intellect and no-nonsense approach, is drawn to the village’s charm and the complexities of island life, and assigned to investigate. As he navigates the labyrinth of secrets and hidden agendas, he uncovers a history of betrayal, long-held resentments, and a deep-seated fear of the past. The picturesque setting of Portwenn and the tranquility of its sheltered harbor provide a stark contrast to the darkness that has been unleashed.
The Heron’s Cry (2021)
In the quaint village of Cley-next-the-Sea, a murder shatters the peace when a renowned artist is found dead in her home. Detective Inspector Matthew Venn, familiar with the harsh realities of life by the sea, is called in to investigate. As he delves into the lives of the suspects, he uncovers a web of hidden desires, long-held grudges, and buried rivalries. The picturesque setting of Cley-next-the-Sea and the tranquil atmosphere of its coastal community provide a stark contrast to the darkness that has been unleashed.
The Girls on the Shore (2022)
On the isolated island of Sandhamn, a young woman is found murdered on the beach, her body washed up on the shore. Detective Inspector Matthew Venn, drawn to the island’s beauty and the enigma of the victim herself, is assigned to the case. As he delves into the lives of the suspects, he uncovers a web of hidden secrets, long-held grudges, and buried rivalries. The picturesque setting of Sandhamn, with its charming cottages and breathtaking views, provides a stark contrast to the dark events that have transpired.
The Raging Storm (2023)
The tranquility of the Northumberland coast is shattered when a young woman is found drowned near the beach. Detective Inspector Matthew Venn, drawn to the beauty of the coastline and the secrets it harbors, is called in to investigate. As he delves into the lives of the suspects, he uncovers a web of hidden secrets, long-held grudges, and buried rivalries. The rising tide adds to the suspense, as Vera races against time to identify the killer before more lives are lost.
Standalone Novels
The Sleeping and the Dead (1994)
Amidst the tranquil backdrop of the Northumberland coastline, a murder shatters the peace of a small Northumbrian community. Detective Inspector Vera Stanhope, known for her sharp intellect and no-nonsense approach, is called in to investigate. As she delves into the lives of the suspects, she uncovers a web of hidden secrets, long-held grudges, and buried rivalries. The harsh beauty of the Northumberland landscape intensifies the suspense, as Vera races against time to uncover the truth before more lives are lost.
Burial of Ghosts (1995)
On the remote Scottish island of Foula, a young woman disappears without a trace. Detective Inspector Jimmy Perez, drawn to the island’s rugged beauty and the secrets it harbours, is called in to investigate. As he delves into the lives of the islanders, he uncovers a web of hidden desires, long-held grudges, and buried rivalries. The isolation of the island intensifies the suspense, as Perez races against time to find the missing woman before it’s too late.
And that’s all Ann Cleeves books, ordered by category. Did you have any idea Ann Cleeves wrote quite so many books?