The Seagull: Ann Cleeves (Vera Stanhope)

Product Information

The Seagull is a searing new novel by Sunday Times bestselling author Ann Cleeves, about corruption deep in the heart of a community, and fragile, and fracturing, family relationships.

I went into reading The Seagull with a certain degree of trepidation. It is always risky reading a book that is part of an established series. The Seagull is my introduction to the work of renowned British crime author Ann Cleeves. Although I have heard of the successful Vera and Shetland television series, I also haven’t watched any episodes of these popular adaptations. So I went into reading The Seagull with fresh eyes. I am glad I took a chance on reading The Seagull and on the work of Ann Cleeves, as I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. I believe this was down to the command Ann Cleeves has of her characters, setting and plot. I also found Cleeves has an easy writing style that immediately drew me into the unfolding events of this solid British crime novel.Her evidential insights in this series have rarely amounted to much more than going through phone records, bank statements and CCTV, so we can’t say we’re that impressed with her detective abilities; but she is becoming a more rounded character, and all the better for it. As Vera’s past collides dangerously with the present, she will have to confront her unwanted memories and face the possibility that her father was involved in what happened. The truth is about to come out, but is Vera ready for what it will reveal?

Aaah, another new author discovery! I had such high hopes; the cover and blurb reminded me of David Baldacci… and I was similarly underwhelmed when reading my first Cleeves book. It would be foolish to discount Vera because she doesn't dress smartly--she can outfox even the wiliest of criminals, while wearing whatever she pleases, and readers will delight in getting the chance to see how such a quirky character evolved."— Library Journal on The Crow TrapI know this is a series on TV, but I think my imagination does s better job, and I am always hesitant to watch something that may change the way I view either the characters or the series. If you enjoy police procedurals you should definitely try this series.