There’s something quietly thrilling about an Ann Cleeves novel. Maybe it’s how she conjures brooding landscapes that seem to hold their breath. Or perhaps it’s her gift for crafting detectives who don’t just solve crimes—they carry their mysteries.
From the windswept Shetland Islands to the moody corners of Northumberland, Cleeves invites readers into worlds where silence is suspicious, and nothing is ever quite what it seems.
With bestselling series like Vera, Shetland, and the newer Two Rivers, her work has not only defined modern British crime fiction but has become essential reading for mystery lovers everywhere.
If you’re wondering where to begin—or how best to follow her twisting, character-rich stories—this guide lays out her books in the order that reveals her storytelling at its most powerful.
Discovering Ann Cleeves’ Detective Series
Ann Cleeves has written an award-winning collection of detective series that have captivated readers worldwide. The ‘Crow Trap’ introduces the amateur sleuth and unconventional detective inspector Vera Stanhope, a character who has since become a hallmark of Cleeves’ work.
In ‘A Bird in the Hand,’ the coupling of birdwatching with murder investigation creates a unique narrative. Each series features detectives who must unravel the truth behind the deaths of a young woman in ‘Hidden Depths’ or uncover the killer strikes that shatter the tranquility of North Devon in ‘The Long Call.’
From the heat of a ‘Telling Tales’ summer on the Northumberland coast to the chilling discovery of a teenager’s body, Cleeves’ novels are a masterclass in crime fiction, weaving together the lives of characters like Marilyn Howe, Hannah Morton, and Lizzie Bartholomew in a tapestry of intrigue and suspense.
Vera Stanhope Books – A Gritty Female Detective
Ann Cleeves’s Vera Stanhope series features a gritty female detective whose sharp wit and keen investigative skills set her apart. This series includes titles like ‘The Crow Trap,’ ‘The Glass Room,’ ‘The Moth Catcher,’ and ‘The Rising Tide.’
Readers are taken on a journey with Vera Stanhope as she tackles complex cases and confronts her demons. Each book reveals a new layer of Stanhope’s character, a woman who stands out as a formidable force in a male-dominated field.
The ‘Woman on the Island’ and ‘Silent Voices’ further showcase Cleeves’ ability to create a rich, evocative narrative that keeps readers on edge.
Publication Order of Vera Stanhope Books
The publication order of Vera Stanhope’s books takes readers through the series’ evolution, beginning with ‘The Crow Trap’ and leading through titles like ‘The Glass Room,’ ‘The Moth Catcher,’ and ‘The Rising Tide.’
Following the sequence allows readers to develop a deep connection with the ‘Woman on the Island’ as she navigates through the intricacies of each case. Whether a complex family drama or a sinister crime, each installment builds upon the last, enriching the overarching narrative and deepening the reader’s understanding of Stanhope’s character.
The Crow Trap – Starting the Journey with Vera
‘The Crow Trap’ marks the introduction of the unconventional detective inspector Vera Stanhope. Set against the backdrop of a cottage on the North Pennines, the plot revolves around leader Rachael and the body of her friend Bella Furness. Initially ruled a suicide, the discovery of a fourth woman turns the case on its head.
As Stanhope delves deeper into the investigation, she uncovers layers of secrets and lies that challenge the initial assumptions about Bella’s death. This first novel sets the tone for a series that is as much about the complexities of human relationships as it is about solving crimes.
The Seagull – Unraveling the Latest Mysteries
In ‘The Seagull,’ the latest installment of the Vera Stanhope series, readers are once again immersed in the enigmatic world of the seasoned detective. This time, Stanhope confronts a case that stretches back to her past, forcing her to navigate the intricate web of a long-standing criminal underworld.
The intertwining of personal history with the demands of the present investigation adds a compelling depth to Stanhope’s character as she works tirelessly to piece together the puzzle and bring the truth to light.
Shetland Island Series – Atmospheric Crime in the Scottish Isles
The Shetland Island series transports readers to the Scottish Isles, where the rugged landscape is the backdrop for atmospheric crime stories. In this series, Detective Matthew Venn tackles cases that range from the mysterious death of a young girl to the urgency of a killer on the loose. Each novel is steeped in Shetland’s rich culture and traditions, adding an immersive quality to the unfolding gripping narratives.
Publication Order of Shetland Island Books
To begin your journey into the Shetland Islands, start with Raven Black (2006), the atmospheric first novel that introduces detective Jimmy Perez and the haunting quiet of Shetland life. Next comes White Nights (2008), followed by Red Bones (2009).
The series continues with Blue Lightning (2010), Dead Water (2013), Thin Air (2014), Cold Earth (2016), and finally Wild Fire (2018). This is the exact order in which Ann Cleeves wrote them, and it’s the best way to experience the slow burn of each mystery and the evolution of Perez as a character.
Inspector Ramsay Books – Early Works of Crime Fiction
The Inspector Ramsay series represents some of Ann Cleeves’ early works of crime fiction. In these books, readers are introduced to the methodical and thoughtful Inspector Ramsay as he investigates the ‘Death of Dorothea Cassidy’ and other perplexing cases. The series is marked by its intricate plotting and deep exploration of character psychology, setting the stage for Cleeves’ future success as a crime writer.
Publication Order of Inspector Ramsay Books
Ann Cleeves’ lesser-known but no less intriguing series featuring Inspector Stephen Ramsay is a must-read for classic British crime fiction fans. The series consists of six books, all written in the 1990s, and follows Ramsay as he investigates crimes in the small, fictional Northumberland town of Heppleburn. If you’re looking to read them in the correct order, here’s how to do it:
- A Lesson in Dying (1990)
- Murder in My Backyard (1991)
- A Day in the Death of Dorothea Cassidy (1992)
- Killjoy (1993)
- The Healers (1995)
- The Baby Snatcher (1997)
Though not as widely known as her Vera or Shetland series, these novels lay the groundwork for Cleeves’ trademark style—deeply human characters, atmospheric settings, and slow-burning suspense.
A Lesson in Dying – Inspector Ramsay’s Introduction
This is where it all begins. A Lesson in Dying introduces readers to Inspector Stephen Ramsay—a thoughtful, introspective detective operating in a tightly knit rural community. When a school headmaster is found hanged under suspicious circumstances, Ramsay is pulled into a web of secrets, grudges, and hidden motives.
It’s a classic “whodunnit” with modern psychological depth and the perfect starting point for anyone exploring Cleeves’ early work. The novel also establishes the tone and pacing that sets this series apart from faster, more procedural mysteries.
Palmer-Jones Books – Bird Watching Meets Sleuthing
The Palmer-Jones books blend the quiet observation of bird watching with the keen eye needed for sleuthing. This unique book series features the investigative duo of George and Molly Palmer-Jones, who employ their birding knowledge to solve crimes that baffle local authorities.
Each novel reveals the couple’s knack for uncovering the truth behind seemingly innocuous clues, demonstrating Cleeves’ versatility and creativity in crafting engaging mysteries.
Publication Order of Palmer-Jones Books
Before Vera and Shetland made her a household name, Ann Cleeves introduced readers to amateur sleuths George and Molly Palmer-Jones—a retired couple with a knack for solving crimes while birdwatching.
The Palmer-Jones series blends cosy crime with rich natural settings and quietly clever mysteries. If you’re new to this charming duo, here’s the correct order to follow:
- A Bird in the Hand (1986)
- Come Death and High Water (1987)
- Murder in Paradise (1988)
- A Prey to Murder (1989)
- Sea Fever (1991)
- Another Man’s Poison (1992)
- The Mill on the Shore (1994)
- High Island Blues (1996)
Each book works as a standalone mystery, but reading them in order allows you to appreciate the evolving dynamic between George and Molly and the subtle developments in their personal lives. It’s a great series for fans of classic British mysteries with a rural twist.
A Bird in the Hand – Where It All Began
With “A Bird in the Hand,” Ann Cleeves sets the stage for the Palmer-Jones series. In this initial installment, readers meet George Palmer-Jones and a cast of characters surrounding the suspicious death of young Tom French, found lying in a marsh.
The investigation takes George to the marsh on the Norfolk coast, where he must unravel the mystery behind Tom’s untimely demise, setting the tone for the intriguing series to follow.
Two Rivers Series – The New Detective Matthew Venn Novels
The Two Rivers series marks a new chapter in Ann Cleeves’ repertoire, featuring the introspective Detective Matthew Venn. Set against the backdrop of North Devon, this series captures the essence of a small community caught up in the wake of serious crimes, all while a raging storm of emotions and secrets threatens to surface.
Publication Order of Two Rivers Books
The Two Rivers series marks a newer chapter in Ann Cleeves’ writing career, introducing DI Matthew Venn—a quiet, introspective detective navigating personal and professional tensions in North Devon.
This series blends Cleeves’ signature atmospheric style with more contemporary themes, including identity, belonging, and community. To follow Matthew Venn’s journey from the very beginning, read the books in this publication order:
- The Long Call (2019)
- The Heron’s Cry (2021)
- The Raging Storm (2023)
Reading in order is essential here, as each book deepens your understanding of Venn’s background, his complicated relationship with his religious upbringing, and the people in his orbit—from husband Jonathan to his close-knit investigative team.
If you’re craving intelligent, slow-burning crime fiction with emotional depth, this is a series to watch—literally, too, as it has been adapted for TV.
The Long Call – Meeting Detective Venn
“The Long Call” is the compelling opener to Ann Cleeves’ Two Rivers series, where readers first encounter Detective Matthew Venn. This novel sets the scene with a body found on the beach, and as Venn digs deeper, he exposes the hidden layers of his hometown. The story masterfully intertwines personal history with a thrilling investigation, providing a rich narrative that hooks readers from the start.
Standalone Novels and Short Stories
Ann Cleeves extends her literary prowess beyond her renowned series with standalone novels and short stories. These works showcase her versatility, offering readers haunting tales and thrilling mysteries not confined to ongoing series or recurring characters. Each standalone piece is a testament to Cleeves’ ability to craft compelling narratives within a single volume or short form.
The Sleeping and the Dead – A Standalone Haunting Tale
“The Sleeping and the Dead” is a standalone novel where Detective Peter Porteous faces the chilling task of solving a cold case. The body of a teenager has been discovered, and as Porteous delves into the past, he crosses paths with Hannah Morton. Ann Cleeves has written a haunting narrative that weaves together the threads of a long-silent mystery, challenging the detective to confront the echoes of long-forgotten crimes.
Burial of Ghosts – A Thriller Outside Series Work
“Burial of Ghosts” is a gripping thriller that stands apart from Ann Cleeves’ series work. Readers are introduced to Lizzie Bartholomew, a character with a complex past and an uncertain future. The novel dives into the heart of human psychology, delivering a story that is as much about personal discovery as it is about suspense and intrigue.
Short Stories and Novellas – Bite-Sized Mystery
For those who relish bite-sized mystery, Ann Cleeves’ short stories and novellas offer thrilling narratives that can be enjoyed in one sitting. These condensed works provide the same level of suspense and satisfaction as her full-length novels, making them perfect for fans who crave a quick dose of Cleeves’ masterful storytelling.
Here’s a selection of her notable short-form works:
- The Plater (1987) – One of her earliest stories, blending suspense and psychological intrigue.
- The Harmless Pursuits (2002) – A novella featuring George and Molly Palmer-Jones, her birdwatching sleuths.
- The Soothmoothers (2015) – Part of The Starlings and Other Stories anthology, this tale explores the dark side of a small community.
- The Habit of Silence (2018) – A short Vera Stanhope story featured in Ten Year Stretch, an anthology celebrating a decade of CrimeFest.
- Frozen (2018) – Included in The CWA Anthology of Short Stories: Mystery Tour, this novella is a chilling standalone mystery.
- The Woman on the Island (2022) – A prequel novella to the Two Rivers series, offering valuable background on DI Matthew Venn and his partner Jonathan.
- The Library Book – Contributions by Ann Cleeves
In “The Library Book,” Ann Cleeves joins other renowned authors in celebrating libraries and the joy of reading. Her contribution to this anthology reflects her storytelling prowess, as she crafts narratives that honor the spirit of community and the enduring power of stories. Readers will find themselves lost in the pages, reminded of the importance of these treasured institutions.
Shetland Island Mysteries – From Page to BBC One
Ann Cleeves’ Shetland novels didn’t just captivate readers—they made the leap from page to screen with remarkable success. The BBC One adaptation, Shetland, brought Detective Jimmy Perez to life, played with quiet intensity by Douglas Henshall.
While the TV series takes inspiration from the books, it also branches into original plots after the first few seasons, meaning there are key differences in storyline and character arcs.
The show’s early episodes closely follow novels like Raven Black, White Nights, and Red Bones, capturing the bleak beauty of the Shetland landscape and the slow-burn tension that Cleeves is known for. However, as the series progresses, it diverges into fresh territory, making it a companion piece rather than a direct retelling.
Reading the books adds emotional layers and context for TV show fans that the screen can’t fully convey. And for readers discovering the novels first, the adaptation offers a visual treat that stays true to the spirit of the series, even when it strays from the text.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of Ann Cleeves’ Mystery Novels
The allure of Ann Cleeves’ novels endures as readers are captivated by her intricate plots and compelling characters. One such character, a young woman named Alice Parry, a dedicated women’s refuge leader, reflects Cleeves’ talent for creating strong, relatable protagonists who navigate through suspenseful narratives.
