A Highland Perthshire book club got a grand evening with international crime writer Ann Cleeves whose crime novels and their television adaptations have thrilled millions of people in over thirty translations across the world.
“You never know where a casual conversation with your neighbour will lead,” said organiser and Fearnan resident Linda Milne.
Frances Brace, a member of the Fearnan Book Club and neighbour of James Grieve, Emeritus Professor in Forensic Medicine at Aberdeen University, whose associations with Fearnan and Kenmore extend over half a century, knew of his connections with Ann Cleeves and that he featured in her Shetland books as a forensic pathologist.
Frances asked James if Ann would be willing to come and speak in Fearnan, Loch Tay, a small place to greet such a big name in writing. Ann agreed and on October 18, delighted a packed McLean Hall of excited listeners.
James Grieve sat in on an atmospheric ‘crime’ themed stage and with gentle humour interviewed Ann.
He explained: “ Feanan locals were thoroughly entertained and stimulated as they learned about how Ann crafts her Shetland, Vera and, now, Matthew Venn novels, all with such specific and distinct geographical settings from which her characters emerge.
“She read from her latest Vera novel, The Rising Tide, recently published in hard cover and due out in paperback in February.
“ Aberfeldy independent booksellers, The Watermill, were on hand to sell Ann’s books which she graciously signed for the very appreciative attendees from around Loch Tay.”
Linda summed up the event that she’d worked hard to pull off: “The evening was a great success and exceeded all expectations.
“Since then, we’ve had so many positive and complimentary comments and delight that this event took place in Fearnan.
“James thanked Frances for her initial idea and dramatic stage
set.
“Generous donations were collected for the SCAA who have passed on their thanks for
the support given by our community.
“We hope this will lead to continuing links between Ann and Fearnan, maybe even a short story featuring Fearnan folk….perhaps not a murder!”
