An upcoming thriller about a judge in the contemporary rural South will feature two very famous and very different authors, Oscar winner Viola Davis and best-selling novelist James Patterson.
NEW YORK — An upcoming thriller about a judge in the contemporary rural South will feature two very famous and very different authors: Oscar winner Viola Davis and mega-sale novelist James Patterson.
Little, Brown and Company announced Tuesday that Davis and Patterson are collaborating on a novel, currently untitled and scheduled for 2025 or 2026, in which “dynamic and brilliant” judge Mary Stone faces “a decision with seismic repercussions for her small county, and potentially the entire nation.”
It will be the first work of adult fiction from Davis, whose previous books include the memoir “Finding Me” and the illustrated story “Corduroy Takes a Bow.” It’s the latest high-profile partnership for Patterson, whose previous co-writers range from Bill Clinton to Dolly Parton. The novel “Eruption”, for which Patterson completed a manuscript left by the late Michael Crichton, is one of the most popular books of the summer.
“James’ ability to weave compelling narratives with depth and suspense is unparalleled and I am honored to work alongside him,” Davis said in a statement. “Writing about such a compelling character as Judge Mary Stone was an extraordinary experience, and I believe readers will be deeply moved by her journey.”
Patterson, who came up with the idea after reading “Finding Me” and contacting Davis, said in a statement that the actor has a “gift for storytelling” and a “generous spirit.”
“I couldn’t have asked for a better partner than Viola,” Patterson said.
Additional details about the book, including film rights, were not immediately available. Financial terms were not disclosed. The project was led by Little, Brown; Patterson’s representatives, Robert Barnett and Deneen Howell of Williams & Connolly and JVL Media, a “full-service media packaging company and independent publishing company” that Davis helped found.
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