(New York) A thriller about a female judge in the contemporary rural South will have two very famous and very different authors: Oscar-winning actress Viola Davis and bestselling novelist James Patterson.
Little, Brown and Company announced Tuesday that Davis and Patterson are collaborating on a novel, which has not yet been titled and is scheduled for release in 2025 or 2026.
The book will tell the story of “dynamic and brilliant” Judge Mary Stone, who faces “a decision with seismic implications for her small county, and potentially the entire nation.”
It will be Davis’ first work of adult fiction, having previously written her autobiography Finding Me and the illustrated story for children Corduroy Takes a Bow.
It’s another high-profile partnership for Patterson, whose previous co-authors range from Bill Clinton to Dolly Parton. The novel Eruptionfor 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 a character as fascinating as Judge Mary Stone has been an extraordinary experience, and I think readers will be deeply moved by her journey.”
Patterson got the idea for the novel after reading Finding Me and reached out to Davis, who he said has “a gift for storytelling” and a “generous spirit.”
“I couldn’t have asked for a better partner than Viola,” he said in a statement.
Further details about the book, including film rights, were not immediately released. Financial terms were also not disclosed.