First books sold after fierce bidding war

Ruth Jones is to release two novels, after a fierce bidding war between publishers.

The first book from the creator of Stella, called Never Greener, will now be published in spring 2018. It is described as 'a witty and wise story of life's second chances and the dangers of taking them.'

The rights were snapped up by Transworld in a major deal, secured after an auction with nine rival publishers, industry website The Bookseller reports.

Jones, who also co-created Gavin And Stacey with James Corden, said becoming an author was 'hugely exciting'.

She added: 'I love creating characters in scripts but now I get to go inside their heads. Let's just hope I don't mess it up!' 

Transworld publisher Bill Scott-Kerr said that when he read Never Greener, 'Ruth's talent which had been so evident on the small screen was writ large on the page - her humanity, her humour and her wisdom. I cannot wait to bring this novel to a wider reading public. They are in for a treat.'

The book is set in Edinburgh as described as 'a darkly funny tale of marital infidelity and growing old together'. 

Published: 1 Apr 2016