Ann Cleeves

British author Ann Cleeves (b. 1954) worked as a probation officer, a cook at a bird observatory, and in the coastguard before dedicating herself to writing books. In 2006, she won the prestigious Duncan Lawrie Dagger Award (now known as the Gold Dagger Award, following a change in sponsorship) from the Crime Writers' Association for her book "Raven Black." Three of Ann Cleeves' novels featuring detective Vera Stanhope—"Hidden Depths," "Telling Tales," and "Crows Trap"—have been adapted for television by ITV, starring Brenda Blethyn. She lives and works in North Tyneside, in the northeast of England. Her website is www.anncleeves.com.