Viola Davis and James Patterson are joining forces to write a novel, Deadline reports.
Little, Brown will publish the book by Davis, the celebrated actor, and Patterson, the bestselling crime novelist, in 2025 or 2026. The novel, as yet untitled, will tell the story of a judge in the southern U.S. who must make a decision that will change the course of her life and, possibly, the country.
Davis, known for her roles in films including Doubt, The Help, and Fences, and the television series How To Get Away With Murder, is the author of two previous books: the children’s book Corduroy Takes a Bow, co-written with B.G. Hennessy and illustrated by Jody Wheeler, and the memoir Finding Me. The audiobook version of the latter book won Davis a Grammy, giving her “EGOT” status, meaning that she has earned Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony awards.
Patterson, the author or co-author of more than 200 books, has collaborated with celebrities before. He wrote two thrillers with former President Bill Clinton, The President Is Missing and The President’s Daughter, and a novel with country music star Dolly Parton, Run, Rose, Run.
“It is an honor to work with Viola Davis,” Patterson said in a statement. “I’ve long admired Viola as an actress, producer, and writer. Her memoir, Finding Me, was among the most insightful and uplifting I’ve ever read. Her gift of storytelling in film and beyond, as well as her generous spirit, is without peer. And there has rarely been a more important time to spotlight the subjects raised in this novel. I could not have asked for a better partner than Viola.”
Michael Schaub is a contributing writer.
