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BBC announces new series from Death in Paradise writer with 'twists and turns'

BBC announces new series from Death in Paradise writer with 'twists and turns'

Wales Online16-05-2025

BBC announces new series from Death in Paradise writer with 'twists and turns'
This week the BBC revealed a new series is set to air on the broadcaster basked on a popular novel series.
The BBC has revealed an "action-packed" eight-part adaptation of J. J. Arcanjo's popular novel series, and it promises to be thrilling.
Death in Paradise writer Justin Young is behind the upcoming series titled Crookhaven.

It's been described as a "coming-of-age drama full of exciting twists and turns". Crookhaven will follow a group of high-achieving young crooks at a secret school who are trained to use their skills in "deception" and "crimnastics" for good.

A synopsis for the show reads: "Centred around pickpocketing genius Gabriel and his archrival, headmaster's daughter Penelope, the series follows a group of eight very different, young international students as they compete for the coveted Crooked Cup.
BBC announces new series from Death in Paradise writer with 'twists and turns'
(Image: (Image: BBC) )
"In a school where every teacher is a crook and traitors lurk around every corner, no-one is entirely who they seem to be as the gang uncover the dark secrets that link Penelope's missing mother with Gabriel's own mysterious past and confront a terrifying enemy - The Nameless.
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"A coming-of-age drama full of exciting twists and turns, Crookhaven is about finding your place in the world, learning who you can trust and the very nature of right and wrong."
Filming for Crookhaven will begin in May in Northern Ireland, with its debut expected to be next year.
Crookhaven is expected to air in 2026

Speaking about the upcoming series, author J.J. Arcanjo had nothing but excitement.
He said: 'I have always aimed to excite and inspire the young readers who pick up my books, but also the parents and grandparents who journey with them to my worlds and the TV series aligns perfectly with that.
"Together with BBC Children's and Education we have created a fun family show filled with humour, heart and plenty of clever twists. I cannot wait for Gabriel Avery and his crew of kind-hearted crooks to be brought to life and introduced to TV audiences around the world.'

The author shared the news on social media this week, admitting he's waited over two years to share the news with his followers.
It wasn't long before people commented on the TV adaptation news, with many thrilled for him.
The author took to Twitter to share the news with his followers

One person commented: "Amazing! Congratulations." Someone else wrote: "Amazing news!!!! Wow, the casting is going to be tricky to get just right, though, because your characters live and breathe on the page."
Another fan tweeted: "Congratulations [sic] wonderful news and what a series it'll be." With another adding: "Cannot wait!! This is wonderful news."
It's not yet known who will be appearing in the BBC show, although the author revealed the casting has been done with another announcement on the horizon.
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Crookhaven is expected to air next year

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