Shetland

Ann Cleeves provides a non-fiction guide to the Shetland archipelago, the setting for her Jimmy Perez novels. She details the specific geography of the North Atlantic islands, from the towering cliffs of Hermaness to the archaeological remains at Jarlshof. The text outlines the historical Norse influence on local dialects and the annual traditions of the Up Helly Aa fire festivals. She provides context for the diverse wildlife, including migrations of puffins and the presence of orcas, while describing the isolated lifestyles of crofters and the impact of the North Sea oil industry.

This book serves readers interested in the intersection of British history and geography, as well as fans of the Shetland television series seeking the real-world locations behind the fiction. It functions as a cultural almanac for those studying remote island communities and maritime heritage. Readers finish the book with a factual understanding of the archipelago’s seasonal landscape and its distinct Scandinavian heritage, moving beyond the fictional murders to the authentic environment of the islands.