I must be one of the few people who have never read a Peter James’ crime thriller. 

He’s written 36 novels, selling more than 21 million copies. 

You have probably also watched the ITV drama with Detective Superintendent Roy Grace, played by John Simm as the troubled Brighton copper. I haven’t.

I was therefore a Peter James and Roy Grace newbie when I went along to the Lowry Theatre to watch the play Wish You Were Dead, which sees Katie McGlynn, who plays Roy Grace’s wife Cleo, make her stage debut. 

You’ll know Katie from her appearances in Coronation Street, where she played Sinead Tinker. 

I interviewed Katie, a couple of weeks ago for my Tameside Radio show Break-a-Leg, and she was nervously excited about what was to come.

I bumped into her Corrie co-star Rob Mallard, there to support her, at the interval. I’m sure he was as impressed as me. 

All the actors on stage were top class, the story was gripping from start to end, with Rebecca McKinnis as Madame L’Eveque a stand out for me.

The set was stunning and should be regarded as a star in its own right, so hats off to set designer Michael Holt.

As the story developed the tension grew but the only minor disappointment, for me, was the quite swift, and slightly predictable conclusion. 

I was expecting a twist, which never quite came. 

Overall though, I’d definitely recommend it, and of course if you’re a fan of Peter James and Katie McGlynn you’ll be in your element.

It’s on at the Lowry until Saturday, May 27. 

review by Ian Cheeseman