Singer Dolly Parton publishes her first novel

A novel co-written by singer Dolly Parton and US bestselling author James Patterson is to be published.

Parton will release an album, her first, titled “Run, Rose, Run,” in March 2022, to coincide with the book.

The 75-year-old country singer said: “I couldn’t be more excited about the release of my very first novel, Run, Rose, Run, featuring the amazing James Patterson.

“I also have a new album that matches the book.

“Completely new songs were written based on the characters and situations in the book.

“I hope you enjoy the book and the songs as much as we enjoyed putting the book together.”

The book was touted as “an extraordinary collaboration between two legendary storytellers.”

Patterson has sold more than 300 million copies of his own novels, including the Alex Cross, Michael Bennett and Women’s Murder Club series.

“Parton” is not his first notable literary collaboration – he has already written two books with former US President Bill Clinton.

“Run, Rose, Run” tells the story of a young woman who moves to Nashville to pursue a career in music.

“The source of her heartbreaking songs is a brutal secret that she has tried to hide by any means possible,” the statement said.

The lyrics of the 12-song album are also included in the novel.

Patterson said: “It is an honour – and a hell of a lot of fun – to work with the inimitable Dolly Parton, whom I have long admired for her music, her storytelling and her enormous generosity.

“The amazing thing about this project is that reading the novel is enriched by listening to the album and vice versa.

“It’s a truly unique experience that I know readers (and listeners) will love.”

“Run, Rose, Run” will be released on March 7, 2022.