A TELEVISION crime drama based on a Sussex author’s best-selling thriller has received rave reviews.

ITV’s Grace – based on crime novelist Peter James' book Dead Simple – hit our screens with a two-hour special last night to the delight of fans across the country.

Peter Kyle, MP for Hove and Portslade, said: “Totally loved Grace ITV tonight. Brilliant adaptation - the coffin bit made me as anxious and uncomfortable as when I read the book.

READ MORE: Meet the cast of Grace - ITV's new crime drama filmed in Brighton

“Perfect casting and that includes Hove’s beautiful locations which starred throughout.

“Peter James and ITV have done us proud.”

John Simm appears alongside the likes of Richie Campbell as Grace’s police partner detective superintendent Glenn Branson and Rakie Ayola as his superior, assistant chief constable Alison Vosper.

Together, the officers must investigate the mysterious disappearance of a successful property developer who went missing during his stag do, days before his wedding.

Plush seafront locations featured last night’s 120-minute feature as well as shots from Newhaven and talk of Shoreham Port.

ITV's Grace hit out screens last night

 

The show was filmed in Brighton and Hove last year with city landmarks – including both piers and Hove’s beach huts – playing a starring role in the adaption.

The Argus’s famous A1 boards also featured.

Viewers took to Twitter to give their verdict on the show.

One said: “Really enjoyed Grace tonight. It was a great adaptation of Dead Simple by Peter James.

READ MORE: The filming locations for John Simm drama Grace

“Can't wait for the next one. Fab performances all round, especially John Simm and Brighton looked stunning.”

Another said ”Rewatching Grace ITV this morning. Wow!

“The twists, suspense and turns, in Dead Simple. Outstanding!

“John Simm the Scarlet Pimpernel of TV drama, is there a role he can't master? Doubt it.

“ Richie Campbell once again unsubtly amazing! Rakie Ayola utterly magnificent!.”

The second instalment is due to follow later this year, with a release date to be confirmed