Irish author Marian Keyes has described watching her beloved Walsh Sisters novels transformed into a BBC television series as an entirely "surreal" experience.
The celebrated writer, whose books have sold millions worldwide, spoke of feeling deeply honoured to witness characters she created decades ago finally appearing on screen.
"These things lived in my head for so long, and now to see actual people saying some of the words I wrote," Ms Keyes explained in an interview with the BBC. "I just feel really happy about it."
The author emphasised that the entire adaptation process had been overwhelmingly positive, stating: "Everything about this has been joyous.
Marian Keyes has described watching her novels transformed into a BBC television series as a 'surreal' experience
|BBC
"There hasn't been a single thing that has made me disappointed in any way. All of it is just hugely uplifting and really thrilling."
The drama launched on BBC iPlayer on Thursday, bringing to life the story of five Dublin-born sisters as they navigate the complexities of life in their twenties and thirties.
Anna, Rachel, Maggie, Claire and Helen Walsh form the heart of the series, which draws inspiration from five of MsKeyes' bestselling novels about the fictional family.
The BBC has described the programme as following a "chaotic, dysfunctional but deeply loveable" household, complete with a devout mother and bewildered father.
The drama launched on BBC iPlayer on Thursday
|BBC
Central themes include heartbreak, grief, addiction and the challenges of parenthood, all bound together by the sisters' shared history and mutual affection.
According to the broadcaster, the siblings remain united through their DNA, family bonds and a collective passion for power ballads, despite carrying inherited resentments and unhealed wounds from their past.
Ms Keyes revealed her aspirations for viewers watching the series, expressing hope that audiences would find themselves entertained, engaged and ultimately uplifted by what she considers a feel-good programme with bittersweet moments.
The author particularly highlighted the storyline involving Rachel, one of the five sisters, who grapples with addiction throughout the narrative.
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Marian Keyes said nothing about the BBC adaptation has 'disappointed' her
|BBC
"I hope that people might relate to Rachel's story and know that there is no shame in what Rachel is going through," Keyes said. "If it pertains to the lives of people watching, I really hope that they'll know that help is available."
She added that her greatest wish was simply for viewers to connect with the characters, saying: "I'd like people to be moved to laugh and to feel like the Walsh Sisters are real."
The ensemble cast bringing the Walsh family to life features several acclaimed performers, with Louisa Harland taking on the role of Anna, Caroline Menton portraying Rachel, and Máiréad Tyers playing Helen.
Danielle Galligan and Stefanie Preissner complete the sisterly quintet as Claire and Maggie respectively, whilst Carrie Crowley and Aidan Quinn appear as the parents.
| BBC
Devoted readers of Ms Keyes' work have waited years for the adaptation, with many taking to social media to express their enthusiasm following the BBC's announcement.
"I've been waiting for this for sooo many years!" one fan exclaimed online, whilst another declared: "I've read all the books, cannot wait!"
Keyes herself had previously shared her anticipation on Instagram, telling followers she was "SO PROUD and SO EXCITED" about the production.