The new series follows the adaptation of her second novel, Normal People, which airs this spring.

The series will be produced by Element Pictures, directed by Lenny Abrahamson and Hettie McDonald, with several episodes written by Alice Birch.

Conversations With Friends follows two college students who make an unexpected and life changing connection with a married couple.

Frances is 21 years old, emotionally detached and quietly observant, whereas her best friend – and ex-girlfriend – Bobbi is a confident attention seeker with a sharp tongue.

While performing spoken word in Dublin, they meet an enigmatic older journalist called Melissa and get drawn into her inner circle, which includes her handsome actor husband Nick.

Frances and Nick start to form an undeniable bond, forcing Frances to face up to some long-held vulnerabilities.

Sally Rooney said she was pleased to be working with Element Pictures, Lenny Abrahamson and the BBC again, she said: “I'm confident we're going to find fresh and interesting ways of dramatising the novel's dynamics, and I'm excited to watch the process take shape‎.”

“I love Conversations With Friends, its depth, humour and freshness, and it’s an honour to be involved in bringing it to the screen,” commented Lenny Abrahamson.

He continued: “I’m particularly happy that my connection to Sally and her work is set to continue. Making Normal People has been a singular pleasure and I’m excited to be working with the same brilliant team again on Conversations With Friends.”

Ed Guiney, co-founder of Element Pictures, said: “The team at Element have nurtured a burning ambition to bring Conversations With Friends to the screen ever since we first read it.

“We could not be more excited to be working once again with Sally, Lenny, Alice and our friends at the BBC on the adaptation of this utterly exceptional and enthralling novel.”

Filming dates and casting will be announced at a later date.