2026 Walter Scott Prize for Historical Fiction Shortlist Announced
Five authors in the running for historical fiction prize
The Bbc
Image: The Bbc
Five British authors are shortlisted for the £25,000 Walter Scott Prize for Historical Fiction, marking a first in the award's 17-year history. The winner will be revealed at the Borders Book Festival in Melrose on June 12, 2026.
- 01Five authors have been shortlisted for the prestigious Walter Scott Prize.
- 02All shortlisted books are by British authors for the first time.
- 03The prize amount is £25,000.
- 04The winner will be announced at the Borders Book Festival.
- 05The judges praised the shortlisted novels for their unique storytelling.
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The £25,000 Walter Scott Prize for Historical Fiction has unveiled its shortlist for 2026, featuring five novels exclusively written by British authors. The nominated works include The Pretender by Jo Harkin, The Matchbox Girl by Alice Jolly, Benbecula by Graeme Macrae Burnet, Once the Deed is Done by Rachel Seiffert, and Seascraper by Benjamin Wood. This marks a significant milestone as it is the first time in the prize's 17-year history that all shortlisted authors are from the UK. The winner will be announced during the Borders Book Festival in Melrose, Scotland, on June 12, 2026. The judges highlighted that these novels explore personal narratives set against various backdrops, providing fresh perspectives on both historical and contemporary themes. They emphasized the importance of storytelling in these works, suggesting that readers will encounter unforgettable voices.
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The prize highlights the significance of historical fiction in literature and promotes British authors, potentially increasing their visibility and readership.
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