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Jenni Ramone, Associate Professor of Postcolonial and Global Literatures, Nottingham Trent University

Women’s prize for fiction: tales of power, agency, ageing and connection – six experts review the shortlist

Mercy Priscilla Louisa Susan Choi Daisy Buchanan Jordan Baker Marcia Hutchinson Virginia Evans Wonderboy

The Women’s prize for fiction has been awarded to a female author of any nationality for the best novel written in English since 1996. In its 30th year, it is now one of the most influential literary awards in the world.

The 2026 shortlist explores themes of power, agency, ageing and connection. The list reflects the prize’s drive to support new and emerging female talent with four debuts.

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