The Short List for the Joan Hessayon Award For New Writers

The Romantic Novelists' Association announced the shortlist today for the Joan Hessayon Award.

Kate Jackson SECOND CHANCE (DC Thompson)

Molly Hopkins IT HAPPENED IN PARIS (Little, Brown)

Sally Clements CATCH ME A CATCH (Wild Rose Press)

Charlotte Betts THE APOTHECARY'S DAUGHTER (Piatkus)

Paula Williams A PLACE OF HEALING (My Weekly Pocket Novel)

The winner of the award will be announced at One Birdcage Walk, London on Wednesday 18th May 2011

The New Writers' Scheme, which has been run by the RNA since 1962, is unique among professional writing associations. It aims to encourage fresh talent in the writing of romantic novels that reflect all aspects of love and life, contemporary or historical. Manuscripts submitted by unpublished writers are read by an experienced writer or editor who provides valuable feedback. Any manuscript that is subsequently published as a debut novel is eligible for the award. The eligible books are judged by a panel of experienced RNA members.

'I would advise any aspiring writer to join the scheme,' Lucy King, last year's winner declared. 'I found the depth and scope of the feedback to be invaluable. The encouraging comments I received really spurred me on.'

The award is generously sponsored by Dr David Hessayon, the gardening expert, in honour of his late wife Joan, who was a longstanding member of the RNA and a great supporter of the New Writers' Scheme.