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2026 Walter Scott Prize Unveils Five-Book Shortlist

4/16/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The 2026 Walter Scott Prize for Historical Fiction announced a five-book shortlist, with the winner receiving £25,000.
The five contenders are British authors: 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.
The winner will be announced on June 12 at the Borders Book Festival in Melrose.

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Story summary

The 2026 Walter Scott Prize for Historical Fiction announced a five-book shortlist, with the winner receiving £25,000.
The five contenders are British authors: 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.
The winner will be announced on June 12 at the Borders Book Festival in Melrose.