I’m delighted to share the news that my debut novel The String Games has been shortlisted in another literary competition. This one is very close to my heart. As a resident of Dorchester I’m proud to be one of the final three in a competition founded by the Dorchester Literary Festival and sponsored by Hall & Woodhouse.
The aim of the competition is to continue Dorset’s literary tradition by investing in its homegrown talent. A judging panel, including professional writers and a leading literary agent compile the shortlist so this is a real chance to gain wider recognition for my debut novel. The awards ceremony, hosted by a leading writer will be held on 5 October 2020 (Covid-19 permitting).
I attended the previous two ceremonies, the inaugural competition was in 2018 and hosted by Kate Adie when Philip Browne won with his remarkable non-fiction book The Unfortunate Captain Peirce and the Wreck of the Halsewell about a shipwreck off the Dorset coast in 1786.
Philip Browne receives his prize from Kate Adie.
Last year, my good friend Maria Donovan was on the shortlist and came runner-up with her moving story about loss and grief from a young boy’s perspective in The Chicken Soup Murder, while Emma Timpany took the prize with Travelling in the Dark.
Shortlistees from 2019 with Emma on the left, Maria on the right and centre is Minette Walters
I look forward to meeting the other shortlisted writers but the in meantime, I celebrate all those who were on the longlist:
Although my name is on the cover of The String Games, there are many Dorset people who helped this novel reach its audience. Thank you to all those readers and writers who gave feedback and others who supported with proof reading and editing. Without you, my story may never have found a home with Victorina Press or gained recognition in writing competitions such as this.
the writer is a lonely hunter 
Congratulations, Gail, on making the short list, but it’s a much deserved honor. “String Games” is a wonderfully written book and I sincerely hope it gets the recognition it deserves!
Thanks, Jim! Always grateful for your support.
Congratulations, Gail! I’m so pleased for you, and really hope you win!
I hoped your new novel would be in the final three, I so enjoyed reading Secret of the Song. I will get my hands on a copy of Notes from the Lost.
That’s just brilliant Gail. 🥰