Two Experimental Novels Named Joint Winners of Queen Mary Small Press Fiction Prize
In a rare and celebratory decision, two experimental novels have been jointly awarded the Queen Mary small press fiction prize, previously known as the Republic of Consciousness prize. The winners, announced at a ceremony held at Queen Mary University in London on Wednesday evening, are Figures Crossing the Field Towards the Group by Rebecca Gransden, published by Tangerine Press, and Ghost Driver by Nell Osborne, published by Moist Books.
Judges Celebrate Dual Victory in Literary Competition
Prize founder Neil Griffiths emphasised the non-competitive spirit of the award, stating, "Sometimes it's clear the judges can't choose between two books, and literary prizes aren't races. When two cross the line together, we don't use technology to measure in hundredths of a second – they both win." This joint recognition highlights the exceptional quality and distinctiveness of both works, which stood out in a field of innovative small press publications.
Insights into the Winning Novels
Rebecca Gransden's novella, Figures Crossing the Field Towards the Group, is described by judge Susanna Crossman as a "mesmerising dystopian novel" that takes readers on a seismic journey through a post-apocalyptic landscape. The narrative follows a young woman navigating a society in ruins, where decaying bodies and geological upheavals create a haunting backdrop for exploration and survival.
Meanwhile, Nell Osborne's Ghost Driver delves into the life of a woman named Malory, blending elements of horror and everyday reality. Judge Stu Hennigan praised the book as a "shape-shifting gem powered by an effortlessly hip voice that crackles with restless energy." The story transforms the familiar into the unfamiliar as Malory confronts office politics, body dysmorphia, intoxicated nights, relationships, and an unsettling giant fly.
Prizes and Recognition for Authors and Publishers
As joint winners, Gransden and Osborne each receive a five-day writing retreat, providing valuable time and space for creative development. The prize also supports the broader small press community: all longlisted presses are awarded £500, and at the shortlist stage, each title receives an additional £1,000, with 70% allocated to the publisher and 30% to the author.
The shortlist featured other notable works, including Darryl by Jackie Ess from Divided Publishing, The First Jasmines by Saima Begum from Hajar Press, and Spit by David Brennan from époque press, showcasing the diversity and talent within the small press sector.
Celebrating a Decade of Literary Excellence
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the prize, which has a storied history of recognising groundbreaking fiction. Previous winners include Counternarratives by John Keene from Fitzcarraldo Editions and Attrib. and other stories by Eley Williams from Influx Press. Last year's winner was There's a Monster Behind the Door by Gaëlle Bélem, translated from French and published by Bullaun Press.
The judging panel for this year's award comprised writers Susanna Crossman, Stu Hennigan, and Marina Benjamin, who collectively brought their expertise to evaluate the submissions. Their decision to honour two novels reflects the prize's commitment to celebrating literary innovation and supporting emerging voices in fiction.
