Manchester based writer Kuchenga Shenjé has been shortlisted for the Inaugural McDermid Debut Award for her gripping historical crime novel The Library Thief which explores identity and belonging as book binder’s daughter Florence uncovers the dark mystery at the heart of a gothic mansion.
Named after world famous crime writer, Val McDermid, the Award showcases six new voices writing across a broad range of subgenres from thrillers to cosy crime, locked room mysteries and historical crime. Also shortlisted are former Master Chef contestant and chef Orlando Murrin, Marie Tierney from the Midlands,Scottish writers Suzy Aspley and Daniel Aubreyand TV comedy writer Suk Pannu.
Also announced the Shortlist for the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year 2024, the UK and Ireland’s most prestigious crime fiction award.
The Winners of both Awards will be announced at the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival in Harrogate on 18 July.
