Mary Nichols, Author of Historical Fiction

I am thrilled to have my novel, THE KIRILOV STAR, published by Allison and Busby, shortlisted for the Historical category of the Romantic Novelists Association’s annual RoNA (Romantic Novel of the Year) Award. The winners of each of category will be announced at a special event in London on 26th February by Judy Finnigan and Richard Madeley.

I have been fascinated by Russian history ever since I read the Russian classics at school (in English I hasten to add), especially the assassination of Tsar Nicholas and his family and the widespread belief that Grand Duchess Anastasia had survived, which has since been disproved. The Kirilov Star is a book I have wanted to write for a long time, but hesitated doing. Its synopsis lay in a drawer for years while I concentrated on other things. But then I decided if I didn't go ahead and write it, I never would. I am glad I did.

Besides, Historical Romance, the other RoNA categories are: Contemporary Romance; Epic Romance; Romantic Comedy and Young Adult. The winner of each category will go forward for the overall Romantic Novel of the Year award which will be announced in May.

There is also a separate award called the RoNA Rose for shorter fiction, known as category/series romance. This award will also be announced on 26th February. I have twice been shortlisted for this.

The Romantic Novelists’ Association was founded in 1960 to support and encourage writers of romantic fiction and to promote the genre. It has been steadily gaining prestige among writers, agents, publishers and other publishing professionals and the awards are highly prized. It also actively promotes new writers with its New Writers Scheme and many have been published as a result of joining that. I have been a member since its very early days. 

 You can see all the short listed books on the RNA’s website: www.rna-uk.org