Novels Judge’s Report 2023

Judge’s report from Headline Publishing

Winner: The Station of Lost Souls 

Runner-up: Secrets and Love Songs at The Mermaid Hotel 

The Station of Lost Souls

The team was really impressed by this entry and thought that the author produced an absorbing and well-written sample that set a very clear stage for the story that is to come. The author has established strong characterisations in the material; each voice is wonderfully discernible and the author’s compelling and warm writing means the reader is able to connect with the characters authentically and emotionally. We felt the synopsis showed huge potential, tapping into themes of love, grief and belonging and, with perhaps a little more grounding at points, thought this made for an original and imaginative story that we were eager to keep reading. We also love the title! Huge congratulations to the author.

Secrets and Love Songs at The Mermaid Hotel

There is much to admire in this submission and it is a thoroughly deserving runner-up. We found it hugely readable and, in the end, there wasn’t much between this and the winner. We found ourselves immediately drawn in by the author’s characterisations, which seemed considered, believable and satisfyingly complex. It’s clear how much thought and care has gone into the development of the characters’ backstories to ensure there is enough conflict – we were very much invested in Evie’s journey and willing her to succeed and prove her father wrong! We were a little wary to learn of William’s illness in the synopsis and would encourage the author to approach this with sensitivity and nuance to ensure it lands as well as it can on the page. Overall, a very enjoyable read though! Well done.