The final results are in. Huge congratulations to our winners and to the longlisted and shortlisted writers. Competition was as fierce as ever and we look forward to sharing the six shortlisted stories with you as an anthology later in the year. The longlist can be found here: http://www.historiamag.com/hwa-dd-2021-longlist/
And the winner, highly commended and shortlisted stories are:
Winner
His Mother’s Quilt by Naomi Kelsey
A gothic gem. A woman trapped in bed fights the ghosts that surround her. Tense, delicate writing. Lace woven with steel threads.
Highly Commended
Her Own Kind by Fiona Whyte
A story of sacrifice and loss, told with a gentle touch and vivid characterisations.
The Sister Time Forgot by Rachel Blackmore
A fresh narrative construction and liquid prose bring a Tudor Princess vividly to life.
Also shortlisted (and will be included in the anthology)
Twelve Years to Grow Before Dark by Hazel Turner
A great voice and superb nature writing combine in elegant simplicity
Guard of Honour by Liz Kershaw
Perfect writing and sharply observed characterisations as one man makes a choice.
The Fortune Teller by Helen Cannam
A bright and sprightly story which darkens as it unfurls through a summer’s day.
Many thanks to our final round judges – Janet Angelini, Matt Casbourne, Katherine Clements and Norah Perkins.