The longlist, Women’s Prize for Fiction, 2023, has finally been revealed. A mix of debut and acclaimed writers, NoViolet Bulayawo–twice shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize–spots the longlist alongside other phenomenal writers with thrilling titles. The longlist of 16 is celebrated as full of “boundless imagination” and “creative ambition”.  The longlist is as follows:

Black Butterflies by Priscilla Morris

Children of Paradise by Camilla Grudova

Cursed Bread by Sophie Mackintosh

Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver

Fire Rush by Jacqueline Crooks

Glory by NoViolet Bulawayo

Homesick by Jennifer Croft

I’m a Fan by Sheena Patel

Memphis by Tara M. Stringfellow

Pod by Laline Paull

Stone Blind by Natalie Haynes

The Bandit Queens by Parini Shroff

The Dog of the North by Elizabeth McKenzie

The Marriage Portrait by Maggie O’Farrell

Trespasses by Louise Kennedy

Wandering Souls by Cecile Pin

Chair of judges Louise Minchin remarks: “Every one of these 16 books is excellent and original in its own individual way; they all offer fresh perspectives on history and humanity, exploring hard truths with empathy, sensitivity, directness, and sometimes infectious humour. There is something here for all readers! It has truly been a life-enhancing experience to judge the Women’s Prize for Fiction longlist this year, and we are looking forward to celebrating these voices that need to be heard.” Joined by novelist Rachel Joyce; journalist, podcaster and writer Bella Mackie; novelist and short story writer Irenosen Okojie; and Tulip Siddiq, Member of Parliament, together, they will shrink the list to a shortlist of six, set to be announced April 26th, 2023. The winner will be announced on 14th June.

The Women’s Prize for Fiction, now in its twenty-eighth year, is committed to highlighting and celebrating the best of original, contemporary fiction by women. 

Congratulations to everyone on the list!