Shylashri Shankar and Alanna Skuse longlisted for HWA Awards 2026

BLOOD CASTE by Shylashri Shankar (Canelo) and THE SURGEON, THE MIDWIFE, THE QUACK: How to Stay Alive in Renaissance England by Alanna Skuse (Oneworld Publications) have been longlisted for The Historical Writers’ Association (HWA) awards, for books published during 2025-6. There are three categories, with 12 books listed in each category. Alanna was nominated in the Non-fiction Crown category, while Shylashri was listed in the Debut Crown category.

Of BLOOD CASTE the judges said:

“A fascinating glimpse of 1895 Imperial India, where a series of worrying murders of women take place against the background of a number of plot twists. An ingenious story, blending not only the legend of Jack the Ripper but also religion, gender roles, caste, and race politics in India. A compelling Victorian-set thriller.”

Of THE SURGEON, THE MIDWIFE, THE QUACK the judges said:

“Excellently researched, The Surgeon, The Midwife, The Quack guides the reader through the changing face of medicine with wit and humour. From medieval ideas and the evolution of treatments, set against a changing world, Skuse reveals stories of fascinating characters alongside some gruesome tales, while also providing a readable story through a pivotal period of medical history.”

The HWA Crown Award shortlists will be announced on 14 October, 2026, while the HWA Crown Award winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on 18 November, 2026. For more info, see the HWA website.