We are delighted to share the 16 books that make up the 2026 Women’s Prize for Fiction longlist. An expansive list that showcases the profound force, resonance and scale of fiction writing, the 16 titles – including nine from independent publishers and seven debuts – are a true treasure trove for readers.

From tackling turbulent global issues to examining the intensely intimate, the longlist explores the consequences of displacement and amplifies voices often forgotten, casts a brutal yet tender lens on familial relationships and shatters the expectations of mother-child relationships, and reflects on today’s ever increasing crisis of identity and search for human connection.

“Across a longlist that is international in both scope and setting, these sixteen books masterfully demonstrate the power of fiction to examine the messy business of being human. From climate change to artificial intelligence, they navigate the issues of our time with urgency and purpose, they immerse us in environments and experiences that are sometimes like our own, but more often are radically different, and they explore identities and perspectives that are often ignored or forgotten, amidst those inherently universal and recognisable. Spotlighting both emerging novelists and small, independent publishers, my fellow judges and I are proud to share a list that so wonderfully reflects the thriving creativity of contemporary women authors, as well as the crucial work of the Women’s Prize Trust in bringing unheard voices to the fore. It is truly a treasure trove for readers, and we offer our heartfelt congratulations to all the nominated writers.”

Julia Gillard, Chair of Judges and former Prime Minister of Australia

“Across three decades, the Women’s Prize for Fiction has transformed the literary landscape – elevating women’s writing, empowering new voices, and bringing together a global community of readers. At the Women’s Prize Trust, the charity behind the Prize, our mission remains unchanged: to help build a future where every woman’s story has a place, and where these rich and vital narratives are put into the hands of more readers. We are immensely proud of this year’s longlist, and I offer our congratulations to these 16 exceptional novelists, and gratitude to the judges.”

Claire Shanahan, Executive Director of the Women’s Prize Trust

The full list in alphabetical order by author surname is:

This year’s Chair of Judges, Julia Gillard, former Prime Minister of Australia, is joined by poet, novelist and essayist, Mona Arshi, author, presenter, poet and speaker, Salma El-Wardany, writer, podcaster, actor and comedian, Cariad Lloyd, and author, broadcaster and DJ, Annie Macmanus. Further information about the judging panel can be found here

The judges will now narrow down the longlist to a shortlist of six, which will be announced on 22 April 2026. The winner of the 2026 Women’s Prize for Fiction will be revealed on Thursday 11 June 2026 at the Women’s Prize Trust’s summer party in Bedford Square Gardens, London (along with the winner of its sister prize, the 2026 Women’s Prize for Non-Fiction).

The winner of the 2026 Women’s Prize for Fiction, sponsored by Audible and Baileys, will receive £30,000, anonymously endowed, along with a statuette known as the ‘Bessie’, created and donated by the late artist Grizel Niven.