Local author shortlisted
Local author, Adrienne Vaughan’s latest novel ‘Mystery of the Midnight Madonna’, has just been nominated for an award by the prestigious Historical Novel Society.
The novel was entered in the society’s ‘First Chapter’ competition. I begins at the outbreak of WWII and is set in Devon, London and Paris. It features a feisty secret service agent, who – following a misdemeanour − is seconded to Devon to stay with her aunt – a writer of hugely successful detective stories. Desperate to get back and do her bit for the war effort, her plans are thwarted, when a local art dealer is murdered and her boss insists she remains to investigate.
“I am absolutely delighted and honoured to have been shortlisted for this highly prized award,” Adrienne said. “Particularly as the Historical Novel Society reports this has been a record year for entries, with over 650 books, entered from 22 countries.
“This nomination has ignited an exciting new phase in my author career, for although I have written eight books, this is my first historical novel, giving me the confidence to continue to develop my work in this area.”
Adrienne’s novel has been shortlisted in the Crime and Mystery category; the winners will be announced in May 2026.
