Congratulations to Lee Child and Rachel Joyce who both triumphed at the Specsavers National Book Awards last night! We are so thrilled for Lee and Rachel’s success, as were all who attended the hugely anticipated star-studded literary evening held at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in London.

Picking up the award for ‘Crime & Thriller of the Year’ with A Wanted Man, Lee Child stormed to victory, beating Anthony Horowitz, Susan Hill, Denise Mina, Peter James and Sophie Hannah to the trophy. Winning this award for the very first time, an overjoyed Lee thanked the hardworking team at Transworld before brandishing his glasses and thanking Specsavers too, “without whom (he) couldn’t write, literally.” Lee went on to warmly congratulate Ian Rankin on winning a special Outstanding Achievement Award for his contribution to literature. On accepting the award, Ian Rankin said, “I’m only 52, give me a break, I do feel my best work may be ahead of me.”

Lee Child wins Crime & Thriller of the Year

Rachel Joyce scooped the big win for ‘New Writer of the Year’ with her brilliant debut The Unlikely Pilgramage of Harold Fry. Rachel’s triumph is a truly outstanding end to what has undoubtedly been a remarkable journey for her this year, and Harold too of course; having touched the hearts of all who have immersed themselves in her wonderful story. Rachel graciously thanked all of the booksellers who have supported her along the way, “I just think without the booksellers people like me wouldn’t get a look in.”

A full list of the winners announced at the Specsavers National Book Awards can be found via their website here.

The lovely Lee Child and Rachel Joyce