Sally Smith wins Best Crime Novel of the Year at the British Book Awards (Nibbies) 2026
12 May 2026
Hats off to Sally Smith who last night claimed the Nibbies Best Crime Novel of the Year Award for her debut novel A CASE OF MICE AND MURDER (publisher: Bloomsbury Raven; agent: Anne-Marie Doulton), the first in an immersive murder mystery series set in the Edwardian era, featuring barrister and reluctant sleuth Gabriel Ward. Sally’s novel triumphed over the latest books from big-hitter authors such as Richard Osman, Dan Brown and Frieda McFadden. The award judges described it as ‘exquisitely written’ and ‘a standout in this category”. Once more, huge congratulations to Sally for her achievements.