The prize is given annually and this year, the focus is on the best adventure novels published between 1st May 2018 and 30th April 2019, with entries open to writers of any nationality, writing in English.
Submissions were received by authors from across the world including the USA, Australia, Nigeria, South Africa, Canada, New Zealand and many more.
The Wilbur Niso Smith Foundation worked with experienced library professionals to select the titles for the longlist.
From the longlist, a number of books will now be selected for the shortlist and, under guidance from an expert judging panel, the £15,000 first prize for Best Published Novel will be awarded at a ceremony on the 12th September 2019, at London's Stationers' Hall.
We are so thrilled for JD, congratulations!