A SCOTTISH writer's debut novel was won a a major UK literary prize.
Kirstin Innes’s first novel Fishnet has scooped the Guardian's 'Not the Booker' Prize for 2015.
The book, about a woman's search for her missing sister, delves into the twilight world of sex workers in Glasgow and came top of the Guardian's list following a public vote.
Kirstin said: "I can't quite believe this has happened. Fishnet was up against some utterly brilliant novels, so it's mind-blowing to have won both stages of the competition.
"I hope this prize can bring a little bit more attention to some of the issues I wanted to address with the book. Huge thanks to the judging panel and to the people who participated in the public vote."
Chairman of the Judges, Sam Jordinson, said: "Fishnet is a fine novel. It possibly wasn’t the most polished and complete literary work on the list, but there is some excellent writing in there, as well as real emotional and political urgency.
"It’s gripping, it’s humane and it’s the kind of novel that can actually make you investigate your own prejudices and opinions. I know it challenged a few of my ideas about prostitution and the vulnerability, or otherwise, of sex workers."
While not writing novels, Kirstin is a freelance writer and journalist who also works in public relations for arts groups.
She previously won the Allen Wright Award for Excellence in Arts Journalism in 2007 & 2011, and writes for the Scotsman, Scotland on Sunday, the Herald, the List and the Independent.
Fishnet is published by Glasgow-based Freight Books
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