Bernice Barry Wins ARA Historical Novel Prize
The Australian author secured the $100,000 top award for her 17th-century novel The Names of a Hare.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Historical
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Author Bernice Barry has been awarded the $100,000 ARA Historical Novel Prize for her book, The Names of a Hare. The novel, which explores themes of witchcraft in 17th-century Cornwall, was selected by the Historical Novel Society Australasia.
Why it matters
This annual award recognises excellence in historical fiction, which must be set at least 50 years in the past. The win highlights the significant contributions of Australian authors to the global literary landscape.
The ARA Historical Novel Prize carries a $100,000 cash award, while the category for younger readers offers $30,000. Additionally, the Readers' Choice Award provides a $5,000 prize for the winning author.
The players
Bernice Barry
She is an author currently based in Margaret River who moved to Australia 25 years ago.
Meg Caddy
She is the author who won the $30,000 award for younger readers for her novel A Flash in the Dust.
Wayne Marshall
He is the author who received the $5,000 Readers' Choice Award for his novel Henry Goes Bush.
Historical Novel Society Australasia
This organisation promotes the writing and reading of historical fiction and oversees the annual awards programme.
The details
The Names of a Hare follows an unnamed woman accused of witchcraft who flees her home after her secret is revealed. Bernice Barry, who currently resides in Margaret River, spent over 30 years writing the book following her move to Australia 25 years ago.
Timeline
17th century: Setting of the novel The Names of a Hare.
1892: Setting of the novel Henry Goes Bush.
25 years ago: Bernice Barry moved to Australia.
15 October 2026: Announcement of the ARA Historical Novel Prize winners.
Culture Shift
This award aligns with the mission of the Historical Novel Society Australasia to uphold standards for works set more than 50 years in the past. It underscores a growing appreciation for literature that meticulously reconstructs specific historical periods for contemporary readers.
Readers can seek out The Names of a Hare to experience a work recognised for its historical depth and narrative structure. The recognition of these books often influences local library acquisitions and reading list recommendations across the country.
The takeaway
Supporting historical fiction allows readers to engage with the past through well-researched, imaginative storytelling. Readers looking to expand their personal libraries can follow these award winners to find acclaimed titles set in various historical eras.
Further reading
For more on the literary scene, explore Australia Historical on Wisevoter.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Australian Broadcasting Corporation.
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