The Romantic Novelists' Association (RNA) is the professional body representing authors of romantic fiction in the United Kingdom. It was founded in 1960 by Denise Robins (first president), Barbara Cartland (first vice-president), Vivian Stuart (first elected chairman), and other authors including Elizabeth Goudge, Netta Muskett, Catherine Cookson, Rosamunde Pilcher and Lucilla Andrews.

The RNA has a membership approaching 1000, composed of authors and publishing professionals. It promotes and celebrates romantic fiction across all sub-genres. It holds events, including an annual conference and workshops/seminars on aspects of writing craft and the publishing industry. The organisation has regional chapters, which meet regularly to discuss issues of concern to writers of romantic fiction. The RNA runs the New Writers' Scheme, under which unpublished authors receive an appraisal of their work from an experienced member of the Association. Netta Muskett was co-founder and vice-president of the association[1] and the Netta Muskett Award for new writers, now called the RNA New Writers Scheme, was created in her honour.

History

Awards

The RNA recognises excellence in romantic fiction through their annual Romantic Novel of the Year Awards. The Romantic Novel of the Year Awards cover several categories, including fantasy, contemporary and saga, and are judged by readers. Once a year, the RNA also awards a debut authors' prize, sponsored by Dr. David Hessayon. The RNA also holds annual industry awards, recognising individuals and or companies who have promoted the genre of romantic fiction.[2]

Staff

Board of Directors

Since 2021, the chair of the board has been Jean Fullerton.[1][3]

Presidents

Vice-Presidents

Former Vice-Presidents
Honorary Vice-Presidents
Associate Vice-Presidents

Committee

Committee Chair

Honor Life members

  • Sarah Broadhurst
  • Edwin Buckhalter
  • David G. Hessayon (Dr. D.G. Hessayon)
  • Caroline Sheldon
  • June Sylvia Thimblethorpe (Sylvia Thorpe)

References

  1. 1 2 Past RNA Officers
  2. ↑ "Wade, Diss Publishing Bookshop and Boldwood Books triumph at RNA's Industry Awards". The Bookseller. Retrieved 13 December 2023.
  3. ↑ RNA Officers
  4. 1 2 Bookworm on the Net online at bookwormonthenet.blogspot.com (accessed 4 April 2008)
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