The prize for stories that feature a substantial thriller, suspense, mystery or crime story, alongside or fully entwined with a romantic story was awarded to Louise for her novel The House By Sea.

Published by Bloodwood books in February 2020 the book tells the story of Edie who is relieved when her mother-in-law, Anna DeLuca, dies. Edie blames Anna for the accident that destroyed her family. So, when lured by Anna’s will to Sicily and the long-abandoned Villa della Madonna del Mare, Edie soon finds herself caught up in the mysterious secrets of the villa’s past. Just who are the girls beside Anna in her childhood photos, and why has one of them been scratched out? Why does someone, or something, want the past left untouched? Described as a captivating, chilling and unforgettable tale of betrayal, jealousy and the mysteries hidden in every family history, The House By Sea has sold over 130,000 copies and is an Amazon no 1 bestseller. ‎

The RNA’s awards are the only national literary prizes that recognise excellence in the genre of romantic fiction. This year’s shortlist was announced on the 1st February and the awards were presented by actor and presenter Larry Lamb in a digital event on Monday 8th March.