A LIVERPOOL author and Daily Post columnist is in the running for an award from the Romantic Novelists’ Association (RNA).

Jane Costello’s novel, The Nearly-Weds, set in Liverpool and Boston, is one of four books shortlisted for the Pure Passion Awards.

The nomination comes as the awards celebrate their 50th anniversary. The winner is chosen by a panel of writers and readers.

Jane, 36, from the Calderstone Park area of the city, said: “I’m hugely excited about the RNA awards. Every big-name author in my genre of fiction is a member of the association and the event itself is very well respected within the publishing industry.

“That said, given that I’m up against such serious competition, I’m practising my dignified loser’s face already.”

Jane hit the best-seller lists with her debut novel Bridesmaids in 2008.

RNAŠchair and fellow novelist Katie Fforde said: “In our 50th year, we are celebrating with more awards. We are proud to showcase contemporary women’s fiction, chick lit, sagas, and historical fiction.Š

“Some are written by newcomers and some by more established authors. What links them all is that they have been selected by discerning readers to be loved by everyone.”

The other shortlisted authors are Jill Mansell, Jenny Colgan and Lucy-Anne Holmes. The winner will be announced at a ceremony in London on March 16.