The novel Smrtholka (Deathmaiden) by Lucie Faulerová is the Czech winner of the 2021 European Union Prize for Literature.  The jury appreciated „the brilliantly written and non-linear narrative of the novel, which suggests a musical composition, the sensitive use of dark humour amid the heroine’s painful experiences and the courage of the young writer in presenting a demanding text with sombre and sometimes even morbid motifs.“

The European Union Prize for Literature recognises emerging fiction writers from the European Union and beyond. Engaging the 41 countries participating in the Creative Europe programme of the European Union, the Prize celebrates outstanding new literary talents.