The Miniaturist, the debut novel by Forest Hill’s Jessie Burton, has been voted the best book of the year in a readers' poll.

Actress-turned-writer Jessie wrote the book, a thriller set in 17th-century Amsterdam, while appearing on stage - including a stint at London's National Theatre.

It was named the Specsavers Book of the Year, beating titles including Us by David Nicholls and Nathan Filer's The Shock Of The Fall.

Jessie said: "I am indebted forever to the voting public for this incredible honour. It is no exaggeration to say this has been a life-transforming year for me, and this award is a very big cherry on the cake.

"There are always stories to write, and people who want to read them, and as the year closes, I find this very heartening news indeed.

“This wonderful acknowledgement will propel me into 2015, and I am deeply thankful to everyone who took the time to vote."

Previous winners include EL James's Fifty Shades Of Grey and Caitlin Moran's How To Be A Woman.

Earlier this year Jessie Burton spoke to News Shopper revealing her love for Forest Hill and tips for budding writers