Novel Beginnings

What is Novel Beginnings? Submit the first 5,000 words of your work in progress for a chance to win our $50,000 grand prize or one of our $5,000 shortlisted awards.

Who it’s for: Unrepresented, unpublished fiction writers in any genre. If you’re unagented and have never been traditionally published, we’d love to read your work.

How to enter: Submit 5,000 words from the opening of a novel in progress. The organizer is not looking for a finished book, but for or a compelling voice, a strong sense of story, and an opening that makes the reader want to keep reading.

Who is eligible: Novel Beginnings is open to writers who are early in their publishing journey but deeply committed to their craft.

You’re eligible if:

• You do not currently have a literary agent
• You have not previously published a novel with an established publisher

The Grand Prize

• $50,000 awarded to one winner
• 45-minute editorial consultation with First Ink
• Six months of mentorship and a conditional offer of representation from Aevitas

Shortlisted Prizes

• $5,000 awarded to each of our shortlisted writers
• Written editorial feedback from a Commissioning Editor at First Ink

Timeline

Entries open: 00:01 GMT on February 2nd, 2026

Entries close: 23:59 GMT on March 31st, 2026

Find out more about the event and enter here.

Is this competition legit?YES! – Based on our research this event is legitimate and the organizer is well established. However, as with any event, please remember to do your own research before submitting your work.

FAQ
If you are curious how writing competitions work, or it’s your first time entering one, we recommend reading our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page first.

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