The Screw Turn Flash Fiction Competition

The Screw Turn Flash Fiction Competition is biannual flash fiction contest run by The Ghost Story (TGS), centered on supernatural, paranormal, or magic-realist themes.

Twice each year TGS awards $1,000 and publication to the first-place winner. In addition, two honorable mention winners will receive $200 each, as well as publication. The next deadline is January 31 2026. Winners and honorable mentions to be announced and published on February 14, 2026.

Straight ghost stories are fine, but the organizer is looking for writing that does more than just tick boxes, such as fresh takes on the uncanny, well-crafted prose, and something that feels more than cliché. Stories must be unpublished and not under consideration elsewhere.

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.

Newsletter
Our newsletter delivers a carefully curated roundup of the newest writing contests and submission calls from around the world—straight to your inbox. Join our growing community of writers who stay informed and ahead of deadlines → Subscribe on Substack (free).