The First Page Challenge – a writing contest for novelists (now open to submissions)
The First Page Challenge is a writing contest for novelists. Hook us in a single double-spaced page for a chance to win a growing prize pool, plus publication on the Chopping Blog.
Our judge, Michelle Barker, will be asking herself one question:
how likely am I to turn this page and keep reading?
Each entry contributes to the prize, so once we hit 40 entries, the prize pool starts to spill over... and trickle down! Here's how this will work:
Up to 40 entries: $200 for 1st prize
At 60 entries: $200 for 1st prize, $100 for 2nd prize
At 70 entries: $200 for 1st, $100 for 2nd, $50 for 3rd
Above 70: 1st place continues to increase – no limit!
At 60 entries: $200 for 1st prize, $100 for 2nd prize
At 70 entries: $200 for 1st, $100 for 2nd, $50 for 3rd
Above 70: 1st place continues to increase – no limit!
Finalists in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place also win publication on the Chopping Blog.
Submission deadline: September 30, 2020.
Check out the 2019 winner here.
A note on sincerity: some so-called editing websites host writing contests as a ruse to then up-sell contestants into paying to have their submissions edited. A shifty trick indeed! We attest that this is a legitimate annual writing contest, and if winning entries ever need some editing, we will gladly assist without charge.
About the Darling Axe
Our editors are industry professionals and award-winning writers. We offer narrative development, editing, and coaching for every stage of your manuscript's journey to publication.
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