Update: The First Page Challenge

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?

Update: we've just hit 60 entries!

That means the prize pool is up to $200 for 1st and $100 for 2nd. With ten more entries, third place is firmed up at $50. After that, all additional entries contribute to the first place prize. In our last contest, the prize for first place got up to $720. We might be on track for a similar amount since most entries arrive in the final two weeks.

Submission deadline: September 30, 2020.


Check out the 2019 winner here

The First Page Challenge: a writing contest for novelists

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.



Work with a professional fiction editor from the Darling Axe: manuscript development and book editing services


Book a sample edit with a professional fiction editor from the Darling Axe: manuscript development and book editing services



Darling Axe Academy – Query Quest: a self-paced querying course

Related Posts

Story Skeleton—Heart of Darkness
Story Skeleton—Heart of Darkness
Heart of Darkness is the most frequently analyzed work of literature in universities and colleges, probably because Conr
Read More
Story Skeleton—The Godfather
Story Skeleton—The Godfather
Vito Corleone is a godfather of crime, but he is also a godfather of plot.
Read More
Minor Character Questionnaire
Minor Character Questionnaire
Whether they’re allies, enemies, mentors, or catalysts for change, minor characters serve to support or challenge the ma
Read More

Leave a comment

Name .
.
Message .

Thanks! Your comment has been submitted for approval. Please be patient while we weed out the spam ♥