The prize accepts novels in any genre of adult fiction, with entrants invited to submit the first 10,000 words of their novel and a synopsis of up to 1,000 words.

The prize doesn’t require writers to have finished a novel – only to have started one – and it is free to enter. We're looking for writing that shows real potential, not necessarily polished drafts. We would also like to encourage applications from writers who have previously submitted to the prize and have continued working on their stories.

Prizes

First Prize
The winner will be offered representation by Curtis Brown Literary Agency and a cash prize of £5,000.

Shortlist
One promising writer, named the ‘Discoveries Scholar’, will also win a free scholarship to attend a three-month Writing Your Novel course with Curtis Brown Creative (worth £1,800).
All six shortlisted authors will be offered a mentoring session with a Curtis Brown agent, plus a free place on a six-week online writing course with Curtis Brown Creative.
The shortlisted writers will also take part in a studio session focused on writing and recording for audio with Audible.

Longlist
All 16 longlisted authors will receive a bespoke, two-week online Discoveries Writing Development Course designed by Curtis Brown Creative and taught by Charlotte Mendelson

This year's expert panel of judges will be chaired by Kate Mosse, Founder Director of the Women’s Prize.

Find out more here.

Deadline: 11:59pm on 13 January 2025