2023 Winter Anthology Contest: Compelling First Chapters

Prompt: Enter the first chapter of your in-progress novel or memoir. Your goal is to create a sample that compels readers to click buy.

That means we’re looking for first chapters that capture our attention and leave us eager to keep reading. Successful first chapters will build a foundation for the story to come, establishing key story elements like character, world, and conflict.

All entrants will receive an editorial critique of their chapter and be allowed time to revise before judging. 

Grand Prize: $1000 and anthology publication. 

Finalist Prize: All finalists will receive $50 and anthology publication.

Prerequisites: An original, unpublished first chapter. 2,500-3,000 words. Entrants must be 18+. Please do not send short stories or your entire manuscript. English only.

Deadline: 01/15/24. 

Entry Fee: $20