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Ascent Novel Prize is an international competition, open to all unagented writers.

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What book has changed you? Our words and stories have power.

Watch out for our interview with writer, Adebola Rayo, who is this year's Ascent Children's Book Prize Picture Book reader. Follow Conversations on Craft on Youtube or Spotify for more.

Rayo shares her inspirational advice, and gives us an insight into how to keep going when all you face is rejection. #sleepguppysaysbedtimemustwait

And if you haven't entered Ascent Children's Book Prize, what are you waiting for? There's only three weeks left until we close for judging. See link in bio for details.

#ascentnovelprize #writingadvice #writingcompetition

What book has changed you? Our words and stories have power.

Watch out for our interview with writer, Adebola Rayo, who is this year's Ascent Children's Book Prize Picture Book reader. Follow Conversations on Craft on Youtube or Spotify for more.

Rayo shares her inspirational advice, and gives us an insight into how to keep going when all you face is rejection. #sleepguppysaysbedtimemustwait

And if you haven't entered Ascent Children's Book Prize, what are you waiting for? There's only three weeks left until we close for judging. See link in bio for details.

#ascentnovelprize #writingadvice #writingcompetition

Giveaway!

Simply follow Ascent Novel Prize, like this post and tell us what your favourite children’s or YA book is below. Tag your writer friends for extra entries. Open to UK entrants only. Winner will be announced on the 1st July.

To enter Ascent Children’s Book Prize, click the link in our bio. Only 3 weeks left to win £1,000. Our top 100 receive feedback and top scoring writers from underrepresented areas will be commended following the announcement of the winner.

Best of luck everyone!

#writerlygiveaway #writing #writingcompetition

Giveaway!

Simply follow Ascent Novel Prize, like this post and tell us what your favourite children’s or YA book is below. Tag your writer friends for extra entries. Open to UK entrants only. Winner will be announced on the 1st July.

To enter Ascent Children’s Book Prize, click the link in our bio. Only 3 weeks left to win £1,000. Our top 100 receive feedback and top scoring writers from underrepresented areas will be commended following the announcement of the winner.

Best of luck everyone!

#writerlygiveaway #writing #writingcompetition

New podcast out now!

Follow 'Conversations on Craft' for industry advice and writerly chat. Available on Youtube, Spotify and Apple.

This month, Hannah Sheppard shares her journey from editor to agent and reveals what makes a submission shine.

#writingpodcast #ascentnovelprize #findanagent #getpublished

New podcast out now!

Follow 'Conversations on Craft' for industry advice and writerly chat. Available on Youtube, Spotify and Apple.

This month, Hannah Sheppard shares her journey from editor to agent and reveals what makes a submission shine.

#writingpodcast #ascentnovelprize #findanagent #getpublished

Ascent Children's Book Prize is delighted to announce our specialised reader of picture books, Adebola Rayo. Welcome to the team!

Enter before 1st July to share your work with Adebola and be in with a chance of winning £1,000. You may enter up to three picture books (on one document) online. Link in bio. Literary agent, Hannah Sheppard will select the overall winner on 1st December.

Adebola Rayo is a writer, editor, and communications strategist. Her debut children’s book, Sleepy Guppy Says Bedtime Must Wait, was a Highly Commended Winner in Faber & Faber’s FAB Prize 2025.

She is the CEO of Tani Series and Co-Founder of Karanta Kids, organisations dedicated to expanding access to representative stories for children of African descent. Through community events and the digital platform Karanta Kids, her work centres children’s creativity, curiosity, and sense of belonging.

She holds a master’s degree in Corporate and Marketing Communications from IE Business School in Spain and a master’s in Creative Writing from the University of San Francisco in the United States.

I am excited to read picture books that lean into wonder, stories that leave children (and even adult readers) delighted and longing to read them again and again. I advise you to write from your sense of childlike wonder and enjoy the process of following your imagination wherever it takes you. Regardless of what makes it into your final edit, you will, hopefully, have tapped into the whimsy that makes a story thrilling for children.

#ascentnovelprize #writingcompetitions #picturebookcompetition #writingprize

Ascent Children's Book Prize is delighted to announce our specialised reader of picture books, Adebola Rayo. Welcome to the team!

Enter before 1st July to share your work with Adebola and be in with a chance of winning £1,000. You may enter up to three picture books (on one document) online. Link in bio. Literary agent, Hannah Sheppard will select the overall winner on 1st December.

Adebola Rayo is a writer, editor, and communications strategist. Her debut children’s book, Sleepy Guppy Says Bedtime Must Wait, was a Highly Commended Winner in Faber & Faber’s FAB Prize 2025.

She is the CEO of Tani Series and Co-Founder of Karanta Kids, organisations dedicated to expanding access to representative stories for children of African descent. Through community events and the digital platform Karanta Kids, her work centres children’s creativity, curiosity, and sense of belonging.

She holds a master’s degree in Corporate and Marketing Communications from IE Business School in Spain and a master’s in Creative Writing from the University of San Francisco in the United States.

I am excited to read picture books that lean into wonder, stories that leave children (and even adult readers) delighted and longing to read them again and again. I advise you to write from your sense of childlike wonder and enjoy the process of following your imagination wherever it takes you. Regardless of what makes it into your final edit, you will, hopefully, have tapped into the whimsy that makes a story thrilling for children.

#ascentnovelprize #writingcompetitions #picturebookcompetition #writingprize

Author of GLOW UP, LARA BLOOM, Dee Benson encourages you to take a leap of faith and share your work.

Sometimes, there's nothing worse than putting your work in front of others. It takes great courage. It means opening yourself up to criticism. What if no one likes it? But we're here to say, what if someone does? What if your words have the potential to change someone's life for the better? What if, in sharing your story, some out there feels less alone?

#keepgoing #everystorycounts

Author of GLOW UP, LARA BLOOM, Dee Benson encourages you to take a leap of faith and share your work.

Sometimes, there's nothing worse than putting your work in front of others. It takes great courage. It means opening yourself up to criticism. What if no one likes it? But we're here to say, what if someone does? What if your words have the potential to change someone's life for the better? What if, in sharing your story, some out there feels less alone?

#keepgoing #everystorycounts

With experience as both editor and agent, Hannah Sheppard shares her tops tips for perfecting your submission package.

To all with access to our membership area (a free area, designed to support Ascent Novel Prize entrants) Hannah's insights and expert advice is now available!

With one month left to enter Ascent Children's Book Prize, please head to our website for more. Link in bio.

#writingadvice #findanagent #writingcompetitions

With experience as both editor and agent, Hannah Sheppard shares her tops tips for perfecting your submission package.

To all with access to our membership area (a free area, designed to support Ascent Novel Prize entrants) Hannah's insights and expert advice is now available!

With one month left to enter Ascent Children's Book Prize, please head to our website for more. Link in bio.

#writingadvice #findanagent #writingcompetitions

With only one month left before we close for judging, we would like to introduce Ascent Children's Book Prize team.

From picture books to young adult fiction, and all that lies between, we cannot wait to read your entries. Visit AscentNovelPrize.com for full terms and conditions and to enter. Link in bio.

Every entrant to Ascent receives access to a membership area for free, as our aim is to demystify the publishing process. Following the announcement of our winner, our highest scoring entries from writers from underrepresented areas will be selected for our highly commended awards.

This week, we shall reveal our final reader who specialises in picture books. Please note that you may enter up to three picture books on one document.

#writingcompetition #writingprize #writingforchildren #YAauthor

With only one month left before we close for judging, we would like to introduce Ascent Children's Book Prize team.

From picture books to young adult fiction, and all that lies between, we cannot wait to read your entries. Visit AscentNovelPrize.com for full terms and conditions and to enter. Link in bio.

Every entrant to Ascent receives access to a membership area for free, as our aim is to demystify the publishing process. Following the announcement of our winner, our highest scoring entries from writers from underrepresented areas will be selected for our highly commended awards.

This week, we shall reveal our final reader who specialises in picture books. Please note that you may enter up to three picture books on one document.

#writingcompetition #writingprize #writingforchildren #YAauthor

Ascent Children's Book Prize is thrilled to reveal their first reader, Yasmin Rahman.

Enter online by the 1st July to win £1,000. Every entrant receives access to our membership area and the top 100 entrants receive a paragraph of personalised feedback. For more info, click on the link in our bio.

Yasmin Rahman is a YA author whose books focus on friendship, and the British Muslim experience. She’s very excited to be part of the Ascent Novel Prize and looking forward to reading submissions filled with emotion and perchance a smidge of humour. She has two masters degrees in Creative Writing, and from them she’s learned that the best advice is to write the thing you want to read, the book you wish existed. The thing that will shine in your entries is the passion and dedication you’ve poured into it.

#writingcompetition #ascentnovelprize #writingadvice #writingprize #findanagent #getpublished

Ascent Children's Book Prize is thrilled to reveal their first reader, Yasmin Rahman.

Enter online by the 1st July to win £1,000. Every entrant receives access to our membership area and the top 100 entrants receive a paragraph of personalised feedback. For more info, click on the link in our bio.

Yasmin Rahman is a YA author whose books focus on friendship, and the British Muslim experience. She’s very excited to be part of the Ascent Novel Prize and looking forward to reading submissions filled with emotion and perchance a smidge of humour. She has two masters degrees in Creative Writing, and from them she’s learned that the best advice is to write the thing you want to read, the book you wish existed. The thing that will shine in your entries is the passion and dedication you’ve poured into it.

#writingcompetition #ascentnovelprize #writingadvice #writingprize #findanagent #getpublished

New episode, out now!

Tune in for more writing tips and publishing industry insights. Conversations on Craft is available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Follow, like and share.

#ascentnovelprize #writingcompetitions #findanagent #getpublished #writingpodcast #writingadvice

New episode, out now!

Tune in for more writing tips and publishing industry insights. Conversations on Craft is available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Follow, like and share.

#ascentnovelprize #writingcompetitions #findanagent #getpublished #writingpodcast #writingadvice

Navigating feedback as a writer can be difficult. Head to Ascent Novel Prize's podcast, 'Conversations on Craft' for more.

You may wish to consider:
1. What is the experience of the person giving you feedback? Do they read widely within your genre?
2. Sit with the feedback before making any changes. What feels right? What did you have an emotional reaction to?
3. Consider how you wanted the reader to feel. For example, not all characters are supposed to be likeable.
4. Consider what sort of feedback you're looking for and make this explicit at the start. Do you want feedback at the line level or do you want to know if the overarching story works? Do you want to know how the reader felt? Places where the pace flagged? Or do you want a deep dive on character?
5. Using more than one person to give you feedback can help you figure out what your common issues are. Aim to gain an understanding of your own strengths as well as weaknesses.
6. Leave time between finishing your manuscript and giving it a read through yourself. Many people find having it printed out or sending it to kindle changes the reading experience, helping you turn from writer into reader.
7. Do not mistake confusion for intrigue. At the opening of each scene your reader needs to know where they are.
8. Avoid cliches. Highlight them. Remove them. If your book opens with a character waking up or a character who is confused and running away consider how you can guide the reader into the story more successfully.
9. Search for repeated words or phrases. Knowing that a character is holding their breath, breathing out, giving a sigh gets weary quite fast!

@the_shit_about_writing regularly organises beta-reader swaps. Our best advice would be to find your people! Aim to find other writers who want you to succeed. Ask for honesty and don't be afraid to hear what people have to say. Suggestions to improve your work are only that. You remain in control. But equally, you must be ready to listen. Find what resonates. Question what hurts. And don't be afraid to kill your darlings. You've got this!

#ascentnovelprize #writingadvice #conversationsoncraft

Navigating feedback as a writer can be difficult. Head to Ascent Novel Prize's podcast, 'Conversations on Craft' for more.

You may wish to consider:
1. What is the experience of the person giving you feedback? Do they read widely within your genre?
2. Sit with the feedback before making any changes. What feels right? What did you have an emotional reaction to?
3. Consider how you wanted the reader to feel. For example, not all characters are supposed to be likeable.
4. Consider what sort of feedback you're looking for and make this explicit at the start. Do you want feedback at the line level or do you want to know if the overarching story works? Do you want to know how the reader felt? Places where the pace flagged? Or do you want a deep dive on character?
5. Using more than one person to give you feedback can help you figure out what your common issues are. Aim to gain an understanding of your own strengths as well as weaknesses.
6. Leave time between finishing your manuscript and giving it a read through yourself. Many people find having it printed out or sending it to kindle changes the reading experience, helping you turn from writer into reader.
7. Do not mistake confusion for intrigue. At the opening of each scene your reader needs to know where they are.
8. Avoid cliches. Highlight them. Remove them. If your book opens with a character waking up or a character who is confused and running away consider how you can guide the reader into the story more successfully.
9. Search for repeated words or phrases. Knowing that a character is holding their breath, breathing out, giving a sigh gets weary quite fast!

@the_shit_about_writing regularly organises beta-reader swaps. Our best advice would be to find your people! Aim to find other writers who want you to succeed. Ask for honesty and don't be afraid to hear what people have to say. Suggestions to improve your work are only that. You remain in control. But equally, you must be ready to listen. Find what resonates. Question what hurts. And don't be afraid to kill your darlings. You've got this!

#ascentnovelprize #writingadvice #conversationsoncraft

Huge congratulations to Erica Li, winner of Ascent Novel Prize, on her shortlisting with the Footnote x Counterpoint Arts Prize in collaboration with the Southbank Centre.

Footnote x Counterpoint Arts Prize aims to highlight writers from refugee and migrant backgrounds whose work explored themes of displacement, courage and belonging. Visit @wearefootnote for more, including details on the shortlistee's reading on 31st May.

To watch Erica's full interview visit Ascent Novel Prize's YouTube channel, Conversations on Craft.

#writingcompetitions #yourstorycounts

Huge congratulations to Erica Li, winner of Ascent Novel Prize, on her shortlisting with the Footnote x Counterpoint Arts Prize in collaboration with the Southbank Centre.

Footnote x Counterpoint Arts Prize aims to highlight writers from refugee and migrant backgrounds whose work explored themes of displacement, courage and belonging. Visit @wearefootnote for more, including details on the shortlistee's reading on 31st May.

To watch Erica's full interview visit Ascent Novel Prize's YouTube channel, Conversations on Craft.

#writingcompetitions #yourstorycounts

NEW BLOG POST OUT NOW...

This month, we're thrilled to welcome author of 'A Healthy Appetite' @katiehauthor who shares writing advice for every exhausted writer. (Yes, that's all of us!)

Visit our website - link in bio - and head to our writing advice page for more.

'A Healthy Appetite' is described as delightfully dark and addictive, a ravenous tale of morality vs mortality, that asks how much of yourself would you give up to become healthy?

Perfect for fans of Sayaka Murata and Monika Kim.

Hannah is dying for a cure.

After a decade subsumed by a cancer diagnosis, Hannah is now thirty, existing in a hinterland between life and death. Her boyfriend Scott has become more of a carer than a lover, and – with no job, no plans, and no more options – she has resigned herself to no future.

But then she's given the opportunity to join phase one of a clinical trial that might just save her. Almost immediately, she feels different; that evening, her appetite returns. And it keeps growing...

Now Hannah is hungry for life.

A committed vegetarian, Hannah suddenly finds herself craving meat — but her new hunger isn't limited to food. Now she wants everything. As new and suppressed desires surface, she becomes reckless, destructive, and deceitful. It's the miracle drug she's been waiting for, but at what cost?

Pre-order link via Dead Ink's website: https://deadinkbooks.com/product/a-healthy-appetite/

#writingadvice #getpublished #ascentnovelprize #writingcompetition

NEW BLOG POST OUT NOW...

This month, we're thrilled to welcome author of 'A Healthy Appetite' @katiehauthor who shares writing advice for every exhausted writer. (Yes, that's all of us!)

Visit our website - link in bio - and head to our writing advice page for more.

'A Healthy Appetite' is described as delightfully dark and addictive, a ravenous tale of morality vs mortality, that asks how much of yourself would you give up to become healthy?

Perfect for fans of Sayaka Murata and Monika Kim.

Hannah is dying for a cure.

After a decade subsumed by a cancer diagnosis, Hannah is now thirty, existing in a hinterland between life and death. Her boyfriend Scott has become more of a carer than a lover, and – with no job, no plans, and no more options – she has resigned herself to no future.

But then she's given the opportunity to join phase one of a clinical trial that might just save her. Almost immediately, she feels different; that evening, her appetite returns. And it keeps growing...

Now Hannah is hungry for life.

A committed vegetarian, Hannah suddenly finds herself craving meat — but her new hunger isn't limited to food. Now she wants everything. As new and suppressed desires surface, she becomes reckless, destructive, and deceitful. It's the miracle drug she's been waiting for, but at what cost?

Pre-order link via Dead Ink's website: https://deadinkbooks.com/product/a-healthy-appetite/

#writingadvice #getpublished #ascentnovelprize #writingcompetition

Ascent Children's Book Prize is open for entries.

For chapter books, middle grade, and Young Adult, submit up to 3,000 words, a one-sentence pitch and a one-page synopsis at www.ascentnovelprize.com. (Link in bio)

For picture books, you may submit up to 3 texts.

1st prize: £1,000
Entry fee: £29
Every entrant receives access to a free membership area.
The top 100 hundred entries receive one paragraph of personalised feedback from an industry professional.

Our winner will be announced on the 1st December. This year, our prize is judged by literary agent Hannah Sheppard:

"I love stories and I want to make sure that as many fantastic stories from as diverse a range of authors as possible end up on our bookshop shelves. I want to be entertained while also deeply caring about your characters.

The best advice I can give to authors at the beginning of their career is that it’s a marathon not a sprint and to keep putting your work out there because it only takes one yes but if you’re avoiding the no then you’ll never find the yes."

Visit http://www.ascentnovelprize.com
for full terms and conditions.

Following the announcement of the winner, our highest scoring writers from under-represented backgrounds will receive an award alongside any other highly commended entries. Simply tick the box on our submissions page if you want to be considered.

#writingcompetition #ascentnovelprize #unagentedwriter #writingprize #worldwidewritingcompetition #agentjudges #aspiringwriter #seekingagent

Ascent Children's Book Prize is open for entries.

For chapter books, middle grade, and Young Adult, submit up to 3,000 words, a one-sentence pitch and a one-page synopsis at www.ascentnovelprize.com. (Link in bio)

For picture books, you may submit up to 3 texts.

1st prize: £1,000
Entry fee: £29
Every entrant receives access to a free membership area.
The top 100 hundred entries receive one paragraph of personalised feedback from an industry professional.

Our winner will be announced on the 1st December. This year, our prize is judged by literary agent Hannah Sheppard:

"I love stories and I want to make sure that as many fantastic stories from as diverse a range of authors as possible end up on our bookshop shelves. I want to be entertained while also deeply caring about your characters.

The best advice I can give to authors at the beginning of their career is that it’s a marathon not a sprint and to keep putting your work out there because it only takes one yes but if you’re avoiding the no then you’ll never find the yes."

Visit http://www.ascentnovelprize.com
for full terms and conditions.

Following the announcement of the winner, our highest scoring writers from under-represented backgrounds will receive an award alongside any other highly commended entries. Simply tick the box on our submissions page if you want to be considered.

#writingcompetition #ascentnovelprize #unagentedwriter #writingprize #worldwidewritingcompetition #agentjudges #aspiringwriter #seekingagent

All feedback has been sent to writers who entered Ascent Novel Prize 2025/26.

If you haven't received your feedback, please email info@ascentnovelprize.com immediately as all information from 2025/26 will be deleted at the end of this month.

Our Children's Book Prize is now open for entries, and we are accepting picture books, chapter books, middle-grade and YA. See our website for more details. Link in bio.

Our adult prize will be open for entries from 1st June.

#ascentnovelprize #writingcompetition #writersofinstagram #writingprize

All feedback has been sent to writers who entered Ascent Novel Prize 2025/26.

If you haven't received your feedback, please email info@ascentnovelprize.com immediately as all information from 2025/26 will be deleted at the end of this month.

Our Children's Book Prize is now open for entries, and we are accepting picture books, chapter books, middle-grade and YA. See our website for more details. Link in bio.

Our adult prize will be open for entries from 1st June.

#ascentnovelprize #writingcompetition #writersofinstagram #writingprize

Happy publication day to THE LAST STARBORN SEER.

Tomorrow at 8pm, episode 7 will be released where we interview Venetia Constantine, author of THE LAST STARBORN SEER.

Venetia shares her writing process, including how she developed her world building and found her agent. When a writer is compared to Tolkien, you don't want to miss out on their top world building tips.

Be sure to follow our podcast, Conversations of Craft, so you never miss an episode.

#ascentnovelprize #writingadvice #conversationsoncraft #writingcommunity #fantasyworldbuilding

Happy publication day to THE LAST STARBORN SEER.

Tomorrow at 8pm, episode 7 will be released where we interview Venetia Constantine, author of THE LAST STARBORN SEER.

Venetia shares her writing process, including how she developed her world building and found her agent. When a writer is compared to Tolkien, you don't want to miss out on their top world building tips.

Be sure to follow our podcast, Conversations of Craft, so you never miss an episode.

#ascentnovelprize #writingadvice #conversationsoncraft #writingcommunity #fantasyworldbuilding

Huge congratulations all to our wonderful writers! What an incredible week. ❤️

#ascentnovelprize

Huge congratulations all to our wonderful writers! What an incredible week. ❤️

#ascentnovelprize

Following the announcement of our winning and highly-commended entries, we are thrilled to reveal our top scoring 2025/26 writers who have received three very special awards.

The Messrs Fletcher and Frost Fiction Award, for the highest scoring contemporary or literary manuscript, has gone to Zoe Dunkley for her novel SUNRISE ON AN UNLIKELY SAFARI.

The Stacey Thomas HIstorical Fiction Award, for the highest scoring historical fiction manuscript, has gone to Anne Farquharson, for her novel THE DEBATABLE LANDS.

The Venetia Constantine Fantasy Award, for the highest scoring fantasy manuscript of 2025/26 goes to Ashleigh Morgan.

Congratulations all! Each writer will receive £100 and feedback from readers and judges. All entrants to Ascent Novel Prize receive free access to a membership area at ascentnovelprize.com which contains free training materials and interviews on the craft of writing.

#ascentnovelprize #writingprize #writingcompetition

Following the announcement of our winning and highly-commended entries, we are thrilled to reveal our top scoring 2025/26 writers who have received three very special awards.

The Messrs Fletcher and Frost Fiction Award, for the highest scoring contemporary or literary manuscript, has gone to Zoe Dunkley for her novel SUNRISE ON AN UNLIKELY SAFARI.

The Stacey Thomas HIstorical Fiction Award, for the highest scoring historical fiction manuscript, has gone to Anne Farquharson, for her novel THE DEBATABLE LANDS.

The Venetia Constantine Fantasy Award, for the highest scoring fantasy manuscript of 2025/26 goes to Ashleigh Morgan.

Congratulations all! Each writer will receive £100 and feedback from readers and judges. All entrants to Ascent Novel Prize receive free access to a membership area at ascentnovelprize.com which contains free training materials and interviews on the craft of writing.

#ascentnovelprize #writingprize #writingcompetition

Following the announcement of our winning and highly-commended entries, we are thrilled to reveal our top scoring 2025/26 writers who have received three very special awards.

The Messrs Fletcher and Frost Fiction Award, for the highest scoring contemporary or literary manuscript, has gone to Zoe Dunkley for her novel SUNRISE ON AN UNLIKELY SAFARI.

The Stacey Thomas HIstorical Fiction Award, for the highest scoring historical fiction manuscript, has gone to Anne Farquharson, for her novel THE DEBATABLE LANDS.

The Venetia Constantine Fantasy Award, for the highest scoring fantasy manuscript of 2025/26 goes to Ashleigh Morgan.

Congratulations all! Each writer will receive £100 and feedback from readers and judges. All entrants to Ascent Novel Prize receive free access to a membership area at ascentnovelprize.com which contains free training materials and interviews on the craft of writing.

#ascentnovelprize #writingprize #writingcompetition

Following the announcement of our winning and highly-commended entries, we are thrilled to reveal our top scoring 2025/26 writers who have received three very special awards.

The Messrs Fletcher and Frost Fiction Award, for the highest scoring contemporary or literary manuscript, has gone to Zoe Dunkley for her novel SUNRISE ON AN UNLIKELY SAFARI.

The Stacey Thomas HIstorical Fiction Award, for the highest scoring historical fiction manuscript, has gone to Anne Farquharson, for her novel THE DEBATABLE LANDS.

The Venetia Constantine Fantasy Award, for the highest scoring fantasy manuscript of 2025/26 goes to Ashleigh Morgan.

Congratulations all! Each writer will receive £100 and feedback from readers and judges. All entrants to Ascent Novel Prize receive free access to a membership area at ascentnovelprize.com which contains free training materials and interviews on the craft of writing.

#ascentnovelprize #writingprize #writingcompetition

Following the announcement of our winning and highly-commended entries, we are thrilled to reveal our top scoring 2025/26 writers who have received three very special awards.

The Messrs Fletcher and Frost Fiction Award, for the highest scoring contemporary or literary manuscript, has gone to Zoe Dunkley for her novel SUNRISE ON AN UNLIKELY SAFARI.

The Stacey Thomas HIstorical Fiction Award, for the highest scoring historical fiction manuscript, has gone to Anne Farquharson, for her novel THE DEBATABLE LANDS.

The Venetia Constantine Fantasy Award, for the highest scoring fantasy manuscript of 2025/26 goes to Ashleigh Morgan.

Congratulations all! Each writer will receive £100 and feedback from readers and judges. All entrants to Ascent Novel Prize receive free access to a membership area at ascentnovelprize.com which contains free training materials and interviews on the craft of writing.

#ascentnovelprize #writingprize #writingcompetition

Following the announcement of our winning and highly-commended entries, we are thrilled to reveal our top scoring 2025/26 writers who have received three very special awards.

The Messrs Fletcher and Frost Fiction Award, for the highest scoring contemporary or literary manuscript, has gone to Zoe Dunkley for her novel SUNRISE ON AN UNLIKELY SAFARI.

The Stacey Thomas HIstorical Fiction Award, for the highest scoring historical fiction manuscript, has gone to Anne Farquharson, for her novel THE DEBATABLE LANDS.

The Venetia Constantine Fantasy Award, for the highest scoring fantasy manuscript of 2025/26 goes to Ashleigh Morgan.

Congratulations all! Each writer will receive £100 and feedback from readers and judges. All entrants to Ascent Novel Prize receive free access to a membership area at ascentnovelprize.com which contains free training materials and interviews on the craft of writing.

#ascentnovelprize #writingprize #writingcompetition

It is with great honour that we reveal this year's winner of Ascent Novel Prize, Erica Li.

Judges Aje Roberts, Senior Commissioning Editor at Tor, and Liza DeBlock from @greenstoneliterary were impressed by Erica's literary novel, which traces three generations of Hakka-Chinese women from 1945 to the present, spanning China, Hong Kong, England and America, exploring themes of displacement, identity and memory.

Erica has won £1,000 plus feedback from our readers and judges who loved her spellbinding, multi-generational tale. Huge congratulations to Erica.

To hear more, subscribe to our Youtube channel 'Conversations on Craft' (also available on Spotify and Apple) where we shall soon release an interview with Erica. Or subscribe to our newsletter, by clicking on the link in our bio.

Ascent Children's Book Prize is open for entries until 1st July. Ascent Novel Prize will re-open for adult novels on the 1st June. To enter, and for more information click on the link in our bio.

A huge thanks to our judges @ajetheeditor and @lizathelitagent for their expertise in selecting our winner. Their guidance helped turn an idea into a reality that will uplift the voices of new and emerging writers for years to come.

And last but not least! This prize would not exist without the support of @messrsbooks an independent bookshop in the heart of New Brighton. Messrs Fletcher and Frost have provided sponsorship for so many low-income writers this year. Thank you for helping remove financial barriers for the next generation of writers and for your ongoing support and wisdom.

#ascentnovelprize #writingcompetitions #getpublished #findanagent #writingadvice #writingprize #bookstagram

It is with great honour that we reveal this year's winner of Ascent Novel Prize, Erica Li.

Judges Aje Roberts, Senior Commissioning Editor at Tor, and Liza DeBlock from @greenstoneliterary were impressed by Erica's literary novel, which traces three generations of Hakka-Chinese women from 1945 to the present, spanning China, Hong Kong, England and America, exploring themes of displacement, identity and memory.

Erica has won £1,000 plus feedback from our readers and judges who loved her spellbinding, multi-generational tale. Huge congratulations to Erica.

To hear more, subscribe to our Youtube channel 'Conversations on Craft' (also available on Spotify and Apple) where we shall soon release an interview with Erica. Or subscribe to our newsletter, by clicking on the link in our bio.

Ascent Children's Book Prize is open for entries until 1st July. Ascent Novel Prize will re-open for adult novels on the 1st June. To enter, and for more information click on the link in our bio.

A huge thanks to our judges @ajetheeditor and @lizathelitagent for their expertise in selecting our winner. Their guidance helped turn an idea into a reality that will uplift the voices of new and emerging writers for years to come.

And last but not least! This prize would not exist without the support of @messrsbooks an independent bookshop in the heart of New Brighton. Messrs Fletcher and Frost have provided sponsorship for so many low-income writers this year. Thank you for helping remove financial barriers for the next generation of writers and for your ongoing support and wisdom.

#ascentnovelprize #writingcompetitions #getpublished #findanagent #writingadvice #writingprize #bookstagram

The first of many exciting announcements today!

May we introduce the wonderful Leanne Quinn, author of the romantic comedy, 'My Ex-Fiancé's Wedding'.

Judges Liza DeBlock from @greenstoneliterary and Aje Roberts, Senior Commissioning Editor at Tor, selected Leanne's work as our highly commended entry due to her excellent use of humour and well-polished prose. They couldn't put this book down. Please join me in offering Leanne a huge congratulations.

#ascentnovelprize #highlycommended #writingcompetition

The first of many exciting announcements today!

May we introduce the wonderful Leanne Quinn, author of the romantic comedy, 'My Ex-Fiancé's Wedding'.

Judges Liza DeBlock from @greenstoneliterary and Aje Roberts, Senior Commissioning Editor at Tor, selected Leanne's work as our highly commended entry due to her excellent use of humour and well-polished prose. They couldn't put this book down. Please join me in offering Leanne a huge congratulations.

#ascentnovelprize #highlycommended #writingcompetition

On the eve of announcing our first Ascent Novel Prize winner, we thought we'd share an interview with judge and Senior Commissioning Editor Aje Roberts. Available on Youtube, Spotify and Apple. Enjoy!

#ascentnovelprize #conversationsoncraft #writingadvice #getpublished #writethebookofyourheart

On the eve of announcing our first Ascent Novel Prize winner, we thought we'd share an interview with judge and Senior Commissioning Editor Aje Roberts. Available on Youtube, Spotify and Apple. Enjoy!

#ascentnovelprize #conversationsoncraft #writingadvice #getpublished #writethebookofyourheart

Ascent Children's Book Prize is now open for entries and we are thrilled to introduce our judge, Hannah Sheppard:

I started my career in-house in the editorial department, first at Macmillan Children’s Books and then running the YA list at Headline (part of Hachette). This gives me valuable insight into the workings of a publishing house which helps inform my work as an agent.

In 2013 I switched from editorial to agenting when I realised that would give me more time to focus on the parts of the job that I really love – working directly with authors to develop their ideas for commercial success.

After ten years at the DHH Literary Agency I decided to launch the Hannah Sheppard Literary Agency with the aim of being part of the change publishing so desperately needs.

I love stories and I want to make sure that as many fantastic stories from as diverse a range of authors as possible end up on our bookshop shelves. I want to be entertained while also deeply caring about your characters. I love bold, distinctive voices, strong and unique hooks and flawed characters with something to learn. I’m looking for joyful representation and books that show us what a kinder, more just world might look like so that we can show each other what to work towards. I also like big, mind-bending ideas and combinations of genres that feel fresh and create something new.

The best advice I can give to authors at the beginning of their career is that it’s a marathon not a sprint and to keep putting your work out there because it only takes one yes but if you’re avoiding the no then you’ll never find the yes. Keep writing and write the book that only you could write because your voice and your story matters.

#ascentchildrensbookprize #writingcompetition

Ascent Children's Book Prize is now open for entries and we are thrilled to introduce our judge, Hannah Sheppard:

I started my career in-house in the editorial department, first at Macmillan Children’s Books and then running the YA list at Headline (part of Hachette). This gives me valuable insight into the workings of a publishing house which helps inform my work as an agent.

In 2013 I switched from editorial to agenting when I realised that would give me more time to focus on the parts of the job that I really love – working directly with authors to develop their ideas for commercial success.

After ten years at the DHH Literary Agency I decided to launch the Hannah Sheppard Literary Agency with the aim of being part of the change publishing so desperately needs.

I love stories and I want to make sure that as many fantastic stories from as diverse a range of authors as possible end up on our bookshop shelves. I want to be entertained while also deeply caring about your characters. I love bold, distinctive voices, strong and unique hooks and flawed characters with something to learn. I’m looking for joyful representation and books that show us what a kinder, more just world might look like so that we can show each other what to work towards. I also like big, mind-bending ideas and combinations of genres that feel fresh and create something new.

The best advice I can give to authors at the beginning of their career is that it’s a marathon not a sprint and to keep putting your work out there because it only takes one yes but if you’re avoiding the no then you’ll never find the yes. Keep writing and write the book that only you could write because your voice and your story matters.

#ascentchildrensbookprize #writingcompetition

February’s newsletter is in your inbox!

Read to discover our long and shortlisted titles, for words of advice and an exciting announcement regarding our Children’s Book Prize.

To sign up to our newsletter, visit our website (link in bio) and scroll to the bottom of the page. Keep up to date with our writing community and hear from authors at every stage of their career.

#ascentnovelprize #writingcompetition #amwriting #getpublished #findanagent

February’s newsletter is in your inbox!

Read to discover our long and shortlisted titles, for words of advice and an exciting announcement regarding our Children’s Book Prize.

To sign up to our newsletter, visit our website (link in bio) and scroll to the bottom of the page. Keep up to date with our writing community and hear from authors at every stage of their career.

#ascentnovelprize #writingcompetition #amwriting #getpublished #findanagent

We have twelve incredible writers on our shortlist, chosen from hundreds of international entries and across a range of genres. Please join me in congratulating our inaugural shortlist for 2025/26. The list is on our website, link in bio.

The next step for these writers is an exciting one, as their manuscripts will be assessed by senior commissioning editor, Aje Roberts, and literary agent @lizathelitagent from @greenstoneliterary

One winner will be announced on the 1st March. They will receive £1,000, however they are already part of an amazing community at Ascent Novel Prize.

Our highest scoring writers from under-represented backgrounds will be put forward to be considered for our highly commended places alongside other top scoring manuscripts. Best of luck everyone!

#ascentnovelprize #shortlist #writerscommunity #writingcompetition #internationalwritingprize #findanagent #getpublished

We have twelve incredible writers on our shortlist, chosen from hundreds of international entries and across a range of genres. Please join me in congratulating our inaugural shortlist for 2025/26. The list is on our website, link in bio.

The next step for these writers is an exciting one, as their manuscripts will be assessed by senior commissioning editor, Aje Roberts, and literary agent @lizathelitagent from @greenstoneliterary

One winner will be announced on the 1st March. They will receive £1,000, however they are already part of an amazing community at Ascent Novel Prize.

Our highest scoring writers from under-represented backgrounds will be put forward to be considered for our highly commended places alongside other top scoring manuscripts. Best of luck everyone!

#ascentnovelprize #shortlist #writerscommunity #writingcompetition #internationalwritingprize #findanagent #getpublished

TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS...

January's Podcast from 'Conversations on Craft' is available on YouTube, Spotify and Apple. This month we are joined by Dr Ashleigh Nugent, author of 'Locks' and Liverpool City Region's Artist of the Year 2022.

Dr Nugent's journey to publication is an inspiration. From a prison in Jamaica to a publishing deal, Dr Nugent shares how he was made to believe that education wasn't for him, and went on to prove everyone wrong. His stream-of-consciousness style has been compared to Virginia Woolf (but from the ends!). Watch now to discover how he captures the reality of life by using flashback and poetic prose.

#conversationsoncraft #ascentnovelprize #ashleighnugent #writinginspiration #journeytopublication

TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS...

January's Podcast from 'Conversations on Craft' is available on YouTube, Spotify and Apple. This month we are joined by Dr Ashleigh Nugent, author of 'Locks' and Liverpool City Region's Artist of the Year 2022.

Dr Nugent's journey to publication is an inspiration. From a prison in Jamaica to a publishing deal, Dr Nugent shares how he was made to believe that education wasn't for him, and went on to prove everyone wrong. His stream-of-consciousness style has been compared to Virginia Woolf (but from the ends!). Watch now to discover how he captures the reality of life by using flashback and poetic prose.

#conversationsoncraft #ascentnovelprize #ashleighnugent #writinginspiration #journeytopublication

Our inaugural shortlist will be announced on the 1st February. Best of luck to all our wonderful writers.

Please note that all writers will be emailed up to 24 hours before the public announcement.

#ascentnovelprize #shortlisting #writingcompetition #getpublished #writersofinstagram

Our inaugural shortlist will be announced on the 1st February. Best of luck to all our wonderful writers.

Please note that all writers will be emailed up to 24 hours before the public announcement.

#ascentnovelprize #shortlisting #writingcompetition #getpublished #writersofinstagram

The wait is almost over! At 8pm (GMT) we will announce our inaugural longlist. Please visit ascentnovelprize.com (link in bio and a link will also be added to our stories at 8pm).

A huge congratulations to all our writers, to those who have listed and to those who have not. You have created something no one else can. You've sent your work into the world. Despite resistance, self-doubt and rejection you continue to write. We see you. Keep going! And let's raise a glass to our 2025/26 longlistees. What a talented bunch you are.

#ascentnovelprize #longlist #writingcompetition #keepmakingyourart

The wait is almost over! At 8pm (GMT) we will announce our inaugural longlist. Please visit ascentnovelprize.com (link in bio and a link will also be added to our stories at 8pm).

A huge congratulations to all our writers, to those who have listed and to those who have not. You have created something no one else can. You've sent your work into the world. Despite resistance, self-doubt and rejection you continue to write. We see you. Keep going! And let's raise a glass to our 2025/26 longlistees. What a talented bunch you are.

#ascentnovelprize #longlist #writingcompetition #keepmakingyourart

Our longlist will be published on our website at 8pm (GMT) on the 20th January. We shall provide links in our stories also. Best of luck everyone.

If you are longlisted, you will receive an email with instructions of what we need for the shortlisting process. Essentially this is the first 30k of your novel and your one-line pitch and synopsis. You will have 48 hours to email this to info@ascentnovelprize.com

A common question is, my opening has changed, is this okay? And as we view novels as constantly evolving works of art, this is fine. Although just a note that we aren’t able to differentiate your feedback between the different versions you’ve submitted.

As always, if you have any questions or are unsure about anything please email and we’ll respond within 24 hours.

Best of luck to all our wonderful writers.

#ascentnovelprize

Our longlist will be published on our website at 8pm (GMT) on the 20th January. We shall provide links in our stories also. Best of luck everyone.

If you are longlisted, you will receive an email with instructions of what we need for the shortlisting process. Essentially this is the first 30k of your novel and your one-line pitch and synopsis. You will have 48 hours to email this to info@ascentnovelprize.com

A common question is, my opening has changed, is this okay? And as we view novels as constantly evolving works of art, this is fine. Although just a note that we aren’t able to differentiate your feedback between the different versions you’ve submitted.

As always, if you have any questions or are unsure about anything please email and we’ll respond within 24 hours.

Best of luck to all our wonderful writers.

#ascentnovelprize

Happy New Year writers! Sending you all the best wishes for this year. May all you biggest writerly dreams come true.

Let’s see who’s going to win our 4 amazing craft books…

It’s time to spin the wheel!

#ascentnovelprize #bookishgiveaway #writingcompetition #writersofinstagram

Happy New Year writers! Sending you all the best wishes for this year. May all you biggest writerly dreams come true.

Let’s see who’s going to win our 4 amazing craft books…

It’s time to spin the wheel!

#ascentnovelprize #bookishgiveaway #writingcompetition #writersofinstagram

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