A newly launched international writing competition designed for unpublished and un-agented novelists is now open for submissions. Ascent Novel Prize offers emerging writers an opportunity to gain expert recognition and propel their literary careers — with entries just £29 and free for writers who lack equal opportunities.
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Founded by Hayley King, the new concept aims to bridge the gap and offer novelists an affordable literary competition with equal opportunities. In addition to the £1,000 prize for the winner, there are also awards specifically for under-represented writers, which participants can opt into by simply ticking a box during the submission process.
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Participants are invited to submit the opening 3,000 words of their novel, accompanied by a one-sentence pitch and a one-page synopsis. There is a £29 entry fee for each submission. Those who are longlisted are then required to send the first 30,000 words of their novel and those who are shortlisted, their full novel that must have a minimum of 50,000 words.
What sets this competition apart is the personalized feedback every entrant receives — a rare feature in literary contests. Every writer who enters also gains free access to the prize’s members’ area. This space includes expert advice from publishing professionals, writing courses focused on craft and a supportive community of fellow novelists. Access to these resources continues until the next prize cycle.
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The judging panel consists of six readers, including established and bestselling authors from genres such as thriller, fantasy and historical fiction. Notable readers announced include A. Y. Chao, author of Shanghai Immortal; Pim Wangtechawat, author of The Moon Represents My Heart; Stacey Thomas, author of The Revels; and Venetia Constantine, author of The Last Starborn Seer.
Supporting the prize is Messrs Fletcher & Frost, an independent bookshop in New Brighton, Wirral, that’s committed to community and inclusivity. They back the under-represented writers’ awards, reinforcing the competition’s mission to spotlight diverse literary voices.
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Founder Hayley King, from St. Helens, comes from a working class background and has entered many literary competitions. Frustrated with the rising barriers to entering the publishing world, and with only 10% of writers in the UK being from working-class backgrounds, she decided to leave a twenty-year teaching career to set up a writing prize with a difference. Ascent Novel Prize is open to entries from the 1st July to 1st November.
Hayley explained: “There are so many talented writers out there but to get recognised by literary awards, or even get feedback and critique, can be very difficult. It can be disheartening for authors. Through Ascent Novel Prize I aim to bridge the gap and offer entries for a low cost and free in certain circumstances. It’s important that we support and celebrate all literary talent — not just those who can afford to put themselves forward.”
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Ascent Novel Prize stands out for its inclusive, writer-first ethos. It provides not only financial rewards but also meaningful support and industry insight. For any un-agented author ready to take the next step in their career, the competition’s launch on 1st July 2025 marks a valuable opportunity to be seen and supported in the publishing world.
Ascent Novel Prize / Entries from 1st July 2025 until 1st November 2025
