Budding authors are being invited to put their novel ideas to the test in Farnham Literary Festival’s First Five Pages writing competition which is designed to discover fresh voices in fiction.
The competition is open to anyone who has ever had an idea for a novel and wondered if it has what it takes, or for those who harbour a dream of becoming a published author.
First Five Pages offers writers the chance to win the prestigious Paris Prize for Fiction, which includes £1,000 and a professional critique from literary agent Katie Fulford of Bell Lomax Moreton. Second and third place winners will receive £300 and £200 respectively.
Entrants are invited to submit the first five pages of their novel, along with a 250-word synopsis. The first prize money is generously provided by B.A. Paris, New York Times and Sunday Times best-selling author, who will also serve as one of the judges.
“This competition is a fantastic opportunity for anyone with a story to tell,” says Farnham Town Councillor Kika Mirylees, Lead Member for Culture. “Whether you’re testing the waters with a first draft or chasing the dream of publication, Farnham’s First Five Pages gives you the chance to see if your novel has what it takes – and to receive expert feedback from industry professionals.”
The deadline for entries is 31st December 2025. The longlist will be announced on 16 February and the shortlist on 27 February. The winner will be announced at an awards ceremony marking the end of Farnham Literary Festival on 15th March 2026.
In last year’s competition, Andrew Okey took first place for his novel Jacopo’s Contract, while Caroline Davies (The Accidental Agony Aunt) and Jacqui Pack (When I Was) won second and third place respectively. Extracts can be read on the Literary Festival website.
For eligibility criteria, submission guidelines, and details of the judging panel, please visit: farnhamliteraryfestival.co.uk/literary-writing-competition/
