Phenomenal First Pages Contest – Guest Editor Edition

Hey, wonderful
writerly people!

It’s time for Phenomenal First Pages, our monthly critique contest. So, if you need help with the beginning of your novel, today’s the day to enter for a chance to win professional feedback.

The contest is now closed. We will notify the winner soon!

One winner will receive feedback on their first 20 pages!

Entering is easy. All you need to do is leave your contact information on this entry form (or click the graphic below). If you are a winner, we’ll notify you and explain how to send us your pages.

Contest Details

• This is a 24-hour contest, so enter ASAP.
• Make sure your contact information on the entry form is correct.
• One winner will be drawn. We will email you if you win and let you know how to submit.
• Please have your first 20 pages ready in case your name is selected. Format it with 1-inch margins, double-spaced, and 12pt Times New Roman font.
•  You’ll need to supply a synopsis (a rough one is fine) so Stuart has context for his feedback.

The editor you’ll be working with:

Stuart Wakefield

With 26 years in theatre, broadcast media, and coaching under my belt, I have a visceral understanding of what makes stories work, and I’d like to share it with you because writing a novel doesn’t always have to be difficult and daunting, especially if it’s your first time. Understanding the process, getting started, and seeing it all come together can seem like an impossible mountain to climb.

As an Author Accelerator Certified Book Coach, I’m passionate about helping new writers craft stories with passion and purpose, momentum and meaning. I have an MA (Distinction) in Professional Writing, and my debut novel, Body of Water, was one of ten books long-listed for the Polari First Book Prize. My latest novel, Behind the Seams, was a 2021 BookLife Fiction Prize Contest semifinalist.

My first TV show aired on the UK’s Channel 4 in 2023.

So, if you have a story in your heart, just waiting to be shared with the world, I’m here to offer you guidance and support from developing your story right through to pursuing publication. You can find my website, blog, and free self-editing cheat sheet right here: https://linktr.ee/thebookcoach

Sign Up for Notifications!

If you’d like to be notified about our monthly Phenomenal First Pages contest, subscribe to blog notifications in this sidebar. 

Good luck, everyone. We can’t wait to see who wins!

PS: To amp up your first page, grab our  First Pages checklist from One Stop for Writers. For more help with story opening elements, visit this Mother Lode of First Page Resources.