Word Kitchen has announced that the annual Exeter Novel Prize is now open for submissions.

This prestigious prize welcomes entries in English from all over the world, and is open to all authors who are without representation by a literary agent at the closing date, whether or not they have previously been published.

The shortlist and winner will be chosen by Hellie Ogden, head of the book department at WME Agency London.

First prize will receive £1000, with five finalists receiving £100. And, new for 2027, the highest placed entry from an EX postcode will receive a £200 EXcellence award.

To enter, writers must submit a synopsis and the opening 10,000 words of their novel. Writers may also request an appraisal report providing carefully considered feedback.

There is an entry fee of £23, with a small number of £10 bursaries available.

Writers must be 18+ to enter, and the deadline for submissions is the 31st of January 2027.

Please read all information, eligibility criteria and submission details carefully before applying. All of this information can be found on this webpage.