Curtis Brown Discoveries competition 2027

Open now:

Discoveries 2027 is now open for submissions!

We’re delighted to once again partner with the Women’s Prize Trust, the Curtis Brown Group and Audible to run Discoveries, the writing development programme for unpublished and unagented female novelists. From today, women writers currently residing in the UK, Ireland and the Channel Islands are invited to submit the first 10,000 words of their novels-in-progress across any genre of adult fiction. Enter by 11 Jan 2027.

Discoveries 2027 judging panel, from left: Kate Mosse, Oyinkan Braithwaite, Anna Davis, Ciara Finan and Ela Lee.

The prize doesn’t require writers to have finished a novel – only to have started one – and it is free to enter. We're looking for writing that shows real potential, not necessarily polished drafts. We would also like to encourage applications from writers who have previously submitted to the prize and have continued working on their stories.

The winner will be offered the chance to take part in our bespoke creative writing course, personalised mentorship packages, an offer of literary representation from the Curtis Brown Group and a bursary of £5,000 from the Women’s Prize Trust.

Learn more

Attend a free Discoveries 2027 webinar | From Draft to Debut

Hear reflections and insights from Discoveries writers India-Rose Bower, Rukky Brume, Niamh Ní Mhaoileoin and Beena Nadeem in this online event chaired by Women’s Prize shortlisted author and 2026 Discoveries judge, Nussaibah Younis. Learn about their debut novels and writing journeys, and how Discoveries supported them along the way.You can register for free. Event takes place on 22 September, 7-8pm.

Sign up