Congratulations to everyone who entered The Marlowe and Christie Novel Prize! The standard was amazing and we are so grateful to all those who trusted us with their words. Today we are releasing our shortlist, which is divided into Commended and Highly Commended Entries. The ten best pieces from the Highly Commended list will be forwarded to the agents and Patrick Gleeson for feedback and further consideration for the cash prize. The Shortlist is attached here on Marlowe and Christie Skool. Congratulations again, everyone!

Full list of Commended and Highly Commended pieces will be posted here and by email late today. Good luck all and thanks to everyone for trusting us with their work.

The book I submitted for the competition is now a best seller! The Right Members Club hit number one in political humour last week and is still there (as I type) - it also briefly crested to number one in Comedy on Amazon as well. But was quickly thwarted by John Robins new book! Just want to share it as I'm ecstatic! It also is trying to combat the mental hate and division in our country. So local elections probably played a role! Cheers everyone, happy Saturday!

Blue Pencil Agency First Novel Award 2026 The international writing competition is open to unrepresented and unpublished authors for a novel in any adult fiction genre. Winner: £1,500 + Agent Introduction Runner up: £500 + Agent Introduction. Closes 31st May 2026.https://bluepencilagency.com/blue-pencil-agency-annual-competitions/bpa-first-novel-award-2026/

Is the suspense of waiting for the rest of the commended list driving anyone else out of their minds? With such a flimsy deadline for the full winners list, I am beside myself with anxious anticipation and it is stressing me out. Anyone else with me on this? Or are you just shaking it off?