In the wake of the #MeToo movement against sexual assault and harassment, a new book prize is seeking thrillers in which “no woman is beaten, stalked, sexually exploited, raped, or murdered.” Submit your manuscript to the Staunch Book Prize, the writing contest for our times.
“As violence against women in fiction reaches a ridiculous high, Staunch Book Prize invites thriller writers to keep us on the edge of our seats without resorting to the same clichés—particularly female characters who are sexually assaulted (however “necessary to the plot”) or done away with (however ingeniously),” according to the contest website.
The writing contest begins on Feb. 22, 2018, and ends on July 15, 2018. It’s open to writers of any nationality, over 18 years old. There’s an entry fee of £20. The winner will receive £2,000. Copyright will remain with the author.
Submissions must be in English. It can be:
- Not yet published.
- Traditionally published or self-published within 18 months of July 15, 2018.
- Print format or e-book, if already published.
- A translated book.
“The idea of running a new book prize that refuses to reward violence against women came as a flash of inspired frustration,” said Bridget Lawless, a screenwriter, nonfiction author, and founder of the competition. “An amazing wave of support has run behind this project from the start, bringing it to life very quickly.”
Cindy Fazzi 