In 2025 the entries in the First Novel Prize are judged by two amazing publishing professionals on the lookout for new talent to recognise and promote.
‘I am thrilled to be partnering this year with the First Novel Prize as a judge. The prize is such a brilliant opportunity for emerging writers to showcase their talent, and as an agent I love nothing more than the feeling I get when reading a truly brilliant book from a new voice in fiction for the first time, so I cannot wait to read the entries!’
Rachel Neely, Co-judge and Literary Agent at Mushens Entertainment
‘As an editor, I’m motivated by discovering exciting new voices and knowing that there are readers out there in the world who are ready and waiting to be discovered. The First Novel Prize offers an invaluable opportunity for new writers to have their work recognised, and I can’t wait to read the entries for this year’s Prize.’
Imogen Nelson, Senior Commissioning Editor, Transworld (an imprint of Penguin Random House UK)
