2026 First Chapter Contest

Contest Rules

1. Entries must be submitted via online by May 02, 2026 at midnight CST to Netwofirstchapter@gmail.com 

‍2. The combined word count of your entry must not exceed 2,750 words including synopsis, title, subtitle, footnotes, etc.

3. Manuscripts must be original, unpublished, and not already accepted for publication. Novels based on previously published short stories are not eligible.

4. Writers may submit multiple entries; separate entry forms and payment should accompany each submission. 

5. Awards will be presented Saturday June 06,2026 at the annual conference. You do not have to attend the conference to win.

6. Entry Fee: $10.00.  Payment may be made via QR code below

Arrangements for other payment options (such as check or cash) may be made with Jeanette McDermott the Contest Coordinator. Checks may be mailed to NETWO P.O. Box 962, Mt. Pleasant, Texas 75455. 

Formatting Instructions for All Entries

1. Entries must be typed and double-spaced. Use 12 pt. Times New Roman font with 1-inch margins.

2. Each story must have a separate cover sheet sent as a separate attachment containing only: 

  • Title of submission
  • Author's name
  • Author's complete address
  • Author's telephone number
  • Author's email address
  • Story word count (Cannot exceed 2750 words including synopsis, title, subtitle, footnotes, etc.)

3. Include a header with only title and page number only.

4. Your synopsis should appear on the first page, before the opening pages of the manuscript. Judges will read this first. (Consider allocating approximately 250-300 words to the synopsis. However, you may submit a long synopsis and a shorter chapter entry. If the total combined word count of the synopsis and manuscript should not exceed 2,750 words.

5. Your synopsis should include the title of your manuscript in all caps (LIKE THIS).

6. OPTIONAL Judge’s Note (does not count toward 2750 word count):

  • 100 word Max
  • Place at the end of submission with words in bold type: "Note to the judge" above it
  • Optional notes will NOT be considered part of the total word count.
  • Note will not influence score in any way.
  • Soley meant as an opportunity to ask the judges who will critique your work any burning question you have, or provide BRIEF addtional information about the submission.
  • NOT necessary unless you have a compelling reason to include. ‍

‍8. Author’s name must not appear anywhere in the document.  

Failure to abide by the contest rules and formatting guidelines will result in disqualification and forfeiture of entry fee. 

For any questions regarding formatting or any contest-related issue email Jeanette McDermott at netwofirstchapter@gmail.com  

Judges’ score sheets will be returned to the author.
Judges will remain anonymous.

‍

  • PRIZES
    • $100 First Place
    • $75 Second Place
    • $50 Third Place
  • FEEDBACK EXPERIENCE
  • PROFESSIONAL JUDGES
  • ENCOURAGEMENT

Deadline: May 2, 2026 CST

$10 Entry Fee per entry