Contests & Giveaways

Indie Author Contest

CLOSED

Swords and Dragons Fantasy Author Contest

Are you an aspiring author dreaming of seeing your story in print? Forge Publishing is thrilled to announce our Swords and Dragons Fantasy Author Contest — an incredible opportunity for one talented writer to win a traditional publishing contract and launch their career as a published author!

We believe in the power of words and the voices of new authors waiting to be heard.

Theme

  • Swords and dragons.

  • Other fantasy elements, tropes and themes can be included!

What You’ll Win

  • A traditional publishing contract with Forge Publishing.

  • Professional editorial guidance to perfect your manuscript.

  • Full publication and distribution of your book.

How to Enter

  1. Submit your unpublished fantasy manuscript (70,000–120,000 words).

  2. Include a brief synopsis.

  3. Deadline for entries: 28th February, 2025.

Eligibility

  • Open to unpublished authors aged 18 and older.

  • Manuscripts must be original, unpublished, and not under contract elsewhere.

Judging Criteria

Our team of editors will evaluate submissions based on originality, narrative quality, character development, and overall potential.

Terms and Conditions

  • Open to authors aged 18 or older.

  • Employees of Forge Publishing, their families, and affiliates are not eligible to participate.

  • Submissions must be original and must not infringe on any copyright or intellectual property rights.

  • Manuscripts must not have been published, self-published, or under contract with another publisher.

  • Word count: 70,000–120,000 words. Accepted genres:

    • Fantasy (and other subgenres, including urban and epic fantasy)

  • Entries must be submitted by 28th February, 2025; late submissions will not be considered.

  • By entering, participants grant Forge Publishing the non-exclusive right to review and consider their work for publication.

  • The winner will be offered a standard traditional publishing contract, with terms disclosed upon selection.

  • Entrants retain copyright unless they agree to the terms of the publishing contract upon winning.

  • Forge Publishing reserves the right not to select a winner if submissions do not meet quality standards.

  • The winner agrees to work exclusively with Forge Publishing to prepare the manuscript for publication.

  • Forge Publishing is not liable for technical issues preventing entries from being received.

  • Runners-up may receive an offer for a hybrid publishing contract.

  • The contest may be amended or canceled at Forge Publishing's discretion.