Places to submit your writing this autumn

As the air turns crisp and the light softens, it’s the perfect season to settle in with your writing — and send it out into the world. This autumn, we’ve gathered a fresh list of contests and journals ready to read your words.

Good luck, writers!

Please note: This list was created to support the Writing Grove community. We’re not affiliated with these publications, so please don’t send us your submissions. Click the links to view full details and submit your work directly to the journal or contest.

Novel Excerpt Contest by The Masters Review invites writers to submit excerpts from unpublished novels or novels-in-progress that showcase a strong, distinctive voice. Winners receive $3,000 and publication in The Masters Review.

Deadline: 09 November 2025 | More Info

Firecracker Awards from the Community of Literary Magazines & Presses celebrate outstanding books published by independent presses. Each year, three $2,000 prizes are awarded for a book of poetry, a book of fiction, and a book of creative nonfiction published within the year.

Deadline: 14 November 2025 | More Info

Writer’s Digest Short Short Story Competition invites writers to showcase their storytelling skills in 1,500 words or fewer. Now in its 26th year, the competition celebrates concise, powerful fiction with the chance to win $3,000, a feature interview in Writer’s Digest magazine, and a paid trip to the Writer’s Digest Conference.

Early-Bird Deadline: 17 November 2025 | More Info