Writers upload full manuscripts and readers vote to form the six shortlisted entries, with two additional £10,000 Reader Prizes awarded to supporters of the winning author and the most engaged reader.

Open to entrants aged 18 and over worldwide with no publishing history or representation required, emphasizing an inclusive and innovative environment to broaden publishing opportunities.

Libraro, in partnership with Hachette UK, launches a £50,000 reader-led writing prize that lets readers help select a six-book shortlist from submitted manuscripts.

The grand prize package totals £50,000 for the winner, including £30,000 cash and £20,000 for marketing, plus a book deal with Hachette UK, plus two £10,000 reader prizes for the referring reader and the most active participant.

Supporting organizations include Exiled Writers Ink, Frontline Club, London Writers’ Salon, NAWE, New Writing North, Pen to Print, The Reading Agency, Writers & Artists, and Writing West Midlands.

Open to adults and crossover YA fiction written in English, worldwide, regardless of publishing history or representation; entrants receive feedback and shortlisted authors get professional support for packaging and formatting.

Entrants can receive constructive feedback; shortlisted authors receive professional support to prepare submissions for final judging.

The prize aims to democratize publishing by giving readers a direct role in discovering new talent and expanding diversity in published work, reflecting a broader shift toward self-publishing success stories.

Anticipated impact includes widening access to opportunity, nurturing new talent, and diversifying published fiction through a reader-driven discovery process.

Entries open on 19 January and close on 15 February, with reader engagement from 19 February to 20 March; shortlist announced on 21 April and the winner on 13 May.

Judges Elly Griffiths, Deborah Maclaren and Zubs J Malik will evaluate the six shortlisted manuscripts for fresh voices and potential bestseller status, with support from LoveReading, Frontline Club, New Writing North and The Reading Agency.

David Roche, Libraro chairman, describes the prize as a democratic pathway for stories to be found and shared, backed by LoveReading’s community.