Joffe Books puts seven new crime voices on its shortlist
The British prize for unagented writers of colour reaches the final selection for its 2026 edition.
Joffe Books announced a seven-project shortlist for its 2026 prize on 26 October. The competition is open to Black, Asian, Indigenous and minority ethnic writers who are British citizens or UK residents and are not represented by a literary agent. It welcomes crime in many forms, from psychological thrillers to cosy mysteries, and is designed to create a practical route into publishing. The winner, due to be revealed in November, will receive a two-book contract, £1,000, a £25,000 Audible audiobook agreement for the first title and two years of Society of Authors membership. Judges Dhonielle Clayton, Shanika Hyslop, Adam Oyebanji and Rachel Slatter will make the final choice. Beyond the cash award, the package foregrounds editorial continuity and professional support.