The 2025
prize

introducing the 2025 longlist...

The 2025 Published Novels Longlist

An impossible task you might say - to select just 14 titles from the unrepentantly funny witty novels submitted this year. But someone had to do it, and we hope you connect with some, if not all of these fearless and funny titles listed here. From domestic noir, sci fi, political landscapes, millennial angst and even murder, these writers bring joy, rage, absurdity, and truth to the page, often all at once. Thankfully, these novels prove there’s no subject too dark, weird, or wild to be tackled with wit, fun and a knowingness that can lift our spirits and reassure us at the same time.

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Kristen Arnett

The 2025 Self-Published Novels Longlist

New! This year CWIP wanted to big up those authors who did it themselves! We salute your spirit - wit is empowering and so are you for choosing to take this route. These 12 self-published novels were longlisted by Atmosphere Press for their originality, comic insight, and compelling storytelling. From time-travel and lions to stand-up comedy and spin-offs with a twist, these novels reflect the rich variety and fearless humour that make comic fiction such a joy to read. Whether delivering sharp dialogue, poignant satire, or offbeat whimsy, each of these novels finds inventive ways to explore life’s challenges with a laugh.

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Lesley Bown

The 2025 Unpublished Novels Longlist

It takes a lot of trust and courage to send off material into the unknown. But thank goodness you did. These 12 manuscripts have been longlisted by Hera for their standout comedic storytelling and commercial potential. This year’s unpublished longlist is full of sharp humour, emotional depth, and unforgettable characters - from those navigating love, grief, and generational chaos to accidental killers, and viral agony aunts. What connects them all is a distinct point of view and a gift for finding comedy in the complexities of life. Whether laugh-out-loud funny, darkly comic, or gently bittersweet, each of these stories showcases a unique voice and perspective. The breadth of talent on show makes us certain that we’ll be seeing some of these names in print very soon.

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