Entry Information

Theme: The spark of Ember and the growth of Vine, which means let your imagination go wild (seriously whatever lights your fire)! Show us what inspires you, what makes you grow, or where you want to expand. Write about growing up, growing old, or maybe growing excited or tired. Tell us a story that makes you smile or cry.

Word Count: 3,000 words or less.

Cost : $30 to enter. $5 discount with coupon code: EVEarlyBird (expires March 1, 2026). Story Summit discount available.

**Secure your slot now and submit by April 1.

Guidelines

Entry guidelines and information are available here: https://emberandvinepress.com/writing-contest/guidelines/

Frequently asked questions: https://emberandvinepress.com/writing-contest/faqs/

Entry registers writer to the Ember & Vine Newsletter.

**Buy your entry now and submit your work by April 1.

Short Stories

The Ember & Vine Press staff will choose two short story winners selected based on publishability. Ten to fifteen additional stories will be selected for publication.

Short-Form Essays

The Ember & Vine Press staff will choose two short-form essay winners selected based on publishability. Ten to fifteen additional essays will be selected for publication.

Awards

Awards in each category include:

Judges’ Choice ($200). Plus publication

Judges’ Runner-Up ($100). Plus publication

An additional ten to fifteen entries will be published in the collection. Each author will be given one copy of the anthology and the ability to purchase more at a discounted price.

**Buy your entry now and submit your work by April 1.