The Crime Writers’ Association

Emerging Author Dagger Rules

Rules and Submission Guidelines Emerging Author Dagger The Emerging Author Dagger (formerly the Debut Dagger), an international competition for the opening of an adult/YA crime novel and synopsis, is aimed at debut writers. The CWA defines a de...


Traditionally Published membership

Join the CWA - Traditionally Published author membership Thank you for your interest in joining the CWA. Membership is subject to meeting the membership criteria and completing the application form does not guarantee membership. Please fill in your ...


Provisional membership

Join the CWA - Provisional membership Thank you for your interest in joining the CWA. Membership is subject to meeting the membership criteria and completing the application form does not guarantee membership. Please fill in your details below and a...


Emerging author membership

Join the CWA - Emerging author membership Thank you for your interest in joining the CWA. Membership is subject to meeting the membership criteria and completing the application form does not guarantee membership. Please fill in your details below a...


Self-published membership – Application form

Join the CWA – Self-published membership - Application form...


2024 Crime Writers’ Clinics

After the success of last year's Crime Writers' Clinics, the CWA is proud to announce the 2024 schedule of Clinics! These online events will take place from 8 October to 7 November, and are programmed and hosted by William Shaw. Tickets are £...


Crime at Hertfordshire LitFest

Crime events James Runcie: Sidney Chambers and the dangers of temptation Come and find out what Sidney Chambers is up to in the new Grantchester novel (as seen on TV) and discover our stunning new library at Hemel Hempstead Wednesday 19th April, 7...


Video submission guide

Video submission guide We are not currently running a video series. But following the success of our YouTube member videos in 2020-21, we’ll be inviting you to send in themed videos again soon. Keep an eye on Red Herrings and members' email upd...


2017 CWA Conference a huge success

The Apex Waterloo Hotel in the historic city of Edinburgh was the setting for the 2017 CWA annual conference, which was well-attended, and thoroughly enjoyed by everyone. In addition to the banquet and some fascinating and informative guest speakers,...


The Entry Process

The Entry Process There are four kinds of Dagger, differentiated by how they are nominated. See below for an explanation of the different entry processes, and who may nominate for each Dagger. Please do not hesitate to contact the Dagger Liaison Or...


Join the CWA

Become part of a thriving community of successful crime writers with invaluable support, expertise and marketing opportunities for all our members.


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