The Crime Writers’ Association

Aspiring writers

The CWA supports not only the crime-writing present, but the future of crime writing by extending a helping hand to new, unpublished writers.

Emerging Author Dagger

The Emerging Author Dagger is awarded to an unpublished fiction writer for the opening of a crime novel and a synopsis.

Competitors stand to win £500, and shortlisted entries are sent to agents and publishers.

Debuts Blog

Thinking of entering the Emerging Author Dagger?

Get tips from published authors and the judges and read the stories of those who have won or been shortlisted in the past.

Crime Writing Tips

Aimed at those aspiring to get their crime writing published, CWA members and others provide an array of information, hints and tips.

Criminal Critiques

Need to know if your crime novel is hitting the mark? Our authors assess strengths and weaknesses and advise on improvements. We critique stories, full novels and extracts such as Emerging Author Dagger entries.

Criminal Editing

Expert crime-fiction editors help you polish your writing until it shines! Get your manuscript ready for grabbing the attention of readers, agents, publishers or competition judges.

Emerging Authors

Join the Crime Writers’ Association as an Emerging Author – A new type of membership for tomorrow’s writers.

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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