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The Writers' Advice Centre for children's books have launched their 2009 writing competition but this year they are not looking for a short story but a first chapter. Louise Jordan explains: "What we are looking for is a first chapter that really grabs the attention and makes us want to read the rest of the book. It's that 'I can't put it down' factor that we're after. " Your book can be for any age group and the maximum word count is 1000 words - for younger children aim for a much shorter word count. Louise added: "There are no rules on presentation except to say that your competition entry must reach us in exactly the same state as it would if you, yourself, were sending it out to a real publisher." You can include a cover letter and you should also explain where you see your book fitting in the current market, however do not submit illustrations or descriptions of illustrations. Entry is open to all ages with a ??5 fee with a deadline of August 31 2009. The winner will receive ??100, a signed copy of Louise's excellent book 'How to Write for Children & Get Published' and a free editorial and marketing assessment of your book with the chance to have your work submitted to a mainstream publisher (if the author agrees.) One runner-up will receive a signed copy of How to Write for Children & Get Published plus a free professional editorial & marketing assessment of their entry. All entrants will be offered the chance to have their work critiqued at a reduced rate. As I've mentioned before I won the centre's 2007 short story competition and Louise has been really encouraging about my writing. She interviewed me for Writers' Forum and submitted my Dr Midas book to Puffin. The manuscript assessment was also really helpful and I always keep the tips in mind when writing short stories. I would really recommend having a go at this competition. For full details visit www.writersadvice.co.uk/

"Do you have a fresh, vibrant, sassy voice and a passion for sexy alpha heroes? Can you write sparky dialogue, create great sensual tension and hot love-scenes?" Blimey! That's the challenge for Mills & Boon's Modern Heat series competition. The winning author will receive an editor for a year who will offer advice and guidance on contest entry, plus subsequent manuscript submissions. Two runners up will be given critiques of their first chapter and an editorial consultation by phone. Authors need to email their first chapter (no more than 5,000 words) and synopsis (no more than two pages) of their novel which must be aimed at Modern Heat and must not have been previously submitted to Harlequin Mills & Boon. Modern Heat novels are 50,000 words long. Entrants must be aged 18 and over and one entry per person to be received by September 15th 2008. More details on how to apply and helpful tips online at www.iheartpresents.com