Welcome to the Thriller Short Story Competition for CEA Beneath the Shadows, where we delve into the suspenseful and spine-chilling world of thrillers! This anthology invites writers to craft gripping tales that keep readers on the edge of their seats, exploring the dark corners of human nature, hidden secrets, and the unexpected twists that define this genre.
We’re looking for stories that pulse with tension, whether they involve psychological drama, high-stakes mysteries, or sinister plots lurking in the shadows. Your story should immerse readers in an unforgettable thrill ride, packed with intrigue and emotional intensity.
Submissions start in January and close on 31 July of each year, with selected stories earning their place in this electrifying collection. This anthology is set to be published toward the end of each year.
Do you have what it takes to uncover what lies beneath the shadows? Join our Thriller Short Story Competition and share your thrilling masterpiece!
CEA Short Story Competition Rules
Before submitting your entry for the Thriller Short Story Competition, please ensure you are familiar with the full CEA competition rules, eligibility criteria, and submission guidelines. These can be found on our dedicated CEA Short Story Competitions Rules page.
This page contains all the important information you need to know, including:
- Eligibility requirements
- Submission guidelines
- Submission process and fees
- Criteria for selection
- Prizes, rights, and royalties
We encourage all writers to review the rules carefully to ensure their Thriller Short Story Competition submission meets the requirements. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at [email protected].
Subgenres of Thriller
Thriller stories are designed to keep readers on the edge of their seats, with gripping tension and high-stakes drama. Below are some examples of thriller subgenres you may explore for your submission. Please note, this is not an exhaustive list, and we encourage you to innovate within the bounds of the genre.
Examples of Thriller Subgenres
- Psychological Thriller: Stories that delve into the complexities of the human mind, often exploring manipulation, obsession, or paranoia.
- Crime Thriller: Suspenseful tales focusing on criminal activity, investigations, or heists.
- Legal Thriller: Intense dramas centered on courtroom battles and the justice system.
- Espionage Thriller: Spy stories involving covert operations, international intrigue, and political stakes.
- Action Thriller: Fast-paced narratives with physical danger, chase scenes, and life-or-death scenarios.
- Supernatural Thriller: Stories that incorporate otherworldly elements, blending suspense with the paranormal.
- Techno-Thriller: Suspense driven by advanced technology, cyber warfare, or futuristic conflicts.
Thrillers thrive on tension and suspense. Whether you’re crafting a chilling psychological game or a high-octane action sequence, focus on keeping readers hooked and invested in the story’s outcome.
What Writers Should Focus On
The Thriller Short Story Competition challenges writers to create suspenseful, edge-of-your-seat tales that keep readers hooked until the final reveal. Here are some tips and insights to guide your writing and make your submission unforgettable:
1. Build Suspense Early
- Hook your readers from the very beginning with an intriguing premise, a shocking event, or unanswered questions.
- Maintain tension throughout the story, gradually escalating stakes to keep readers engaged.
2. Create Unpredictable Twists
- A great thriller thrives on unexpected turns. Lead readers down one path, then surprise them with a twist they didn’t see coming.
- Ensure your twists feel earned and align with the logic of your story.
3. Develop Complex Characters
- Craft protagonists and antagonists with depth—characters should have strengths, flaws, and compelling motivations.
- Explore moral ambiguity, where even the “good” characters face difficult, ethically gray choices.
4. Maintain a Pacy Plot
- Keep the story moving with concise, impactful scenes that drive the narrative forward.
- Avoid unnecessary backstory or exposition that slows the pace.
5. Atmosphere and Tone
- Create an immersive atmosphere that enhances the tension—use vivid descriptions, eerie settings, or foreboding elements.
- Ensure the tone remains consistent, whether dark and brooding or sharp and intense.
6. Use Psychological Depth
- Thrillers often explore the human mind. Delve into paranoia, fear, and obsession to add layers of complexity to your story.
- Show how your characters’ mental states influence their actions and decisions.
7. Nail the Ending
- Deliver a satisfying conclusion that ties up loose ends but leaves readers with something to think about.
- Avoid predictable endings; aim for a resolution that lingers in the reader’s mind.
Focus on crafting a story that grips readers, keeps them guessing, and leaves a lasting impression. Let your creativity shine as you immerse us in the suspenseful world of the Thriller Short Story Competition.
Submission Form and Fees
To submit your entry for the Thriller Short Story Competition, please complete the form linked below. This form is required for all submissions and helps us process entries efficiently.
Submission Fees
The following submission fees apply based on your location:
- South Africa: R75 per entry
- United States: $25 USD per entry
- Europe: €25 EUR per entry
- Australia: $30 AUD per entry
- United Kingdom: £20 GBP per entry
Please read the CEA Competitions page to understand the costs and rules.
Payment Process
After completing the Thriller Short Story Competition submission form, we will contact you to arrange payment. Payment methods include but aren’t limited to:
- EFT (Electronic Funds Transfer)
- Tymebank payment by Pick n Pay (South Africa)
- PayPal
- Payoneer
Please note that the submission fee is non-refundable, as it covers the administrative costs of evaluating and processing entries for the anthology.
Thriller Short Story Competition Submission Form
Enter the Thriller Short Story Competition Today!
The Thriller Short Story Competition is your chance to craft gripping tales that keep readers on the edge of their seats. Dive into the world of suspense, unexpected twists, and thrilling narratives as you contribute to the electrifying collection of CEA Beneath the Shadows.
Looking to Publish Your Thriller Novel?
If you have a thrilling novel ready to captivate audiences, consider submitting it for publication! Celenic Earth Publications is dedicated to helping writers bring their suspenseful stories to life and into the hands of eager readers. Visit our Thriller Novel Submission Page to learn more and submit your manuscript today.