From Festival Winner to Two-Book Deal

I still can’t believe how much has happened since winning Friday Night Live writing competition at the 2025 London Festival of Writing. Mere months after the festival, I landed an agent and an international two-book deal, but my path to publication was far from straightforward and it took many years—and abandoned manuscripts—to get here.

When I found out I was a Friday Night Live (FNL) finalist, I was in a creative slump. I’d recently finished the first draft of my novel, Seven Dishes to Fall in Love, but was struggling to move forward. The voice in my head told me it would end as it always had: with my novel dying in the query trenches. So arriving at the festival brought an unexpected wave of imposter syndrome. Here I was, a top eight finalist, and I felt self-defeated rather than hopeful.

And then I heard about a writer’s wellness area at the festival run by Zoe Richards and stopped by for a chat. Zoe introduced me to the seven types of rest and helped me put into perspective everything I’d already achieved, despite the obstacles and rejections I’d faced. I carried her calm with me onto the stage that night, where I was first to read among the finalists.

I’d never read my writing in front of an audience before, let alone one this size. Over 300 people and a panel of judges—I was nervous! But as Becca Day introduced me, Jericho tutor Debi Alper leaned over and whispered, “Remember to breathe.” I took her advice, doing my best to read slowly and steadily, and enjoy being up there too!

I genuinely didn’t think I’d win. When my name was called, it took me a moment to even stand up, like my brain couldn’t compute what was happening. I couldn’t believe it. I was the winner of FNL at the 2025 London Festival of Writing and suddenly it was so clear to me—I couldn’t let my writing slump drag on any longer.

That night, winner’s certificate in hand, I looked at myself in the mirror and said, “Your dreams can come true, but there’s still work ahead.” No shortcuts, no getting excited and querying early as I’d done in the past, just a focused dedication. I set a deadline, asked my writing friends to hold me accountable, and got to work. When I finished my edits about a month later, I reached out to fellow FNL finalist, Isabel Grace, who beta read my manuscript and told me to “hit send.”

What happened next was surreal. Within days, I had over 20 requests for my full manuscript. I met with 14 agents and received 14 offers of representation. About a week after signing with my agent, we went on submission to publishers. Two weeks later, we had an eight-way auction in the US, a four-way auction in the UK, and multiple foreign territory deals. After years of struggle—of wondering if I should just give up, yet unable to actually walk away—all my dreams were suddenly coming true. And I had Friday Night Live to thank for giving me the final push I needed.

Why the Festival Experience Matters

The London Festival of Writing wasn’t just about the competition—it was about connecting with the community and continuing to hone my craft by learning from the best. The agent one-to-ones were really valuable, and I thoroughly enjoyed the sessions, but what struck me most was the vibe: a conference full of book people who just got it. 

Writing is an investment-first experience. Unlike other jobs where you’re paid to show up and can develop on the clock, writing requires commitment with no guarantees. But at the festival, everyone was there for the same reason: because they love writing. Being surrounded by other writers who share that passion, who understand the struggle, and keep going anyway was invaluable. 

Kate’s 5 Tips for Getting the Most Out of the Festival

1. Talk about your writing

At the festival, I LOVED that it was totally normal to start a conversation with, “So, what are you writing?” It’s scary to share, but these are your people. Try talking about your story, even if it’s not “pitch perfect” yet. 

2. Manage your agent one-to-one expectations

Getting an invitation to query isn’t the only marker of success. Listen to their feedback and insights—it’s all valuable.

3. Build in moments of rest

For people who spend a lot of time writing in quiet and comfortable solitude, the festival is full-on. I’m not saying hide in a corner, but do give yourself breaks when you need them.

4. Connect with your peers

Swap contact details, follow each other online, and support one another even after the festival ends. The writing community is worth its weight in gold.

5. Take notes

Whether on paper or in voice memos to yourself, make notes about what you’ve learned. It’s a stimulating weekend with a lot to glean, and you’ll want to remember it when you return to your desk.

If you’re thinking about entering the Friday Night Live competition, I’d say… go for it! You don’t even have to win to get something out of it—many writers gain recognition through the longlist, shortlist, and finalist positions. And even if you aren’t listed, it’s still great practice in putting yourself, and your work, out there. 

Who knows? This just might be a career-changing night for you, like it was for me.

If you enjoyed this story, don’t miss your chance to be part of it—grab your ticket to the London Festival of Writing and step into the room where it all begins. Friday Night Live submissions open this Thursday, so now’s the moment to put your work out there. And don’t miss Kate Emilie’s opening keynote, Some Things Are Worth Waiting For.

Loved this story? Now it’s your turn. Secure your place at the London Festival of Writing and be part of the journey from the very beginning. Friday Night Live submissions open soon, with finalists taking to the stage at the Gala Dinner on Saturday 13 June, reading live to a panel of literary professionals, with the audience deciding the winner.

And don’t miss Kate Emilie’s opening keynote, Some Things Are Worth Waiting For, a full-circle moment from last year’s winner!