Don McCauley has announced that The Authors Show® 2026 Book Cover Contest is now open for submissions. The contest, which runs from September 15 to November 15, 2026, invites authors to submit their book covers for a chance to win prizes and gain industry recognition.
Two Grand Prize winners will be selected, one in the Fiction category and one in the Nonfiction category, each receiving prize packages worth over $2000. Additionally, one winner will be chosen from each genre classification, receiving a First Place winners seal for online or print use and a 20% discount voucher from Book Cover Hub.
Covers will be evaluated by a panel of judges on various criteria, and the public can also participate by voting on the overall appeal of covers with a thumbs up. Both judges' scores and public votes are combined to determine the final score. Public voting begins on September 30 and ends on November 25, 2026. Winners will be announced in December 2026.
Full contest details and submission guidelines are available at https://wnbnetworkwest.com/book-cover-contest.
Winning a book cover contest can bring numerous benefits to authors. According to the press release, these include credibility and prestige, as winning signals to readers and industry professionals that the book meets high design standards, enhancing the author's reputation. Increased visibility is another advantage, as a winning cover can attract attention from readers, publishers, and the media. A winning cover also serves as a powerful marketing tool, helping the book stand out in a crowded marketplace and potentially increasing sales. Additionally, success in a contest can lead to networking opportunities with industry professionals, including publishers, designers, and fellow authors. Finally, recognition from a panel of judges can boost an author's confidence and motivate them to continue pursuing high standards in their work.
The Authors Show® is a professional interview podcast created in 2005 that offers participants multiple benefits that authors who are serious about marketing their work need to consider, especially inasmuch as these benefits have long lasting effects. The Authors Show broadcasts interviews on multiple channels, each featuring one individual author for a full 24 hours Monday through Thursday, and 3-day weekends, Friday through Sunday.
For authors seeking to elevate their book's profile, this contest presents a valuable opportunity to gain recognition and leverage awards as a marketing vehicle. With the combination of judge and public voting, the contest also engages a wider audience, potentially increasing a book's discoverability. As the publishing industry continues to grow more competitive, such contests can provide a significant edge in capturing reader attention and building an author's brand.
