About Superlative
est. 2020
Superlative, The Literary Journal, is edited by Ross Turner, Gemma Mainwaring, Rachel Fennell, Daniel Chesmore and Holly Joyce, illustrated by Orlaith Stratford, and marketed by Hannah Darby.
We publish quality, innovative work by emerging short story writers and poets, in order to promote new, developing authors and the art of the short story and poetry to readers worldwide. We are delighted with every piece we publish, but our main aim is to nurture emerging talent and newly-established writers, to keep writing alive for future generations.
We take great pride in literary loyalty, and endeavour to give our authors the best possible experience, promoting them as widely and fully as we are able. Our online journal is available to read for free.
There is no set theme for Superlative's open submissions, nor for the monthly feature competitions.
We accept work of any genre, voice, and style.
Superlative's annual competition schedule is:
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Submissions accepted: 01 January - 31 August
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Judging: September
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Longlist Contacted & Announced: October
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Shortlist Contacted & Announced: November
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Winners Contacted & Announced: December
The theme for Superlative's 2026 annual competitions is GROWTH
Awards & Nominations
Liu Sit, Superlative's 2020 New Beginnings Short Story Competition Winner.
Lui's children's book, Land of the Last Wildcat, selected as Waterstone's May 2025 Children's Book of the Month.
Faraaz Mahomed's short story Mockingbirds
Published in Superlative's 2020 New Beginnings Issue
Nominated for the AKO Caine Prize for African Writing
Liz Ainsbury's short story Dream
Published in Superlative's 2021 Scapes Issue
Nominated for the Pen America Short Story Prize for Emerging Writers
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Meet The Team
Ross
Founder & Editor-in-Chief
I am a creative and critical writer, editor, and private tutor. I was in the Royal Air Force Reserves from 2014-2021, first as a Royal Air Force Police Officer, and then as a Media Operations Specialist. I am currently completing my PhD in Creative Writing at York St John's University.
I founded Superlative because I wanted to provide a platform for emerging writers, and work closely with them to help develop their writing.
I'm looking for intriguing, well-crafted submissions that discuss big topics by saying little things. I like: clean, crisp prose; close, clever attention to detail; interesting settings; and complex, edgy characters.
Gemma
Editor
Hi! I'm Gemma!
I studied Creative and Critical Writing at the University of Gloucestershire, and currently work for the university.
I also run my own business, creating original artwork and fan merchandise, called Ethereal Night Creations.
Of course, I'm looking for unique, innovative writing, but even more I'm looking for evocative and moving pieces that really make me feel something.
Rachel
Editor
My name is Rachel and I am a Creative Writing graduate with an addiction to creativity.
After leaving university, I found my stride as a coordinator for the world’s longest-running Literature Festival, and not just for the free books.
I’m looking for heartfelt and imaginative stories that make me think, wow, I wish I’d thought of that!
Dan
Editor
Hi! I'm Daniel.
Breaker of horses and men, Scourge of the Blight Town, Slayer of Meier Link, 1997 West Brindlethorpe spelling champion.
Currently a university lecturer in Japan and academic editor. I’ve gone down the rabbit hole of wired fiction and cyberpunk.
Holly
Editor
Hi, I’m Holly – a book loving Oxford Brookes English Literature graduate with a soft spot for poetry and a growing obsession with thought-provoking fiction.
I spend most of my time with my nose in a book, but when I come up for air, I’m usually baking something sweet, lifting something heavy, or writing book reviews with far too many exclamation marks.
I believe in strong coffee, good stories and the magic of well-placed words.
Orlaith
Illustrator
I am a UK based illustrator, aiming to become a tattoo artist, I focus more on character and environmental concepts. Inspired by gaming and movies, fantasy and kookie aspects are always a large part of my work.
You can find more of my work through Instagram: @empoui
I’m excited to bring Superlative a unique consistent look throughout the next upcoming years.
Hannah
Marketing Executive
Hi, I’m Hannah!
I hold a postgraduate degree in Marketing from the University of Gloucestershire. When I’m not working, I love immersing myself in the world of Skyrim - whether that’s exploring its landscapes in-game or reading books inspired by its rich fantasy themes.
I’m passionate about blending creativity with curiosity, both in my professional projects and personal interests.
Kelly
Barketing Assistant
Hello! My name is Kelly! I'm a Staffordshire Bull Terrier crossed with a Boxer; I'm adorable and I know it, with a surprisingly strong grasp of complex punctuation.
I spend most of my time eating, sleeping, walking, and asking for cuddles.
Don't be fooled – I'm the brains behind this operation.