Ed and Amanda reveal the wildcards, shortlist and WINNER of the October 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction featuring the anti-prompt: Break the rule, “Show, don’t tell.”
Who will take home the AU$1,500 first prize and see their name emblazoned on the coveted Not Quite Write Prize trophy?
Ed and Amanda reveal the 40 members of the October 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction longlist, featuring the anti-prompt: Break the rule, “Show, don’t tell.”
First, we kick off with a deep dive into competition stats. Then stay tuned as we answer listener questions. We’ll shoutout the best takes on the prompts, and some of our favourite titles and lines.
Join us, as we stick the boot in for this very looonnnggg kiss goodbye to the Anti-Prompt!
Ding-dong, the anti-prompt is dead! Ed and Amanda reveal the new Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction prompt format. We’ll explain how the new Team-based competition structure will work, and reveal the brand-new prizes up for grabs in 2026 and beyond!
Somebody call Mathemachicken: the math ain’t mathin’!
That’s right, Ed and Amanda have called it early, prematurely celebrating 100 combined episodes and “bonus” episodes of the Not Quite Write Podcast and Not Quite Write Interviews in “regular” episode #23!
We’ll start by dredging up the distant past to reveal how and where we first met, and how the podcast came to be. From there, we hope you’ll indulge us as we revisit some of our favourite moments from the first three years of the Not Quite Write Podcast. It’s been a wild ride!
A huge thanks to our devoted listeners for being there with us through the highest of highs and lowest of… brows.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Hand Over Hand by Marina R. M. Lane.
This story appeared in the July 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “use active voice”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of The Teapot is Haunted by Eilish Forwells.
This story appeared in the July 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “use active voice”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of The Tapestry of You by Natalie Bucsko.
This story appeared in the July 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “use active voice”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Cleansing Fire by Exeter Stevens.
This story appeared in the July 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “use active voice”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Agent Jackson’s Action Faction by MJ McElhaney.
This story appeared in the July 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “use active voice”.
Ed and Amanda reveal the wildcards, shortlist and WINNER of the July 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction featuring the anti-prompt: Break the rule, “use active voice.”
Engage in some active listening as we put on our best passive voices to read the Top 6 stories aloud!
Who will take home the AU$1,500 first prize and see their name emblazoned on the coveted Not Quite Write Prize trophy?
In this bumper episode, Ed and Amanda reveal the 40 members of the July 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction longlist, featuring the anti-prompt: Break the rule, “use active voice.”
First, we kick off with a deep dive into competition stats. Then stay tuned as we answer listener questions. We’ll shoutout the best takes on the prompts, and some of our favourite titles and lines.
So, crack out that origami paper and get folding; this ep’s gonna be lit!
What do James Joyce, Adolescence, and ‘vajankles’ have in common? This episode of the Not Quite Write podcast, of course!
In this episode, we fully embrace our own juvenile tendencies as we indulge in some highly literary toilet humour.
We also open the mailbag to answer your burning questions and share our erotic fiction and TV show recommendations, before elevating the brow in our discussion of the TV series Adolescence.
But the real question is: who let these guys have wine? Listen as Ed and Amanda crack open the bottles a little too early and race to the bottom in the most entertaining way possible.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Beachmasters by Justin Kramasz.
This story appeared in the April 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “kill your darlings”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Beachmasters by Justin Kramasz.
This story appeared in the April 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “kill your darlings”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of The Silence, the Sea, and the Burning Stars by Alexandria Bellani.
This story appeared in the April 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “kill your darlings”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Leaking Compartments by Daredevil Critique – ‘Leaking Compartments’ by Mohnam/Kurosh.
This story appeared in the April 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “kill your darlings”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of At Least it’s not real Diarrhoea by Sarah Kennedy.
This story appeared in the April 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “kill your darlings”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Grimoire She Wrote by SJ Snyder.
This story appeared in the April 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “kill your darlings”.
Ed and Amanda reveal the wildcards, shortlist and WINNER of the April 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction featuring the anti-prompt: Break the rule, “Kill your darlings.”
Sit back and enjoy as we read the 6 shortlisted stories that got the SEAL of approval to feature in our annual print anthology!
Who will take home the AU$1,500 first prize and see their name emblazoned on the coveted Not Quite Write Prize trophy?
Ed and Amanda reveal the 40 members of the April 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction longlist, featuring the anti-prompt: Break the rule, “Kill your darlings.”
First, we kick off with a deep dive into competition stats. Then stay tuned as we answer listener questions. We’ll shoutout the best takes on the prompts, and some of our favourite titles and lines.
So WIPE those schedules and settle in for another looooonglist episode!
Blake Snyder told writers to ‘Save the Cat,’ but is this advice credible, or was Blake Snyder just a talented salesman? In Get Rec’d, Ed and Amanda examine his 1994 kid’s film, ‘Blank Check,’ for the answer.
For the flash enthusiasts, we also delve into how Blake Snyder’s screenwriting advice can be applied to the short fiction format.
Also in this episode, we touch on the line between plagiarism and homage, and deliver an important update for Not Quite Prize entrants.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of It’s a Fool’s Game by Eilish Forwells.
This story appeared in the January 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “write what you know”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Say the Words by Stephanie Hewat S.A. Braden.
This story appeared in the January 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “write what you know”.
It’s hot (and a little unhinged) in herre this episode, as Ed and Amanda plumb the depths of Garth Marenghi’s Darkplace.
But first: Monster Sex! Why does this billion-dollar industry have the women screaming “More!”?
For the flash fiction enthusiasts, we’ll unpack genre fiction and why it’s hard to pull off in 500 words.
Plus, stick around after the credits for a behind-the-scenes taste of the cancellable conversation that usually makes the cutting room floor. It’ll even have Nelly singing, “Good gracious!”
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of I Remember by Stephanie Hewat Simmonds.
This story appeared in the January 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “write what you know”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Jesus, et al. Hereby Demand Ms. Paula Green to Cease and Desist All Invocations of Jesus, the Holy Spirit, and “Big Daddy God” by Holly Sadowski.
This story appeared in the January 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “write what you know”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Covid ’28 – Case-study (LS0977/B) – The impact of The Open Door programme on infected females displaying hysteria by Dez Veares.
This story appeared in the January 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “write what you know”.
Ed and Amanda reveal the wildcards, shortlist and winner of the January 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction featuring the anti-prompt: Break the rule, “Write what you know.”
Sit back and enjoy as we read the 6 a-door-able shortlisted stories that will feature in our annual print anthology.
Who will take home the AU$1,500 first prize and see their name emblazoned on the coveted Not Quite Write Prize trophy?
Ed and Amanda reveal the 40 members of the January 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction longlist, featuring the anti-prompt: Break the rule, “Write what you know.”
First, we kick off with a deep dive into key competition stats. Then stay tuned as we answer listener questions. We’ll shoutout the best takes on the prompts, and some of our favourite titles and lines.
… brrring it on!
Entries are now open for the Not Quite Write Prize for FLESH Fiction. The competition is free to enter and calls for erotic stories of no more than 1,500 words written in response to the following theme: “Making the unsexy irresistible.”
Capitalism and art don’t mix… unless you’re Taylor Swift! We start with a look at Self-publishing (Taylor’s Version) following the news that the Pop artist’s self-published Eras Tour book sold nearly a million copies in its first week. From there, we explore Ed’s hidden agenda to lure more men into the literary world (whether they like it or not!) Finally, in Get Rec’d, Amanda has once again neglected to check herself before she rec’d herself, so we shine an uncomfortable spotlight on her own middle grade adventure story, ‘Go Big or Go Home’. Read the New York Times article ‘The […]
We indulge in a little self-Daredevil action with dramatised readings of Ed and Amanda’s own stories and a little one-on-one tough love, before talk turns to the NanoWriMo A.I. controversy and our cancellable thoughts on the matter.
In Get Rec’d we turn the microscope on the film, ‘May December’, and its ties to the true story of convicted pedophile, May Kay Letourneau.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of What Cassandra Saw by Elysia Rourke.
This story appeared in the October 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “avoid head-hopping”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Home Sweet Home by Christy Hartman.
This story appeared in the October 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “avoid head-hopping”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Talking Heads: The Tale of Johnson & Johnson by Holly Sadowski.
This story appeared in the October 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “avoid head-hopping”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Bonus: Daredevil Critique – ‘A non-consensual truth’ by Sarah Kennedy by Sarah Kennedy.
This story appeared in the October 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “avoid head-hopping”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of The Three Lies and One Lifetime of Rucha Shah by Nina Miller.
This story appeared in the October 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “avoid head-hopping”.
Join us as we reveal the shortlist and winner of the October 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction featuring the anti-prompt: Break the rule “avoid head-hopping.”
We’ll lie-ven up the countdown by reading the shortlisted stories from number six all the way to the top spot.
Who will take home the AU$1,000 first prize and see their name emblazoned on the coveted Not Quite Write Prize trophy?
In this special bonus episode, Ed and Amanda reveal the 40 members of the October 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction longlist, featuring the anti-prompt: Break the rule “head-hopping.”
First, we kick off with a deep dive into key competition stats. Then stay tuned as we answer listener questions. We’ll shoutout the best takes on the prompts, and some of our favourite titles and lines.
It’s gonna be lots of fun, and that’s no LIE!
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Dazzling Diamonds, Heroic Horses and Pink Panties by Dez Veares.
This story appeared in the July 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “avoid purple prose”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Roses are Red by Vroni Kiefer.
This story appeared in the July 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “avoid purple prose”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Who Do I Have to Speak to About a Redo on the Prophecy by Holly Sadowski.
This story appeared in the July 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “avoid purple prose”.
In this STRICTLY ADULTS ONLY episode, Ed and Amanda venture into the world of erotic fiction only to be “slammed in the niche” by Chuck Tingle.
Ed reveals the seminal event that sparked his interest in spicy fiction, and we ask, what motivates people to read erotica? Does it tickle their fancy or just their funny bone?
Keeping it classy, we round out our discussion with a look at the statistics from Elle Griffin’s viral article, ‘No One Buys Books,’ and lament the current state of “venture capitalist” publishing.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Best Laid Plans by S J Snyder.
This story appeared in the July 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “avoid purple prose”.
Listen in to our on-air critique of Thessily and Sylsiff by Jay Scott as we unpack the good, the bad and the ugly for your voyeuristic pleasure.
This story appeared in the July 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “avoid purple prose”.
Join us as we reveal the shortlist and winner of the July 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction featuring the anti-prompt: Break the rule “avoid purple prose.”
We’ll spice up the countdown by reading the shortlisted from No. 6 up to No. 1.
Who will steal the show and take home the AU$1,000 first prize and coveted Not Quite Write Prize trophy?
In this special bonus episode, Ed and Amanda reveal the 40 members of the July 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction longlist, featuring the anti-prompt: Break the rule “avoid purple prose.”
First, we kick off with a deep dive into key competition stats. Then stay tuned as we answer listener questions and turn the spotlight on common flash fiction tropes. We’ll shoutout the best takes on the prompts, and some of our favourite titles and lines.
It’s a vertiTABLE smorgasbord of flash fiction goodness!
Ed and Amanda are confronted with Frankenstein’s P*rnstar as we grapple with the Oscar-winning movie ‘Poor Things’. Is it a feminist masterpiece, or is it simply yet another vehicle for the male gaze?
We also tackle book-to-film adaptations and why book lovers sometimes struggle to appreciate the onscreen version of their beloved novels.
Plus, Amanda shares why she doesn’t want a bar of Timothée’s “Chalami”, and Ed invites ChatGPT to solve the TV writing crisis (with hilarious results).
In this special bonus episode, join Ed and Amanda as they “pick the WINNER” of the April 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction!
We’ll start by showcasing a couple of our brave daredevils, then count down with us as we read the 6 shortlisted entries all the way up to the number one spot.
Who will take home the AU$1,000 first prize?
In this special bonus episode, Ed and Amanda reveal the 40 members of the April 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction longlist!
First, we’ll cover all the stats from the comp and shout-out some standout entries. We’ll also answer your questions about what goes on behind the scenes of a flash fiction competition. We’ll do a deep-dive on the prompts and showcase the work of some of our brave daredevils, dissecting their stories in detail for all to hear. Suffice it to say, this episode will be a doozy.
Join us, yes? It’s a date!
“Off with his head!” Lewis Carroll has been cancelled!
Ed and Amanda chase the White Rabbit down a tunnel of less-than “Wonder-ful” allegations, before turning the looking glass towards his poetry.
And from the oldest literary genre to the newest, we grapple with the news that a 5% ChatGPT-generated novel won a prestigious literary prize.
In this special bonus episode, Ed and Amanda reveal the shortlist and WINNER of the January 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction!
Count down with us as we read the 6 shortlisted stories all the way up to the number one spot.
Someone will be taking home $1,000. Will it be YOU?
In this special bonus episode, Ed and Amanda reveal the 40 members of the January 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction longlist!
We’ll share interesting stats about the competition and shout out some of our favourite takes on the prompts.
Along the way, we’ll offer plenty of advice about what to do to win the competition (and what not to do!) before dishing out some tough love to our daredevils.
So, grab a beverage of choice (take care not to spill!) and kick back and relax as we put the long in longlist!
You are cordially invited to attend a Not Quite Write dinner party, and short stories are on the menu! Gather ‘round the table as we feast upon James Joyce’s ‘The Dead’, served with a generous side of religion, politics, past loves, and Joycean epiphanies.
Plus, with the January 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction almost at hand, your judges serve up their advice for how to claim the cash. If Ed can get a word in edgewise, he’ll explain why the anti-prompt is “a challenge, not a licence”, and as for dessert? Well, that’s a “grey matter”.
Bon appétit!
Oh no, Amanda forgot to check herself before she rec’d herself! Listen in as Ed roasts her teenage Hanson fanfic, ‘High Doses of Obsession’. Is Amanda as aloof as she claims, or is she still sweating on the chance to join (Eye)saac in “meatspace”?
Plus, find out why all writers should, like, totally take a leaf out of every teenage girl’s book.
Diaries don’t get much attention these days, Anne Frankly, we’re not happy about it! In this episode we delve into the pros and cons of epistolary novels and unlock the mysteries of ‘Piranesi’ by Susanna Clarke.
Plus, Amanda exposes her own ancient secrets when she hands over the keys to her childhood diaries. Has she evolved since age twelve? And what the hell is a ‘Snust?’
We venture out into the wily, windy moors to find out what makes the bad guys tick.
Is Heathcliff the quintessential incel? Did he pull a Ted Bundy, or was it all one big “mist” opportunity?
Plus, Amanda opens up about her own writing flaws, and “Doctor Ed” prescribes a very bitter pill.
Join intrepid hosts Ed and Amanda as they traverse the rocky terrain of critique in a quest to uncover the delicate balance that sustains the giving and receiving of critical feedback.
As the expedition unfolds, they’ll venture further into the heart of the jungle and encounter the rarest of creatures: a Get Rec’d submission they both enjoyed. Will our heroes make it through the desolate wasteland of Ethan Hawke’s hair before sunrise, or will they still be arguing like an old German couple by midnight?
In this episode we reveal the shortlist and WINNER of the 2023 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction. Plus, there’ll be shits and giggles as Ed and Amanda read the top entries for your listening pleasure.
Ed and Amanda reveal the 60 members of the inaugural Not Quite Write Prize Longlist!
… But not before delving deep into the judging process and the lessons they learned from your 678 entries.
Strap in for a detailed behind-the-scenes experience like no other.
In this episode, we take a slight “detour” into the world of Mom Rock to find out what fiction writers can learn from the songwriting greats.
In Get Rec’d, Amanda lays bare her greatest lyrical love, the Barenaked Ladies, only to be eviscerated by Ed’s scathing response. Turns out although people don’t usually complain when you bring cheese… they will if the crackers start rapping.
It’s Not Quite an Episode!
If you’re entering the Not Quite Write Prize you won’t want to miss this one, as we lift the veil on the competition judging process. By the end you’ll decide: are our judging preferences as transparent as glass, or as clear as mud?
Plus, we share a snippet from our interview with the Two Lit Chicks.
Join Ed and Amanda on a podyssey of epic proportions as we dive into The Whale. Was the film really fatphobic? And what does that mean for writers?
And together we’ll celebrate the launch of the Not Quite Write Prize by advertently averting adverbs.
It’s a write-off! Winning strategies for flash and microfiction competitions and how writing prompts can either spark inspiration or spontaneously combust it.
In Get Rec’d, the Grass is Greener, but the competition is anything but healthy.
Plus, we officially launch the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction!
It’s an existential crisis up in here! With the Oscars just around the corner, Ed and Amanda take a deep dive into Everything Everywhere All at Once. They tiptoe around the deadly sin of plagiarism, and Amanda burns bridges with celebrity authors. Plus Ed has a surprise for Amanda that leaves her extremely sensitive… and borderline traumatised.
Let’s chat about ChatGPT: how writers can use AI for good and evil. Plus, we’ll look at the cautionary tale ‘JR’ by William Gaddis and explore the pitfalls of originality for originality’s sake.
Seeing is believing… but if you’re seeing a giant rabbit, it might be time to cut back on the martinis!
Ed and Amanda talk nostalgia in books, films and TV, and Ed reveals the formula for becoming a case-hardened wowser.
How much knowledge is enough to be dangerous? Ed and Amanda talk “How to write” books, and let’s just say… things get a little “tense”…
Also, this round’s ‘Get Rec’d’ proves that if you love the warm feeling of being set on fire, you’ll love Synecdoche, New York
In this episode we talk reboots, remakes, sequels, prequels and revivals – it’ll be enough to make your head spin-off into a new narrative arc!
Plus, Ed reveals what the boys thought about The Baby-Sitters Club back in the day.
Why Brad Pitt couldn’t save Bullet Train. And, did Hemingway really tell us to “Write what you know”? Plus, Ed is forced to ponder the eternal question: “Which Babysitters Club member are you?”
Hosted by Ed and Amanda, the Not Quite Write podcast explores the intricacies of fiction writing, media and current events from a writer’s perspective.
Four times a year, the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction challenges writers from around the world to break a specific “rule” of writing while still telling a great story. Participants have 60 hours to submit a 500-word story for a chance to win a share of AU$4,000 in cash prizes. A flash fiction competition with a twist.
Somebody call Mathemachicken: the math ain’t mathin’!
That’s right, Ed and Amanda have called it early, prematurely celebrating 100 combined episodes and “bonus” episodes of the Not Quite Write Podcast and Not Quite Write Interviews in “regular” episode #23!
We’ll start by dredging up the distant past to reveal how and where we first met, and how the podcast came to be. From there, we hope you’ll indulge us as we revisit some of our favourite moments from the first three years of the Not Quite Write Podcast. It’s been a wild ride!
A huge thanks to our devoted listeners for being there with us through the highest of highs and lowest of… brows.
What do James Joyce, Adolescence, and ‘vajankles’ have in common? This episode of the Not Quite Write podcast, of course!
In this episode, we fully embrace our own juvenile tendencies as we indulge in some highly literary toilet humour.
We also open the mailbag to answer your burning questions and share our erotic fiction and TV show recommendations, before elevating the brow in our discussion of the TV series Adolescence.
But the real question is: who let these guys have wine? Listen as Ed and Amanda crack open the bottles a little too early and race to the bottom in the most entertaining way possible.
Blake Snyder told writers to ‘Save the Cat,’ but is this advice credible, or was Blake Snyder just a talented salesman? In Get Rec’d, Ed and Amanda examine his 1994 kid’s film, ‘Blank Check,’ for the answer.
For the flash enthusiasts, we also delve into how Blake Snyder’s screenwriting advice can be applied to the short fiction format.
Also in this episode, we touch on the line between plagiarism and homage, and deliver an important update for Not Quite Prize entrants.
It’s hot (and a little unhinged) in herre this episode, as Ed and Amanda plumb the depths of Garth Marenghi’s Darkplace.
But first: Monster Sex! Why does this billion-dollar industry have the women screaming “More!”?
For the flash fiction enthusiasts, we’ll unpack genre fiction and why it’s hard to pull off in 500 words.
Plus, stick around after the credits for a behind-the-scenes taste of the cancellable conversation that usually makes the cutting room floor. It’ll even have Nelly singing, “Good gracious!”
Capitalism and art don’t mix… unless you’re Taylor Swift! We start with a look at Self-publishing (Taylor’s Version) following the news that the Pop artist’s self-published Eras Tour book sold nearly a million copies in its first week. From there, we explore Ed’s hidden agenda to lure more men into the literary world (whether they like it or not!) Finally, in Get Rec’d, Amanda has once again neglected to check herself before she rec’d herself, so we shine an uncomfortable spotlight on her own middle grade adventure story, ‘Go Big or Go Home’. Read the New York Times article ‘The […]
We indulge in a little self-Daredevil action with dramatised readings of Ed and Amanda’s own stories and a little one-on-one tough love, before talk turns to the NanoWriMo A.I. controversy and our cancellable thoughts on the matter.
In Get Rec’d we turn the microscope on the film, ‘May December’, and its ties to the true story of convicted pedophile, May Kay Letourneau.
In this STRICTLY ADULTS ONLY episode, Ed and Amanda venture into the world of erotic fiction only to be “slammed in the niche” by Chuck Tingle.
Ed reveals the seminal event that sparked his interest in spicy fiction, and we ask, what motivates people to read erotica? Does it tickle their fancy or just their funny bone?
Keeping it classy, we round out our discussion with a look at the statistics from Elle Griffin’s viral article, ‘No One Buys Books,’ and lament the current state of “venture capitalist” publishing.
Ed and Amanda are confronted with Frankenstein’s P*rnstar as we grapple with the Oscar-winning movie ‘Poor Things’. Is it a feminist masterpiece, or is it simply yet another vehicle for the male gaze?
We also tackle book-to-film adaptations and why book lovers sometimes struggle to appreciate the onscreen version of their beloved novels.
Plus, Amanda shares why she doesn’t want a bar of Timothée’s “Chalami”, and Ed invites ChatGPT to solve the TV writing crisis (with hilarious results).
“Off with his head!” Lewis Carroll has been cancelled!
Ed and Amanda chase the White Rabbit down a tunnel of less-than “Wonder-ful” allegations, before turning the looking glass towards his poetry.
And from the oldest literary genre to the newest, we grapple with the news that a 5% ChatGPT-generated novel won a prestigious literary prize.
You are cordially invited to attend a Not Quite Write dinner party, and short stories are on the menu! Gather ‘round the table as we feast upon James Joyce’s ‘The Dead’, served with a generous side of religion, politics, past loves, and Joycean epiphanies.
Plus, with the January 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction almost at hand, your judges serve up their advice for how to claim the cash. If Ed can get a word in edgewise, he’ll explain why the anti-prompt is “a challenge, not a licence”, and as for dessert? Well, that’s a “grey matter”.
Bon appétit!
Oh no, Amanda forgot to check herself before she rec’d herself! Listen in as Ed roasts her teenage Hanson fanfic, ‘High Doses of Obsession’. Is Amanda as aloof as she claims, or is she still sweating on the chance to join (Eye)saac in “meatspace”?
Plus, find out why all writers should, like, totally take a leaf out of every teenage girl’s book.
Diaries don’t get much attention these days, Anne Frankly, we’re not happy about it! In this episode we delve into the pros and cons of epistolary novels and unlock the mysteries of ‘Piranesi’ by Susanna Clarke.
Plus, Amanda exposes her own ancient secrets when she hands over the keys to her childhood diaries. Has she evolved since age twelve? And what the hell is a ‘Snust?’
We venture out into the wily, windy moors to find out what makes the bad guys tick.
Is Heathcliff the quintessential incel? Did he pull a Ted Bundy, or was it all one big “mist” opportunity?
Plus, Amanda opens up about her own writing flaws, and “Doctor Ed” prescribes a very bitter pill.
Join intrepid hosts Ed and Amanda as they traverse the rocky terrain of critique in a quest to uncover the delicate balance that sustains the giving and receiving of critical feedback.
As the expedition unfolds, they’ll venture further into the heart of the jungle and encounter the rarest of creatures: a Get Rec’d submission they both enjoyed. Will our heroes make it through the desolate wasteland of Ethan Hawke’s hair before sunrise, or will they still be arguing like an old German couple by midnight?
In this episode, we take a slight “detour” into the world of Mom Rock to find out what fiction writers can learn from the songwriting greats.
In Get Rec’d, Amanda lays bare her greatest lyrical love, the Barenaked Ladies, only to be eviscerated by Ed’s scathing response. Turns out although people don’t usually complain when you bring cheese… they will if the crackers start rapping.
Join Ed and Amanda on a podyssey of epic proportions as we dive into The Whale. Was the film really fatphobic? And what does that mean for writers?
And together we’ll celebrate the launch of the Not Quite Write Prize by advertently averting adverbs.
It’s a write-off! Winning strategies for flash and microfiction competitions and how writing prompts can either spark inspiration or spontaneously combust it.
In Get Rec’d, the Grass is Greener, but the competition is anything but healthy.
Plus, we officially launch the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction!
It’s an existential crisis up in here! With the Oscars just around the corner, Ed and Amanda take a deep dive into Everything Everywhere All at Once. They tiptoe around the deadly sin of plagiarism, and Amanda burns bridges with celebrity authors. Plus Ed has a surprise for Amanda that leaves her extremely sensitive… and borderline traumatised.
Let’s chat about ChatGPT: how writers can use AI for good and evil. Plus, we’ll look at the cautionary tale ‘JR’ by William Gaddis and explore the pitfalls of originality for originality’s sake.
Seeing is believing… but if you’re seeing a giant rabbit, it might be time to cut back on the martinis!
Ed and Amanda talk nostalgia in books, films and TV, and Ed reveals the formula for becoming a case-hardened wowser.
How much knowledge is enough to be dangerous? Ed and Amanda talk “How to write” books, and let’s just say… things get a little “tense”…
Also, this round’s ‘Get Rec’d’ proves that if you love the warm feeling of being set on fire, you’ll love Synecdoche, New York
In this episode we talk reboots, remakes, sequels, prequels and revivals – it’ll be enough to make your head spin-off into a new narrative arc!
Plus, Ed reveals what the boys thought about The Baby-Sitters Club back in the day.
Why Brad Pitt couldn’t save Bullet Train. And, did Hemingway really tell us to “Write what you know”? Plus, Ed is forced to ponder the eternal question: “Which Babysitters Club member are you?”
Hosted by Ed and Amanda, the Not Quite Write podcast explores the intricacies of fiction writing, media and current events from a writer’s perspective.
Four times a year, the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction challenges writers from around the world to break a specific “rule” of writing while still telling a great story. Participants have 60 hours to submit a 500-word story for a chance to win a share of AU$4,000 in cash prizes. A flash fiction competition with a twist.
Ed and Amanda reveal the wildcards, shortlist and WINNER of the October 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction featuring the anti-prompt: Break the rule, “Show, don’t tell.”
Who will take home the AU$1,500 first prize and see their name emblazoned on the coveted Not Quite Write Prize trophy?
Ed and Amanda reveal the 40 members of the October 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction longlist, featuring the anti-prompt: Break the rule, “Show, don’t tell.”
First, we kick off with a deep dive into competition stats. Then stay tuned as we answer listener questions. We’ll shoutout the best takes on the prompts, and some of our favourite titles and lines.
Join us, as we stick the boot in for this very looonnnggg kiss goodbye to the Anti-Prompt!
Ding-dong, the anti-prompt is dead! Ed and Amanda reveal the new Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction prompt format. We’ll explain how the new Team-based competition structure will work, and reveal the brand-new prizes up for grabs in 2026 and beyond!
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Hand Over Hand by Marina R. M. Lane.
This story appeared in the July 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “use active voice”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of The Teapot is Haunted by Eilish Forwells.
This story appeared in the July 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “use active voice”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of The Tapestry of You by Natalie Bucsko.
This story appeared in the July 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “use active voice”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Cleansing Fire by Exeter Stevens.
This story appeared in the July 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “use active voice”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Agent Jackson’s Action Faction by MJ McElhaney.
This story appeared in the July 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “use active voice”.
Ed and Amanda reveal the wildcards, shortlist and WINNER of the July 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction featuring the anti-prompt: Break the rule, “use active voice.”
Engage in some active listening as we put on our best passive voices to read the Top 6 stories aloud!
Who will take home the AU$1,500 first prize and see their name emblazoned on the coveted Not Quite Write Prize trophy?
In this bumper episode, Ed and Amanda reveal the 40 members of the July 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction longlist, featuring the anti-prompt: Break the rule, “use active voice.”
First, we kick off with a deep dive into competition stats. Then stay tuned as we answer listener questions. We’ll shoutout the best takes on the prompts, and some of our favourite titles and lines.
So, crack out that origami paper and get folding; this ep’s gonna be lit!
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Beachmasters by Justin Kramasz.
This story appeared in the April 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “kill your darlings”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Beachmasters by Justin Kramasz.
This story appeared in the April 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “kill your darlings”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of The Silence, the Sea, and the Burning Stars by Alexandria Bellani.
This story appeared in the April 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “kill your darlings”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Leaking Compartments by Daredevil Critique – ‘Leaking Compartments’ by Mohnam/Kurosh.
This story appeared in the April 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “kill your darlings”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of At Least it’s not real Diarrhoea by Sarah Kennedy.
This story appeared in the April 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “kill your darlings”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Grimoire She Wrote by SJ Snyder.
This story appeared in the April 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “kill your darlings”.
Ed and Amanda reveal the wildcards, shortlist and WINNER of the April 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction featuring the anti-prompt: Break the rule, “Kill your darlings.”
Sit back and enjoy as we read the 6 shortlisted stories that got the SEAL of approval to feature in our annual print anthology!
Who will take home the AU$1,500 first prize and see their name emblazoned on the coveted Not Quite Write Prize trophy?
Ed and Amanda reveal the 40 members of the April 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction longlist, featuring the anti-prompt: Break the rule, “Kill your darlings.”
First, we kick off with a deep dive into competition stats. Then stay tuned as we answer listener questions. We’ll shoutout the best takes on the prompts, and some of our favourite titles and lines.
So WIPE those schedules and settle in for another looooonglist episode!
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of It’s a Fool’s Game by Eilish Forwells.
This story appeared in the January 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “write what you know”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Say the Words by Stephanie Hewat S.A. Braden.
This story appeared in the January 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “write what you know”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of I Remember by Stephanie Hewat Simmonds.
This story appeared in the January 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “write what you know”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Jesus, et al. Hereby Demand Ms. Paula Green to Cease and Desist All Invocations of Jesus, the Holy Spirit, and “Big Daddy God” by Holly Sadowski.
This story appeared in the January 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “write what you know”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Covid ’28 – Case-study (LS0977/B) – The impact of The Open Door programme on infected females displaying hysteria by Dez Veares.
This story appeared in the January 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “write what you know”.
Ed and Amanda reveal the wildcards, shortlist and winner of the January 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction featuring the anti-prompt: Break the rule, “Write what you know.”
Sit back and enjoy as we read the 6 a-door-able shortlisted stories that will feature in our annual print anthology.
Who will take home the AU$1,500 first prize and see their name emblazoned on the coveted Not Quite Write Prize trophy?
Ed and Amanda reveal the 40 members of the January 2025 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction longlist, featuring the anti-prompt: Break the rule, “Write what you know.”
First, we kick off with a deep dive into key competition stats. Then stay tuned as we answer listener questions. We’ll shoutout the best takes on the prompts, and some of our favourite titles and lines.
… brrring it on!
Entries are now open for the Not Quite Write Prize for FLESH Fiction. The competition is free to enter and calls for erotic stories of no more than 1,500 words written in response to the following theme: “Making the unsexy irresistible.”
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of What Cassandra Saw by Elysia Rourke.
This story appeared in the October 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “avoid head-hopping”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Home Sweet Home by Christy Hartman.
This story appeared in the October 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “avoid head-hopping”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Talking Heads: The Tale of Johnson & Johnson by Holly Sadowski.
This story appeared in the October 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “avoid head-hopping”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Bonus: Daredevil Critique – ‘A non-consensual truth’ by Sarah Kennedy by Sarah Kennedy.
This story appeared in the October 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “avoid head-hopping”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of The Three Lies and One Lifetime of Rucha Shah by Nina Miller.
This story appeared in the October 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “avoid head-hopping”.
Join us as we reveal the shortlist and winner of the October 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction featuring the anti-prompt: Break the rule “avoid head-hopping.”
We’ll lie-ven up the countdown by reading the shortlisted stories from number six all the way to the top spot.
Who will take home the AU$1,000 first prize and see their name emblazoned on the coveted Not Quite Write Prize trophy?
In this special bonus episode, Ed and Amanda reveal the 40 members of the October 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction longlist, featuring the anti-prompt: Break the rule “head-hopping.”
First, we kick off with a deep dive into key competition stats. Then stay tuned as we answer listener questions. We’ll shoutout the best takes on the prompts, and some of our favourite titles and lines.
It’s gonna be lots of fun, and that’s no LIE!
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Dazzling Diamonds, Heroic Horses and Pink Panties by Dez Veares.
This story appeared in the July 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “avoid purple prose”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Roses are Red by Vroni Kiefer.
This story appeared in the July 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “avoid purple prose”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Who Do I Have to Speak to About a Redo on the Prophecy by Holly Sadowski.
This story appeared in the July 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “avoid purple prose”.
Listen in as the judges of the Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction deliver an unfiltered critique of Best Laid Plans by S J Snyder.
This story appeared in the July 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “avoid purple prose”.
Listen in to our on-air critique of Thessily and Sylsiff by Jay Scott as we unpack the good, the bad and the ugly for your voyeuristic pleasure.
This story appeared in the July 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction, which featured the anti-prompt: Break the rule “avoid purple prose”.
Join us as we reveal the shortlist and winner of the July 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction featuring the anti-prompt: Break the rule “avoid purple prose.”
We’ll spice up the countdown by reading the shortlisted from No. 6 up to No. 1.
Who will steal the show and take home the AU$1,000 first prize and coveted Not Quite Write Prize trophy?
In this special bonus episode, Ed and Amanda reveal the 40 members of the July 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction longlist, featuring the anti-prompt: Break the rule “avoid purple prose.”
First, we kick off with a deep dive into key competition stats. Then stay tuned as we answer listener questions and turn the spotlight on common flash fiction tropes. We’ll shoutout the best takes on the prompts, and some of our favourite titles and lines.
It’s a vertiTABLE smorgasbord of flash fiction goodness!
In this special bonus episode, join Ed and Amanda as they “pick the WINNER” of the April 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction!
We’ll start by showcasing a couple of our brave daredevils, then count down with us as we read the 6 shortlisted entries all the way up to the number one spot.
Who will take home the AU$1,000 first prize?
In this special bonus episode, Ed and Amanda reveal the 40 members of the April 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction longlist!
First, we’ll cover all the stats from the comp and shout-out some standout entries. We’ll also answer your questions about what goes on behind the scenes of a flash fiction competition. We’ll do a deep-dive on the prompts and showcase the work of some of our brave daredevils, dissecting their stories in detail for all to hear. Suffice it to say, this episode will be a doozy.
Join us, yes? It’s a date!
In this special bonus episode, Ed and Amanda reveal the shortlist and WINNER of the January 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction!
Count down with us as we read the 6 shortlisted stories all the way up to the number one spot.
Someone will be taking home $1,000. Will it be YOU?
In this special bonus episode, Ed and Amanda reveal the 40 members of the January 2024 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction longlist!
We’ll share interesting stats about the competition and shout out some of our favourite takes on the prompts.
Along the way, we’ll offer plenty of advice about what to do to win the competition (and what not to do!) before dishing out some tough love to our daredevils.
So, grab a beverage of choice (take care not to spill!) and kick back and relax as we put the long in longlist!
In this episode we reveal the shortlist and WINNER of the 2023 Not Quite Write Prize for Flash Fiction. Plus, there’ll be shits and giggles as Ed and Amanda read the top entries for your listening pleasure.
Ed and Amanda reveal the 60 members of the inaugural Not Quite Write Prize Longlist!
… But not before delving deep into the judging process and the lessons they learned from your 678 entries.
Strap in for a detailed behind-the-scenes experience like no other.
It’s Not Quite an Episode!
If you’re entering the Not Quite Write Prize you won’t want to miss this one, as we lift the veil on the competition judging process. By the end you’ll decide: are our judging preferences as transparent as glass, or as clear as mud?
Plus, we share a snippet from our interview with the Two Lit Chicks.
![#21 – [Blank] the Cat](https://notquitewritepodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Episode-21.jpg)
