There are so many brave Villagers out there contesting . We're standing up and applauding you today!!! Here's the contest news from the last few days!
Congratulations to Jan Drexler and Nancy Connally who finaled in the TARA contest!
And Marilyn Puett has made it to the second round of the Buroghs Publishing 'What's in a Name Novella Contest. ' Don't forget to go and vote for her story, Better As A Memory. You can vote daily.
A final congratulations to the 2013 Carol Awards finalists and our very own Myra Johnson.
Update!! Just heard Mary Curry won the Inspirational category of the Laurie! CONGRATS!!
EPIC's eBook Competition. Deadline July 15. Works published between June 1 and May 31 are eligible.
Indiana’s Golden Opportunity Contest. Deadline July 1. Submit the first 55 pages. Two final editor judges. Open for entries May 1.
FINAL JUDGES FOR 2013:
Contemporary Romance
Traditional Print Editor Latoya Smith Associate Editor Grand Central Publishing
E-Pub Editor Rhonda Helms Acquisitions & Develop. Editor Carina Press
Erotic Romance
Traditional Print Editor Leis Pederson Editor Berkley Publishing Group
E-Pub Editor Michele Paulin Editorial Director Resplendence Publishing
Historical Romance
Traditional Print Editor Laura Fazio Asst. Editor NAL at Penguin
E-Pub Editor Erin Molta Senior Editor Entangled Publishing
Inspirational Romance
Traditional Print Editor Shana Smith Associate Editor Harlequin Love Inspired
Traditional Print Editor Becky Philpott Assoc. Acquisition. Ed. HarperCollins Christian Publishing
Paranormal Romance
Traditional Print Editor Kristine Swartz Editorial Assistant Berkley Publishing Group
E-Pub Editor Heather Howland Senior Editor Entangled Publishing
Romantic Suspense
Traditional Print Editor Patience Bloom Senior Editor Harlequin Books
E-Pub Editor Deb Nemeth Developmental Editor Carina Press
Young Adult Romance
Traditional Print Editor Leah Hultenschmidt Senior Editor Sourcebooks Casablanca
E-Pub Editor Stephanie Taylor Owner & Editor in Chief Astraea Press
First place winners in each of the seven categories will continue to the Best-of-the-Best round.
Best of the Best Katherine Pelz Assistant Editor Berkley Publishing Group
The Dixie Kane Memorial Contest. Deadline July 15. Entrants do not need to be members of RWA to enter. Open to published and unpublished authors.Entry: First 5 double-spaced pages. Also, one-page single-spaced synopsis (not judged).
***No electronic submissions. ***.
Final Readers for first place entries:
Short/Long Series Contemporary, Rhonda Penders, Editor-in-Chief, The Wild Rose Press
Single Title Contemporary, Kathy Cottrell, Senior Editor Last Rose of Summer, The Wild Rose Press
Historical Romance, Allison Byers, Editor Historical Division, The Wild Rose Press
Paranormal, CallieLynn Wolfe, Senior Editor Black Rose, The Wild Rose Press
Inspirational, Nicola Martinez, Editor-in-Chief, Pelican Book Group
Novel w/ Strong Romantic Elements, Cindy Davis, Editor, The Wild Rose Press
Romantic Suspense, DJ Hendrickson, Editor, Champagne and Crimson Rose, The Wild Rose Press
Erotic Romance, Diana Carlile, Senior Editor, Scarlet Rose Line.
The Rebecca. Deadline July 15. Eligibility: unpublished or published.Entry: first 5000 words, electronic only. Cash prizes.
Contemporary Romance Leis Pederson, Berkley
Historical Romance Jennifer Enderlin, St. Martin’s
Paranormal/SFR/UF Adam Wilson, Pocket Books
Erotic Romance Peter Senftleben, Kensington
Young Adult Romance Pam van Hylckama Vlieg, Foreword Literary
Put Your Heart in a Book. Entry period: June 1, 2013 – June 30. Entry: synopsis and first chapter/prologue (30 pages max).
Short Contemporary
Agent: Pattie Steele-Perkins, Steele-Perkins Literary Agency
Editor: Lauren Ruth, Entangled Publishing
Multi-published Author: Katherine Garbera
Single-Title Contemporary
Agent: Michelle Grajkowski, Three Seas Literary Agency
Editor: LaToya Smith, Grand Central Publishing
Multi-published Author: Margaret Mallory
Historical
Agent: Jordy Albert – The Booker Albert Agency
Editor: Tessa Woodward, Avon Books
Multi-published Author: Connie Brockway
Paranormal
Agent: Eric Ruben, Ruben Literary Agency
Editor: Melissa Johnson, Carina Press
Multi-published Author: Eloisa James
Young Adult Romance
Agent: Kevan Lyon, Marsal Lyon Literary Agency
Editor: Leah Hultenschmidt, Sourcebooks
Multi-published author: Keri Mikulski
Romantic Suspense
Agent: Pamela Harty, The Knight Agency
Editor: Patience Smith Bloom, Harlequin
Multi-published author: Diana Cosby
Category 5 Contest (Writers on the Storm- The Woodlands, Texas Chapter of American Christian Fiction Writers). Entries accepted June 1 through June 30 deadline.Entry consists of:11 pages, the first page should be your 250 word synopsis single spaced with the same header information as the ten manuscript pages that follow.
Contemporary - Mary Keeley of Books & Such Literary Agency
Historical - Julie Gwinn, Fiction Manager for B&H Publishing Group
Mystery/Suspense/Thriller - Fay Lamb, Acquisition Editor for Harbourlight Books
Romance - Tamela Hancock Murray of The Steve Laube Agency
Speculative/ Young Adult - Jeff Gerke, Founder of Marcher Lord Press
Indiana’s Golden Opportunity Contest. Deadline July 1. Submit the first 55 pages. Two final editor judges. Open for entries May 1.
FINAL JUDGES FOR 2013:
Contemporary Romance
Traditional Print Editor Latoya Smith Associate Editor Grand Central Publishing
E-Pub Editor Rhonda Helms Acquisitions & Develop. Editor Carina Press
Erotic Romance
Traditional Print Editor Leis Pederson Editor Berkley Publishing Group
E-Pub Editor Michele Paulin Editorial Director Resplendence Publishing
Historical Romance
Traditional Print Editor Laura Fazio Asst. Editor NAL at Penguin
E-Pub Editor Erin Molta Senior Editor Entangled Publishing
Inspirational Romance
Traditional Print Editor Shana Smith Associate Editor Harlequin Love Inspired
Traditional Print Editor Becky Philpott Assoc. Acquisition. Ed. HarperCollins Christian Publishing
Paranormal Romance
Traditional Print Editor Kristine Swartz Editorial Assistant Berkley Publishing Group
E-Pub Editor Heather Howland Senior Editor Entangled Publishing
Romantic Suspense
Traditional Print Editor Patience Bloom Senior Editor Harlequin Books
E-Pub Editor Deb Nemeth Developmental Editor Carina Press
Young Adult Romance
Traditional Print Editor Leah Hultenschmidt Senior Editor Sourcebooks Casablanca
E-Pub Editor Stephanie Taylor Owner & Editor in Chief Astraea Press
First place winners in each of the seven categories will continue to the Best-of-the-Best round.
Best of the Best Katherine Pelz Assistant Editor Berkley Publishing Group
The Dixie Kane Memorial Contest. Deadline EXTENDED TO JULY 31.. Entrants do not need to be members of RWA to enter. Open to published and unpublished authors.Entry: First 5 double-spaced pages. Also, one-page single-spaced synopsis (not judged).
***No electronic submissions. ***.
Final Readers for first place entries:
Short/Long Series Contemporary, Rhonda Penders, Editor-in-Chief, The Wild Rose Press
Single Title Contemporary, Kathy Cottrell, Senior Editor Last Rose of Summer, The Wild Rose Press
Historical Romance, Allison Byers, Editor Historical Division, The Wild Rose Press
Paranormal, CallieLynn Wolfe, Senior Editor Black Rose, The Wild Rose Press
Inspirational, Nicola Martinez, Editor-in-Chief, Pelican Book Group
Novel w/ Strong Romantic Elements, Cindy Davis, Editor, The Wild Rose Press
Romantic Suspense, DJ Hendrickson, Editor, Champagne and Crimson Rose, The Wild Rose Press
Erotic Romance, Diana Carlile, Senior Editor, Scarlet Rose Line.
The Rebecca. Deadline July 15. Eligibility: unpublished or published.Entry: first 5000 words, electronic only. Cash prizes.
Contemporary Romance Leis Pederson, Berkley
Historical Romance Jennifer Enderlin, St. Martin’s
Paranormal/SFR/UF Adam Wilson, Pocket Books
Erotic Romance Peter Senftleben, Kensington
Young Adult Romance Pam van Hylckama Vlieg, Foreword Literary
The Golden Rose. Deadline July 31. Early bird rates apply until June 30! The Golden Rose accepts entries up to a maximum of 10,000 words including prologue (if any).
Contemporary Series Romance-Nicole Fischer, Avon/HarperCollins
Contemporary Single Title-Rebecca Strauss, DeFiore and Company
Historical-Jennifer Udden, Donald Maass Agengy
Mainstream Novel with Strong Romantic Elements-Emily Ohanjanians, HQN
Paranormal-Amy Boggs, Donald Maass Agency
Romantic Suspense- Eric Ruben, Ruben Agency
Young Adult-Lauren Ruth, Entangled Publishing
The Golden Palm. Deadline August 15. Entry consists of a maximum of 25 pages, double-spaced.
Short/Long Category: Allison Carroll, Harlequin
Single Title Category: Patience Bloom, Senior Editor Harlequin
Historical Category: Leah Hultenschmidt, Senior Editor Sourcebooks
New Adult Category: Laurie McLean, Foreward Literary
Young Adult Category: Pam van Hylckama Vlieg, Foreward Literary
Paranormal Category: Ann-Leslie Tuttle, Senior Editor Harlequin
The Golden Pen. Note it opens June 1 with a discounted early bird entry fee until July 15. Deadline is August 15. A Golden Pen contest entry shall include a synopsis (not to exceed fifteen pages) plus the first consecutive pages of the manuscript in one document, together totaling not more than fifty-five pages.
$35 per entry received on or before midnight EDT July 15.
$40 per entry received on or before midnight EDT August 15.
$5 judging discount for any entrant who is also a first-round judge in a different category.
Contemporary Single Title Romance – Deb Werksman, Sourcebooks
Inspirational Romance – Melissa Endlich, Love Inspired
Paranormal Romance – Leis Pederson, Berkley Publishing Group
Romantic Suspense – Elizabeth Poteet, St. Martin’s Press
Series Romance– Susan Litman, Harlequin Enterprises
Historical Romance– Katherine Pelz, Berkley Publishing Group
Young Adult Romance – Regina Griffin, EgmontUSA
2014 Great American Fiction Contest -The Saturday Evening Post. Deadline July 1. Prize is publication and cash! Stories must be 1,500-5,000 in length. (Thanks to Pat Jeanne
Davis for this info).
"Tribute to Our Troops" Essay Contest-The Saturday Evening Post Honor the Troops, Win a SpeidelWatch. 200 word essay. Deadline July 4.
Wow! Women on Writing Summer 2012 Flash Fiction Contest. Deadline August 31.
Word Count:Maximum: 750, Minimum: 250 OPEN PROMPT! Open to all styles of writing, although we do encourage you to take a close look at our guest judge for the season if you are serious about winning. We love creativity, originality, and light-hearted reads. That's not to say that the guest judge will feel the same... so go wild! Express yourself, and most of all, have some fun! Entries limited to a maximum of 300 stories. Please enter early to ensure inclusion. The winner not only gets cash and goodies but an agent read! The guest agent judge is Maria Corsiviero.
The Family Circle 2013 Fiction Writing Contest. Deadline September 16, 2013. Submit an original (written by entrant), fictional short story of no more than 2,500 words (typed, double-spaced and page numbered on 8-1/2 x 11 paper), including your full name, mailing address, daytime telephone number (including area code) and e-mail address (optional) on each page by mailing story in an envelope with proper postage affixed to: Family Circle Fiction Writing Contest.Grand Prize (1): A prize package including a check in the amount of $1,000.00.
The Sixth Annual, Real Simple, Life Lessons Essay Contest.
Maybe, in the course of your life, you’ve had an Erin Brockovich moment: say, the time you stood up to a bully in second grade, or the day you ended a long-standing friendship that had turned toxic. Or maybe your acts of courage have been less dramatic but no less powerful: moving to a new country. Daring to fall in love a second time around. Leaving a settled career to embark on a risky new venture. Whatever your story, share it with us.
Enter Real Simple’s sixth annual Life Lessons Essay Contest and you could have your essay published in Real Simple and receive a prize of $3,000.
To enter, send your typed, double-spaced submission (1,500 words maximum, preferably in a Microsoft Word document) to lifelessons@realsimple.com. Deadline September 19.
And remember, the contest update remains available on the Seeker web page all month long.
The July Contest Diva is Pepper Basham!
2012 ACFW Genesis Semi-Finalist
2011 ACFW Genesis Double Finalist
2010 TARA Inspirational Category Winner
2009 Golden Rose Finalist
2009 Writers Digest Honorable Mention
2009 Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writer’s Conference Award of Excellence
"One of the main reasons I started entering contests in 2009 (besides Mary Connealy’s pretty impressive prodding) was to gain specific feedback and guidance. Of course that feedback also included some kick-butt comments to help weed out whether I was serious or not, which was a good litmus test.
The writing world isn't for the weak-willed, soft-headed, or floppy-spined.
(Thankfully, soft-hearted yet distractable people are still welcome)
However the most important thing I’ve gleaned from entering contents is the valuable tool of Teachability.
Contests are subjective, it’s true, but they also provide opportunity to hone writing skills. Things I’d never thought of before because of my naiveté, or hiccups in my craft or style, came to light with suggestions from judges.
An extra set of trained eyes really can open up ways for us to become better writers – as long as we keep those comments in perspective.
I learned cool things like “You have a unique and interesting voice”
Unhelpful things like “Do you really want me to like this character? Because she sounds like a witch and I would never want to read this book.” (There are more constructive ways to make comments like this – just sayin’)
Educational things like “You’re a good storyteller, but you need to develop your characters more.”
I think once we stop learning, we should probably stop writing , because there is always something new, exciting, and different to learn. " -Pepper Basham
~~~
There are contests here for everyone, so no excuses this month. Tell us what your contest plans are or what you are working on.
Oh, and the prize vault IS open! Comment today for a chance to win a copy of Myra Johnson's A Horseman's Hope.
And I'll do a five page critique of a contest entry. But you have to tell me you would like to have your name in the jar for a critique.
Winners announced in the Weekend Edition.
Now go forth and Contest!!
Tina
Radcliffe writes for Love Inspired. Her latest release is Mending the
Doctor's Heart. You can visit her at www.tinaradcliffe.com. - See more
at: http://seekerville.blogspot.com/#sthash.D4gDYHqd.dpuf
Tina
Radcliffe writes for Love Inspired. Her latest release is Mending the
Doctor's Heart. You can visit her at www.tinaradcliffe.com. - See more
at: http://seekerville.blogspot.com/#sthash.D4gDYHqd.dpuf
Tina
Radcliffe writes for Love Inspired. Her latest release is Mending the
Doctor's Heart. You can visit her at www.tinaradcliffe.com. - See more
at: http://seekerville.blogspot.com/#sthash.D4gDYHqd.dpuf
Tina Radcliffe writes for Love Inspired. Her latest release is Mending the Doctor's Heart. You can find her at www.tinaradcliffe.com
I think I'm going to put the Genesis MS in Golden Pen and see how we do head to head with other inspy genres. I like that it's 50 pages so I'll get professional feedback deeper into the MS than with Genesis, Rattler, or any other contest that puppy's been in.
ReplyDeleteAs for the contemporary WIP, I'm going to enter it in Dixie Kane. As soon as I rewrite it based on earlier misgivings confirmed by the Seekers yesterday. ;-)
WAY TO BE GUTSY, Kimball!!!
ReplyDeletePepper is definitely amazing.
ReplyDeleteI have no contest plans at this time. Have been busy with quarter end and trying to edit a manuscript. Will have to examine again.
I love CU and so glad to see contests for the published too. I just may enter for the thrill of it. ;)
ReplyDeleteCongratulations to everyone!!!!
Pepper, right on!!! I was trying to remember all my finals as you listed yours. Awesome job! I've heard so much about your writing I can't wait to read one of your books!
Well, editing works too, Walt. Excellent!!
ReplyDeleteTook me a while to figure out why you love Colorado University, Christina.
ReplyDeleteLong day, lol.
I'm stressed out. It's why I forgot to congratulate Pepper. (blushes and backs into corner)
ReplyDeleteLOL! I'm sure you would wonder that given I'm a KU fan.
ReplyDeleteI love that I can learn about so many great contests from you guys--thanks for doing the research for me! ;) I'd love to have my name in a jar for a critique. I'm a real newbie, so I can use all the help I can get. As for contests...I don't know. I think I'll hold off for the summer, but I'll try in September...maybe, we'll see.
ReplyDeleteFun to get to know all of you. :)
We all started as newbies and we all are still learning, Amber.
ReplyDeleteGreat to have you!!
One day when I finally have something completed I will begin to enter contests. I look forward to the criticism as I have always thought it constructive to get feed back, pro of con, on things in general as opposed to no feedback at all.
ReplyDeleteHave a blessed weekend! I'm going to look at puppies this weekend and may be a 'mommy' again by tomorrow. No one can replace my beloved Peppi that passed away on June 19th but we are excited to have a new little guy tugging at our heartstrings.
Smiles & Blessings,
Cindy W.
countrybear52 AT yahoo DOT com
The five page crit by Tina is going to be worth more than the cost of a contest entry.
ReplyDeleteHappy Contesting!
And hail to the C D. Nicely said Pepper!
Hey guys!
ReplyDeleteWalt - thanks! The feeling's mutual.
Funny, every time I see your name I think of a Samurai. Pretty cool!
When people see my name, they think of a vegetable.
Christina,
ReplyDeleteThanks. All those contests and not published...
sigh.
It's kind of like the song, Some Day My Prints will Come.
:-)
Congratulations to the Tara and Carol Award finalists!!!! I'm tickled pink with the feedback I got from the Tara judges. Gobsmacked at the detail and care they went to and how very, very encouraging they were. Hard to believe they are all volunteers. Now I can't wait to get started on edits. One more day and I'm off for the summer, turning my day job into full-time writer for two months and see what happens.
ReplyDeleteNo work means no salary though, and money will be tight so I'm not going to enter another contest just yet. Maybe one that has a closing date in August. But I'll definitely be entering more. I've got the bug!
I have promised myself not to contest until after RWA but I am always up for a critique from Tina.
ReplyDeleteYAY, Pepper.
Peace, Julie
Nancy Kimball, I'm proud o' youse...
ReplyDeleteWe lose 100% of the races we don't enter.
:)
Go get 'em, Tiger!!!
And Cindy W I can't believe you won't come home with some sweet scrap o' somethin'! They're too irresistible!
And another AMBER!!!! I love that name! And we love newbies like T-H-I-S much!
Pepper!!! You're always a contest queen/diva in my book, girlfriend!
And did I read it right that the Dixie Kane contest is using one publisher for everything but inspirationals??? I have never seen that before. Ever.
Tina, have you?
Thank you, Debra for that sweet comment. Check is in the mail.
ReplyDeleteLast year Dixie Kane was all the same publisher. I talked to Nicholas the coordinator about that last year.
ReplyDeleteBut they are not seeing my point.
Banging head against table.
MARY CURRY. ATTENTION MARY CURRY.
ReplyDeleteI heard a rumor you won a contest.
Please check in.
Pepper is another one like Debra and Walt and Ms. Kimball, they are so close to the precipice. So close to selling that one little push and they are going to fall in.
ReplyDeletePuppy shopping, Cindy! What fun.
ReplyDeleteHi Tina,
ReplyDeleteIf you write Amish what category do you enter? Contemporary?
Do contests like Amish stories?
I'm studying your list and would love a 5 page crit. I'll try to decide later today and let you know. Best story for the best contest...so many decisions.
Thanks for pushing us, Tina!
Jan Drexler. You write Amish. Do you enter in Inspy? I am thinking Jackie that I would go according to the final editor judge. Who do you want to sell to is the question.
ReplyDeleteAttention. Confirmed.
ReplyDeleteMary Curry won the Inspy Category of the Laurie. Can't find the list anywhere however.
Best kept secret.
CONGRATS MARY!!!
YAY Mary Curry!!!
ReplyDeleteAnd I was so stinkin' happy for Myra, I laughed OUT LOUD!!!
Then did a happy dance
I'm doing the happy dance for all the winners. CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteDid you say there was a contest for everyone? Even those of us that are readers?
I'm not entering any contests this month. I'm working on fast drafting my next book, beginning Monday. This weekend I'm finishing up my character sketches, and then I'm actually going to (gulp) write SOTP style.
ReplyDeleteHave fun contesting everyone!
Congratulations, Mary, that is awesome! I finales in the Lauries years ago.
ReplyDeletePepper, it will come. I expect real soon, real soon. I have at least 7 finals (only one first place). I strategically entered contests with certain final judges. Only one contest earned me a full request, two actually but I just contacted the Ms the Friday before. I ended up selling through one of Seekerville's contests. :)
Jeanne, I think I will be doing the same unless I hear back from my editor that I need to work on something else.
ReplyDeleteWell of course, Marianne. Readers get a chance to win Myra Johnson's book.
ReplyDeleteHey, bet you're glad you aren't in Arizona today. High of 117 today and possibly 120 tomorrow.
Oh, and I LOVED Pepper's words about contests!!! Way to go, Pepper!
ReplyDeleteGo fast drafters!!!!
ReplyDelete1k1hr???
DEBRA—I agree, Tina's critiques are AMAZING.
ReplyDeletePEPPER—I love your song, "Some day my prints will come!" :)
CHRISTINA—we can encourage each other then. :)
Yep, Tina. I LOVED 1K1HR when I wrote my last fast draft. See ya there?
ReplyDeleteI am the coordinator of the 8th Annual Dixie Kane Memorial Contest and have been since the second annual. I was also on the original planning committee. I thank Seekerville for posting our contest over the last few years.
ReplyDeleteWe do not accept electronic submissions and find it hard to attract entries. But one thing we offer has never been offered by any other RWA Chapter Contest and that is a quality control survey. The results are cumulatively posted on our website. I have received inquiries from other contest administrators about how and why I do it but I have never seen it in any other RWA Contest.
Also, I announce Dixie Kane Contest Success Stories when an entrant gets back with me to let me know that her ms is now published and she owes a debt of gratitude to the Dixie Kane judges who set her on the right track.
One entrant said that she never enters paper contests but she tried us once and the results of the Dixie Kane Judges' feedback was worth all the effort of going to the post office and dealing with the paper work.
There is more information on our website at http://solawriters.org/
We receive numerous multiples (6 to 8) from the same entrants year after year testing their mss.
I sure would like to see some of you entering my contest.
Good morning, Seekerville.
ReplyDeleteWow, I lucked out today. This is officially my first day of summer vacation. I slept in, took the dog for a long walk, and now I get to play on the island (hot coffee in hand).
Congratulations, Pepper. As the June Diva, I'm happy to pass on the crown.
It's sort of fun that my last act as Diva was actually winning a contest. Hope you do something even more spectacular!
Thank you Tina (and spies) for digging out the info. It is up on their website now.
http://smrw.org/
I actually found out that I won when I was tagged on FB by my two co-finalists. They saw the email. I was down on hands and knees scrubbing behind bookcases in my classroom. So now that the dirty work is done, it's fun to celebrate here.
Sorry I've been MIA lately. This has been a school year like no other. But now it's DONE! And I have
10 whole days to write ahead of me (before my next work obligation).
Happy contesting and good luck to all who enter.
I'm judging a contest this month. :-) Well, since I've already judged three of the five entries, I'm really more :-/ than :-).
ReplyDeleteFWIW, the #1 problem I see again and again in contest entries (and yes I'm including 23 of my 25 Carols) is . . .
*Lack of Individual Story Goals*
Oh the entrants will say their leads have goals. But really the story is that the inciting incident is what causes the lead to now have a goal.
Umm, no. The problem&goal caused by the inciting incident is the external situation. (Although depending on the story, it could be the goal, but usually that's not the case.) The goal needs to be something that each lead wants *prior* to the story opening so that the inciting incident becomes an obstacle to that goal. And the goal should be tied to internal motivation. But that's not what I'm seeing in 98% of the contest entries I've judged this year alone.
So when looking at your opening 25-35 pages, ask yourself . . .
Does the inciting incident cause my lead to now have something to deal with? (to react to)
OR
Is the inciting incident a roadblock to my leads obtaining that one thing they think they want because it will bring them happiness? Now they have to solve X so that they can get back to achieving G? And maybe throughout the course of the story, they realize in dealing with X they don't want G anymore.
That's very good advice, Gina.
ReplyDeleteThe inciting incident is not the goal.
The inciting incident presents a new opportunity and a change of plans.
And a new goal with insurmountable obstacles.
Then the game begins!
Mary, welcome back to the land of the living.
ReplyDeleteWow! So much information and so much good news! Congrats to all and to those who are going to dip into the contest pool.
ReplyDeleteThanks for mentioning my entry in the Boroughs contest. I've gotten very little writing done because I've been promoting my entry all over cyberspace. I'm pooped! But I can't let up. I want to make it to Round 3 and I thank all of you who've voted for me and will continue to vote for me.
Off to get a haircut! This mess is getting shaggy and needs scissors.
Marilyn
I wouldn't complain if you were prophetic, Tina.
ReplyDeleteBut I'm cool with the waiting game...most of the time.
Now, Debra, Nancy, and Walt might have a different opinion :-)
Thanks for the encouragement, Christina!
ReplyDeleteOkay, ladies and gents. Let's review the Dixie Kane contest for Nicholas and share the strengths and weaknesses of the contest.
ReplyDeleteFive pages is a nice non threatening contest.
Numerous categories is excellent.
The downside is mailing entries. With entry fee and return mailing fee, that a lot of mula for a 5 page contest.
Authors notoriously wait until the last minute and are notoriously BROKE.
The other downside is that again this year there are too many judges from the same publishing house.
You need to ask your published authors in your chapter to invite their editors to judge.
Most contest entrants are looking for final judges. Everyone thinks they are going to final. A great attitude. So they want a great final judge. They want to enter in more than one category too...but if it's from the same publishing house you are tossing money down the drain.
My seven cents.
Yay Pepper! Gotta get thru 4th of July and this firework stand going on in my garage before I think about much of anything else but I'll try to enter something this month. Tina, please put my name in the jar for a critique. One of the most helpful things ever!!
ReplyDeleteYes. See you at 1K1HR this weekend, Jeanne.
ReplyDeleteJeanne T,
ReplyDeletethanks. I'll keep singing it.
No contests for me but good luck to all those who enter.
ReplyDeleteI'm working on getting my ms in shape to submit.
Wahoo! Congratulations to our contest finalists and winners: Jan, Nancy, Marilyn P, and Mary Curry. Divas all! Pepper, you rock!!
ReplyDeleteMyra, congrats on the Carol Final! Will be cheering for you in Indy.
Tina, thanks for the contest update! Loads of opportunities for those looking for ways to sail off Unpubbled Island!
Janet
I love these contest updates, Tina!
ReplyDeleteAnd yes, I'm still pumped about my TARA finals :) Thanks for the shout out!
And congratulations to Nancy Connally!
Contest goals for the month: get my revised TARA entries done and in before the deadline.
And then maybe the Rebecca.
I'm learning that contests are a great way to refine those first pages or chapters. I've completely revamped one WIP since I first entered it in the TARA, so I'm anxious to get the feedback on the revised version!
Also trying not to think about the fact that the Fool for Love winners will be announced soon...
BIG thanks go out to Seekerville! We would never know how to contest without all of you!
Congrats to Pepper! You contest diva, you!
ReplyDeleteWait a minute. Cindy R...you have a fireworks stand in your garage??
ReplyDeleteThanks TINA for the update. We love contests.
ReplyDeleteCongrats to PEPPER. Go girl.
Have a great weekend everyone.
MYYYYYRAAAAA!!!!!!!!! CONGRATS girlfriend. woo hooo
ReplyDeleteJAN and NANCY C. woooo hooooooo to you too.
Yay MARILYN
MARY CURRY you ROCK.
Way to go all of you. So exciting.
And to answer Jackie's question -
ReplyDeleteI usually enter the inspirational category, if there is one. A lot depends on who the final judge is.
For instance, looking at the Rebecca, I'd enter the Historical Romance category (I write historical Amish stories). Since the final judge is from St. Martin's Press, I went to their website and searched for Amish books. They've published some Amish mysteries and a couple non-fiction, so they may be open to publishing my historical romance.
If I hadn't found any Amish books in their list, I'd probably skip this contest.
Most Amish books are published by inspirational publishers. The ones that are published by non-inspy publishers tend to have non-inspy themes - much like the "Amish reality" TV shows. (Yes, in quotes. IMHO, those shows are neither Amish or reality!)
It pays to know who is publishing what :)
Um... yeah Tina. A fireworks stand in our garage. Sounds fun huh???
ReplyDeleteCongratulations to all our award-winning Seekervillagers!!!
ReplyDeleteWay to go, Jan & Nancy in the TARA!!!
Marilyn--second round--you go, girl!!!
Mary Curry, WOW on the Laurie win!!!
This has actually been a roller-coaster week for me. First the news of my Carol final, which still has me flying high. But then, alas, I did more revisions on an old unpublished manuscript and entered it in a contest open to published authors. Well, I got some eye-opening critiques. Not ready for prime time, that's for sure! We never, ever, ever stop learning.
Great contest update Tina, thanks!
ReplyDeleteI love these comments today--so insightful. Gina's is worth putting into a word document and putting on my laptop desk.
And thank you Jan for saying you might go into the Rebecca in historical. Now I can save that $$. It's as Tina says, writers are notoriously broke...:)
The insight from the coordinator of the Dixie was interesting as well. I do have to admit that the fact that it is a paper contest, was a bit off putting, but I can (and do) print out at work, so I'm only out the postage. It would be a good way to check the start of a manuscript.
And the final round judges are a way of deciding where that entry fee will go this month.
Congrats Pepper! So impressive!
Piper
Forgot to congratulate our Contest Diva of the Month! Pepper, what an impressive contest resume you have!
ReplyDeleteBTW, for anyone who already has a copy of my book A Horseman's Hope, you will see a familiar Seekervillager name in the acknowledgements! Couldn't have written that book without you, Pep!
A slight correction on the Dixie Kane Contest. There are no final judges. The first place winners in each category has their entry sent to a TWRP editor for a guaranteed read with the prospect of a request for more of the ms. In the 7th Annual last year, 6 first place winners had their entries sent to a TWRP editor and 2 received a request for the entire ms and 4 received a request for the first three chapters.
ReplyDeleteSorry about the misunderstanding.
That's similar to a final judge process. :)
ReplyDeletePepper! Great accomplishments! Yes, teachability is a perfect word for this writing world.
ReplyDeleteWonderful news on all the contest announcements...cheering for Jan, Nancy C, Marilyn (I've been voting), Myra and Mary!!!
I JUST ENTERED A CONTEST! I've learned SO much since my first romance contest entry in February....thanks to Seekerville.
GMC (and I know what those letters mean), Paypal, rhino hide, standard manuscript formatting, HOOKS (I did a bit of revision this morning. I may be teachable)....I need to study Gina's suggestions, however...more to learn. :) Thanks for all the advice and encouragement!
I'll probably enter another contest, maybe the Dixie Kane. I like mail. Good luck to all contesting and for Cindy W's new puppy search.
Please put me in the hat for Myra's book....I already (sort of) have a critique....I think...if not, please enter me for a Tina critique. (It's changed a bit.) :)
BTW, I LOVE the University of Colorado! Go BUFFS!!!
Alright, way to go Sherida you DIVA IN TRAINING!!!!
ReplyDeleteI love it here. Piper, I copied and pasted Gina's comment into word and saved it in my "Craft" folder so great minds think alike. I so wish I could respond to all the awesomeness but I'm trying to get wrapped up here at the day job and earn my money. To cover all these contest fees. :-p Thanks to all the well-wishes, I see them and they mean a lot. *HUGS*
ReplyDeleteGreat advice, Gina. I have seen the same thing through most of my judging.
ReplyDeleteI've also been seeing a lack of believability. Make certain that if your MC has a good reason for doing something.
The other thing, don't be afraid to write to the contest. Hook us from the beginning and leave us hanging at the end. Out of all my years judging, only a few entries have left an impression so deep that they've stayed with me for weeks, sometimes even months.
Going for my first-ever contest, the Cat5, which has THIS SUNDAY as its deadline! My sister has looked over my 10 pages, and my daughter has helped with the synopsis. Took my sister's edits to an appointment this morning and was finally looking them over, making changes, crossing out some of her ideas, agreeing with others...but tonight I need to sit here and work on retyping so I can make sense of it all.
ReplyDeleteWould love to win Myra's book! :)
I've been doing 1K1HR almost daily to pump my evening word count. It's working.
ReplyDeleteNormally I'd think "You're too busy or tired or goofy to write in the evening..."
But I do it anyway and it works, LOL!
I'd love to see more o' youse over there, it's a great and FREE resource. Accountability is a wonderful push toward production.
Gina, what great advice!!! Thank you for that simple breakdown. And Jeanne, I'm delighted that you're ready to write! YAY!!!!!
Nick, I love contests, I got my first contracts because of Finally a Bride as a result of "Perfect Pitch" final but not a win... and that landed me two editors looking at the same book from two separate houses.
A nice predicament, right?
So I'd love to see the Dixie Kane mix it up a little, throw other judges in there. That shows heightened credibility for the contest from an author's POV...
The paper part wouldn't bother me if I loved the contest, but e-entries are so much easier... cheaper.... and it's the wave of the future so that's something to think about.
I love that you're a GUY COORDINATOR! That adds a different dimension to the whole thing, and I'm so glad you're over here talking about it. We love contests in Seekerville... So please feel right at home!
MELANIE DID HER SYNOPSIS????? There's a Hallelujah chorus playin' in upstate NY tonight, LOL!!!
ReplyDeleteNick, you're right, of course, they're not final round judges...
ReplyDeleteBut unless an author's goal is to be published by one single press and one single press only... you're limiting your numbers.
Because everyone who's looking at other publishers is passing you by.
Just something to think about for next year's contest. Entrants like variety and they often have a targeted individual at a publishing house (like Tina James, Esi Sogah, Melissa Endlich, Rachel Burkot, etc.) and they watch for that specific desk.
Jan, I'm so happy for you!!!! Your enthusiasm just 'bleeds' through the typeset!!!
ReplyDeleteI'm just saying WAY TO GO for those (Sherida and Melanie Pike!!) entering their first contests! :) May your feedback be wonderful and helpful!! :)
ReplyDeleteMelanie Pike!!! CONGRATULATIONS. No small feat!!!! WOOT!!~ Another DIVA IN TRAINING.
ReplyDeletePIPER! Don't let me keep you from entering the Rebecca! Who knows what hits the judges just right?
ReplyDeleteDo it!
(Wouldn't it be great to be co-finalists?)
Myra
ReplyDeleteThanks!
Love the story and LOVED getting to share another one of my passions as your research.
I can talk Autism ANY DAY! Those kids and adults are AMAZING! They're families are pretty remarkable too!
So excited for you!!!
Way to go, Pepper!
ReplyDeleteThanks for all the congratulations. They've brightened a day darkened by several conversations with insurance agents, all of which went around in circles (I'm trying to settle a claim from an accident on 12/30/11 which was NOT my fault). I think the end is close but still have questions. Ah well, I'll tackle it Monday morning. The weekend is for relaxation (and maybe a little ironing and oh yeah, I need to clean out my pantry).
ReplyDeleteMarilyn
Helen! You've been in your cave.
ReplyDeleteWell, Marilyn, have a good weekend!!!
ReplyDeleteJan,
ReplyDeleteIt would be awesome to be co-finalists with a talent like you! We'll see...:)
Piper
Yes, Tina.
ReplyDeleteMy Art Fact Sheet cave.
I fell off the contest wagon when an editor began telling me what to do and submit.
ReplyDeleteIt's all good..as in three book contract good, Helen.
ReplyDeleteYou betcha!
ReplyDeleteMarilyn, did you squeeze in the haircut???? :)
ReplyDeleteHelen, AFS!!!! LOVE THEM!!!
Which reminds me, I'm going to have one due soon.
Thank you for the reminder, Helen!!!
Okay, I'm off to enter edits on WIP...
Nose to the grindstone and SO EXCITED TO HAVE A JAMMY DAY WRITING WEEKEND!!!!
SUHWEEEEET!!!! CAN YOU SEE ME HAPPY DANCING?
Tina and Jan,
ReplyDeleteThanks for the feedback. I'll study the contests closer and decide.
I did enter 2 contests in June which was way out of my comfort zone. But while I'm on a roll, maybe I should pick another one.
Thanks again.
What great words from Pepper.
ReplyDeleteLook at all those familiar names in the contest results. Way to go!
Nancy C
Congratulations and good luck to everyone.
ReplyDeleteI'd love to read A HORSEMAN'S HOPE thank you.
MARY CURRY - Congratulations!!!!!!!! A super achievement.
ReplyDeleteNancy C
Yes, ma'am, Ruth. I got that haircut. I've used the same woman to cut my hair since 1981 and she books up quickly, so I already have my August and September appointments booked. This one was my "RWA Conference" cut. The September one is timed right before my trip to Ireland and England. When you wear short hair it has to be cut more often (unless you like being a shaggy dog and I don't *grin*).
ReplyDeleteDidn't get the ironing done today nor did I clean the pantry. I had forgotten I won a $100 gift certificate from a spa and I had a wonderful and relaxing facial this afternoon. Then I went to the artist market at an old textile mill that's been turned into a haven for artists of all mediums. I visited a friend from church who has a painting studio on 3rd floor and then roamed the rest of the place just looking and muttering under my breath "I do not need another pair of earrings I do not need another pair of earrings I do not need another pair of earrings." I came home WITHOUT earrings!
Marilyn