I’m feeling giddy today. That’s better than last night when I was nearly intolerable. DB was tired of me randomly saying “I’m a finalist” and giggling as we watched TV. Yes, I just found out that I have finaled in the On the Far Side Contest sponsored by the Fantasy, Futuristic and Paranormal RWA chapter. The contest is a quick one and I’ll find out how I did by Halloween. The judge for my category is an agent, which is good for me, since this book is the one that’s already with an editor. I'm prouder than usual about this because a paranormal final in a pararormal contest sponsored and judged by paranormal writers seems to have a certain legitimacy about it. I may be entirely wrong. Regardless, its not huge news, but a little victory to give me a little pick-me-up that I needed. At least, until I get the score sheets back...
Of course, the next biggie is the Golden Heart. The deadline is nearly upon us. This time last year, I was lamenting how I’d never get FE finished in time. Since then, although I missed GH, I not only finished, but have the full on a desk in NYC as we speak. The sequel is written (although not fully edited) and I’ve got three contest finals under my belt for it. It may just be ready for the GH this year. Just have to work up the nerve to spend the $50 and know I’m pretty much throwing it away.
I have no expectations that I will actually final, much less win, but I feel the need to enter anyway. I have grand dreams of sitting in the auditorium (in the VIP section!), clutching a battered piece of paper with my speech written on it in the hopes my name is called. My dress is fabulous, my shoes are perfect – sparkly, but sensible, so I don’t end up being ‘the girl that tripped.’ To see my picture and the title of my book up on the big screen while everyone claps. Then to hear my name called and walk up onto the stage to the loud music while the Playground and HOD cheering section gives the Wet Noodle Posse a run for their money. Having my idols sit in the audience and listen to me talk, ramble and cry for my allocated 30 seconds of glory. Having random strangers congratulate me at the dessert party as I strut around with my gold pin...
Back to reality...it’s a nice thought. I’ll throw my hat in the ring this year and see what happens. If FE were to sell soon (not holding my breath) this might be my last chance to win a GH. Then it’s on to the RITAs (definitely not holding my breath).
So, what about you? Are you planning to enter the Golden Heart or RITAs this year? Do you have your speech ready (admit it, you know you do...)? Care to share a few lines? :) If not, any other big contests on the horizon for you? For the lucky few that have made a GH or RITA speech - say anything stupid or forget someone important, a la Hillary Swank?
SP
(I'm not posting my revision challenge, because the numbers haven't changed from last week. So, phooey.)
11 comments:
All this talk about the GH and the Rita makes me feel silly. I'm still trying to get up the nerve to send off a contest entry for the first time. I'm up late fixating on every aspect of it. With your contest finals, you are definitely ready to send in your ms to the GH, SP! Don't delay! Your book is an awesome read! And so I say, get that acceptance speech written and keep it handy. You'll need it.
Kathy
(Hoping to be in the audience jumping up and down when you win.)
I'm not entering the GH this year. I don't have a new book finished, and I doubt I'll have time to get it finished before the deadline. GH is a big deal--so many entrants, so many good books. Yours is also very good SP, so send it on in!
Just remember to thank the Playfriends and the Mavens when you're up there...
LJ, I'm in awe of your RITA as you know. I still have my RITA--my chocolate one from Reno. It's still holding up and not too gross, although AC cannot understand why I'd have chocolate and not eat it...
Wow, LJ - that cover is awesome! Which offspring is this one about??
SP
I love you cover, Linda! It's in keeping with your other books and the hero on the cover 'radiates' magnetism.
Kathy
Unless they let me slap together all my unsold short stories as a "Best of Marilyn's Confessions" anthology, there's no GH entry for me either. :grin:
Congrats again to SP for her contest final.
And we're waiting with bated breath for more Rita stories, Linda. That cover is beautiful! I love purple anyway.
PM
OMG! I judged your entry. It was FREAKIN' AWESOME! I had a hard time finding things to comment on, and I am not an easy judge. So, no need to fear my scoresheet. (149)
I really do think OTFS is THE contest for paranormal. It's one where you know the judges like and GET paranormal. It's the only one I ever do well in (not that I enter many). I finaled in time travel this year! I was thinking of entering the GH myself but if FE is my competition, I'm not so sure now. :) You should definitely enter!
I am keeping virtual fingers crossed for a SALE because I'd love to read the rest! Good luck!
Oooh! I love that cover LJ. So intense.
GH. I actually just came to the decision last night that I'm going to enter 2 books. I'm going to finish the partial I'm working on and send it out. Then buckle down and finish the rest of it. I'll have to bust my rear in order to make the deadline but the fact that I've got 4 or 5 chapters at the middle of the book already done will help.
Instigator
Woo hoo! I have a fan! And she was my judge...even better! Thanks, Jeanette!
SP
Congratulations on your final, SP!
As for the contests, I always think that I should enter more, but ultimately never do. I enter the RITA's and that's it.
Hey, congrats on your contest finals! Those make for wonderful days, don't they? Enjoy it!
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