Free Writer’s Contests

From time to time I receive a lot of messages from people who are aspiring authors seeking advice on how to become published. And I always find that a tricky questions because becoming published in my opinion is all about luck. One day you might run into an editor who loves your voice, but then come across dozens who hate it. So, it’s all a huge waiting game.

However, while you’re waiting for NY or a smaller publication to call there is a great avenue for an aspiring author to take…(drum roll please) And that’s entering FREE writing contests hosted by various review sites, authors, and even publishers. So if any of you are interested here’s a list of a few FREE writing contests that are currently available for you to try your chomps at:

2009 Manic Readers Romance Novel Writing Contest

Entries will be accepted between January 3, 2009 and February 28, 2009. All entries must be written to the theme of “Men in Uniform” and the heat level is steamy! This is a novel length (80k – 100k) contest. Entry length of the excerpt is 1000 words (computer count). Entries over 1000 words will be disqualified. Excerpt can be any part of the story as long as it follows the above theme. Excerpt must be from a new, not yet published, manuscript.

For more information: http://www.manicreaders.com/index.cfm?disp=authorContest

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Rachelle Chase & Leigh Michaels To Chase a Dream Contest:

From December 1, 2008 to March 3, 2009, submit the first 1,000 words or less of an unpublished romance, chick lit, or mainstream fiction with romantic elements novel/novella. Each Wednesday, from January 14, 2009 to March 4, 2009, Rachelle Chase will select a finalist from that week’s entries and post the entry on the Finalists page. Visitors are invited to post comments.

NOTE: I entered this one last year and had my manuscript requested by both an agent and editor.

For more information go to: chasethedreamcontest.wordpress.com

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Writers & Illustrators of the Future Contest

(This one isn’t exactly free you have to order the book to see how to enter:(

Open to those who have not professionally published a novel or short novel, or more than one novelette, or more than 3 short stories in any medium. Professional publication is deemed to be payment and at least 5,000 copies or 5,000 hits. The Writers & Illustrators of the Future Contest has launched the careers of over 500 new writers and illustrators. The winning authors have published more than 500 novels and over 1,400 short stories since winning the contest.

If you would like to find out about more contests which range between $15-$50, check out Stephie Smith’s Contest Calendar at http://www.stephiesmith.com/contests.html