Does the story you're planning have everything it needs? Are your characters' goals motivating enough? Is the plot thick enough, the conflict strong enough? Will your subplot work, the climax thrill, the black moment agonize? Is the resolution logical and fulfilling? Analyze your synopsis, using the judges' score sheet as a guide, then:
SEND IN:
- 6 copies of your 10-page (maximum) synopsis of a book-length fiction work, standard manuscript format (double-spaced, 1" margins, pages numbered), good quality photocopies or computer printout. Be sure to include category/genre and projected word count. Entries with author's name on any manuscript page will be disqualified.
- One title page with author's name, address, phone number, manuscript title, and first sentence.
- One Self Address and Stamped 9"x12" (or larger) envelope with adequate postage attached for return of all six entry copies, score sheets, and certificate. (Optional: SAS postcard if confirmation of entry is desired.) Critiqued copies, score sheets, and certificate will not be returned without adequate postage.
- SIGNED CONTEST WAIVER AND ENTRY FEE - $15.00, check or money order, US funds, to Coeur de Louisiane, Inc. Coeur de Louisiane members remit $12.00.
Click here to go to the Contest Waiver page.
DEADLINE: Received by February 1, 2001
JUDGING:
- Preliminary: Each entry judged by three experienced writers, at least one of whom will be a published author.
- Final: Top five entries judged by a multi-published author, an editor, and an agent.
- NOTE: Although there are no categorical divisions for this contest, most of the judges will be romance authors.
PRIZES:
- Winner: $50.00;
- Second Place: $25.00;
- Third Place: $15.00
- Fourth and Fifth Places: Honorable Mention Certificates
- All entrants receive participation certificates.
Winners will be announced at the 2001 Belles, Beaux, and Bayous Writers Conference. Score sheets, entries, and certificates will be mailed to all entrants the following week.
ELIGIBILITY:
- Contest open to all writers who are unpublished and uncontracted in book-length fiction as of the entry deadline.
- Also open to previously published authors not currently under contract and who have not sold a manuscript of book-length fiction for a minimum of three years prior to the entry deadline.
- Winning "Writing 101" synopses (1st-3rd) from previous years are not eligible for entry.
- Winners may submit new synopses if all other eligibility requirements are met.
If there are any questions, send an e-mail to Sue Morgan at Ksmorgan30@aol.com
SEND ENTRIES TO: (Note: This address has not been picked yet.)
Sue Morgan, Coordinator
"Writing 101" Synopsis Contest
301 Galway Drive
Shreveport, LA 71115
Scoresheet
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