I mentioned in a previous post that I have a thing for contests. It may be time for me to step back and do things the old fashioned way, but as a PSA to all of you out there in the query trenches, here are a few of the amazing contests coming soon to a blog near you!
1. Pitch Slam
This is Leatrice McKinney’s amazing contest that provides feedback in between rounds. This fall’s theme is Agents of Shield, and I can promise she makes every part of the experience amazing. The entry window for 35 word pitches begins October 4, 2014. You must enter the first round to continue, and the first page window begins on October 6. You’ll get feedback on both, with the chance to revise for the final round on October 9. Click here for more information.
2. Nightmare on Query Street
Michelle, Mike, and SC host this fear themed contest. Along with your query and first 250 words, you must include a short paragraph explaining what your main character is most afraid of. The submission window opens on October 19, 2014. Click here for more information.
3. Baker’s Dozen Agent Auction
Miss Snark’s First Victim, Authoress, hosts this event each year. Submissions include a log line and the first 250 words, and there is a $15 entry fee for this one. There will be three rounds available for log line critiques on September 22, October 6, and October 20. Submission dates for the auction are October 28 and October 30 for adult entries and November 4 and November 6 for YA and MG. Click here for more information.
4. An Agent’s Inbox
Krista Van Dolzer hosts this contest, with submissions of a full query plus the first page. Not for the faint of heart, the agent provides an honest reaction to what works or what doesn’t. September’s agent is Melissa Jeglinski of The Knight Agency. The contest opens Monday, September 22, 2014. Click here for more information.
5. Operation Awesome Mystery Agent
Operation Awesome hosts a mystery agent contest most months of the year. The October lottery is open now until September 25, 2014. Fifty entries will be selected. This month’s agent is looking for MG, YA, women’s fiction, historical fiction, and romance. Entries include a twitter length pitch and the first page of your manuscript. Click here for more information!
6. PitchMas
Hosted by Jessa Russo and Tamara Mataya, this is an awesome December contest. Dates have not yet been set, but you can click here for more information.
Please be sure to check on all the submission guidelines before entering, and feel free to mention any contests I missed in the comments!
Music for today: Butterflies and Hurricanes by Muse
