By Rachel Scott McDaniel, @rachelsmcdaniel
When I first started writing, I entered every contest I could. Large ones. Small ones. Needless to say, I also ran the gamut with all the emotions involved—the elation that my entry was a finalist/winner, the disappointment from not making the cut, and on one occasion the agitation with questionable feedback.
So why did I subject myself to entering contest after contest after contest? Because believe it or not, it was good for me. And most likely will be good for you, too. Here’s why:
- Forced me to be brave. I’m not a daring person. Not at all. In high school I loved musical theater. But I would literally break out in hives before a performance. It was not pretty. But I forced one foot in front of the other and went out there. I sang my heart out. Why? Because I loved the art more than I acknowledged the fear. Same goes with writing. It’s scary sending our work out into the big bad world. It’s such a vulnerable feeling. We know our words are going to be judged and scrutinized. But why do we do it? Because we love the art more than playing it safe. Submitting to contests prepares us for the future step of sending our story out for publication.
- Got my story in front of professionals. At the time when I started writing, I had littles and couldn’t attend conferences. I sent out query emails to agents but hadn’t had any luck with responses. Most often, writing contests are judged by agents and editors. Submitting to contests was the perfect avenue to get my work in front of industry professionals. I’ve heard so many success stories from fellow writers about meeting their dream agent/editor via writing contests.
- Found some awesome friends. When I was a finalist in the ACFW Genesis contest, the other finalist reached out to me. Thanks to social media, we messaged each other from there on out. We’ve supported each other’s books. Endorsed each other’s books. By entering a contest, I found myself a sweet friend. It’s scary to step out and submit, but there can be an amazing reward in finding friendships that can last a lifetime.
- Enhanced my discernment. Okay, here’s where things can get a bit iffy. With some contests you get feedback/critiques of your work. This can be fabulous but it can also be a disaster if you’re not prepared. Some judges can be kind, others not so much. Criticism is part of the business. Having a thick-skin is a must. (it also helps to keep chocolate nearby!) And many times you will benefit from the feedback. The best rule of thumb is the safety in numbers. If all the judges are highlighting the same thing, then it’s probably a good idea to change that particular spot. Your story can very well be made stronger!
Entering contests are not for the faint of heart. There may be tears. There may be squeals. But no matter what the finalist list reads, you should consider yourself a winner for being brave enough to submit your work!
Music sparks her world, but can love ignite her heart?
In 1928, soot from the local mills and music from speakeasies linger in the Pittsburgh air. When the manager of The Kelly Club is found dead, nightclub singer Vera Pembroke is thrust into peril. As the only witness to the crime, she’s sentenced to hide away in the Allegheny Forest with a stuffy police sergeant as her guardian.
Sergeant Mick Dinelo harbors a burning hatred for Pittsburgh’s underworld after the devastation it left on his life—and heart. He should be out exposing culpable gangsters rather than tending to the impetuous woman who defies his every effort to keep her safe.
Mick and Vera must set aside their differences to solve the murder that someone wants to keep buried beneath the soot of Steel City.
Rachel Scott McDaniel is an award-winning Christian romance writer. Her stories inspire with faith and heart, yet intrigue with mystery and suspense. Her first novel was nominated for the ACFW Carol Award for best debut. She’s also the winner of the ACFW Genesis Award and the RWA Touched By Love award. Rachel can be found online at www.RachelScottMcDaniel.com and on all social media platforms. Her work is represented by Julie Gwinn of the Seymour Agency. She enjoys life in Ohio with her husband and two kids.