The new year in the writing world often brings a wave of new contests. One of the big ones for unpublished authors of Christian fiction is the Genesis Contest through American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW).
In short, the Genesis Contest evaluates the first 15 pages of an author’s work. There are judging rounds in which semifinalists and then finalists are chosen. Winners are announced at the ACFW Conference every year.
It is because of this upcoming contest (submissions close March 15th) that I was inspired to put together a little editing discount.
I first offered this discount exclusively to ACFW members and subscribers to my newsletter, but now that there are still some spots available, I’m opening the discount to everyone — whether you plan to enter a contest or not. Here are the details:
- What: One content/substantive edit of your first 20 pages (no more than 7,000 words), examining your hook, introduction of characters, POV, desire to keep reading, etc. This will be done using the Genesis Contest Score Sheet as a guide. (Here’s a definition of a content or substantive edit for those of you who want more details. It can also be found on my editorial pricing page.)
“Substantive editing deals with the organization and presentation of existing content. It involves rephrasing for smoothness or to eliminate ambiguity, reorganizing or tightening, reducing or simplifying documentation, recasting tables, and other remedial activities.” (CMS [Chicago Manual of Style] Definition-2.55: Substantive editing [Note: also called content editing])
- How: This will be done using Track Changes. All manuscript exchanges and editing will be done electronically.
- Cost: A $30 flat fee (normally $50.00.) All payment must be made via Paypal.
- Openings: I have 15 open spots remaining and this is offered on a first-come, first-serve basis. If all 15 spots are filled, I will place the remaining requests on a waiting list in the off-chance that some positions open up.
- Why: Because I’ve been there before, trying to polish those first pages on my own. I know how hard it can be. In 2010, I placed first in the ACFW Ohio Hook Me Contest against 41 other participants. I know what a good hook looks like. My goal as an editor is to come alongside fellow authors in their writing and to provide the professional eyes needed to catch the deeper issues.
All submissions will be returned to the authors in the order they are received, no later than March 10th. I will be accepting clients until March 3rd. If you are interested in claiming one of the remaining spots, please e-mail me using my contact page.
Even if you don’t think this particular discount is for you, please share it with any author friends you may have so that they can benefit too. Thank you!
Are you planning to enter your manuscript into any contests this year?
To join my newsletter list for all updates and announcements regarding my books and my editing, click here.
