So it looks like I didn’t final in another contest. Out of the past thirteen I entered, I’ve finalled in one. That can get pretty depressing, especially since I thought I was getting better, not worse. In 2003 I finalled in 7 contests with 5 manuscripts. Worse, some of those finalling manuscripts haven’t been able to repeat. So what is going on?

I’d like to say competition is more fierce, but frankly, my scores aren’t that good. Are the judges getting pickier? The scoresheets too detailed? I wish I could figure it out. And in at least two of the 13 contests, including the Golden Heart, one judge knocked me out of the running.

Why do I keep entering? There is nothing like the validation when you get that call or email. Since I’m waiting for word on my two novels at Intimate Moments and another novel with Harlequin American, contest deadlines give me something to look forward to. And then I hear someone else finalling in that contest and I’m on pins and needles till the finalist list is posted. It’s not a pleasant sensation.

So why do I have three more contests bookmarked? Let’s just say I’m a glutton for punishment.