There are now over 50 paragraphs entered in the 6th Stupendously Ultimate First Paragraph Challenge! I have much respect for all the brave souls who have entered thus far.
If you haven’t entered yet: um why not? Go for it! You have a chance to win a query critique and a $100 gift certificate to your favorite independent bookstore. Plus: PRIDE.
You have until Friday, 7pm ET to summon your courage.
A few updates and random thoughts:
- Ever wondered what a literary agent’s inbox looks like? Reading the contest entries is one of the best ways of seeing what it’s like to read queries and excerpts over and over.
- (Although to be honest the quality of these entries is far greater than the average inbox. If you’re reading a publishing blog you’re already ahead of 50% of the other people agents hear from).
- Keeping up with tradition, here’s a word cloud of the entries so far!
- Oh yes, don’t forget to grab a copy of the 2nd Edition of my guide to writing a novel, which was released yesterday! Audiobook coming soon!
Have you been reading the entries? What do you think so far?
Need help with your book? Iām available for manuscript edits, query critiques, and coaching!
For my best advice, check out my guide to writing a novel (now available in audio) and my guide to publishing a book.
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From: The Last Time You Fall, Three Weeks When Love Meant Everything And Acceptance Meant More.
A Double Memoir by Neil Larkins
“She hates my guts, that much is clear. So what’s stopped her from slapping my face? She hasn’t because…well, you’ll see.”
Some super compelling and gorgeous entries, for sure.
I lot of intriguing openings! As with past contests, it’s also interesting to see trends/patterns emerge š
Good luck to everyone who entered!