“Birthday Celebration” by Cédric Boismain | Copyright 2013
Last week, I asked you to weigh in on what my birthday giveaway prize should be. The results are in, which means it’s time for the actual giveaway to kick off. First, thank you to everyone who voted. Your input definitely swayed my decision, as I always find those kinds of insights exceedingly fascinating.
So, what were the results? Well, some of you may have clicked on the little button at the bottom of the poll to find out, and therefore already know. But for those who didn’t, here’s the breakdown:
By and large, everyone went exactly for the prize I suspected — the full edit giveaway. I really wasn’t surprised by this, as I know a large portion of my audience is comprised of writers, and editing is one of the most expensive parts of the publishing process. Who wouldn’t jump at the chance to get that for free?
But, in a surprising turn of events, the reader’s choice of three print editions from the REUTS Publications library came in a close second. Okay, maybe not that close, but still. I wasn’t expecting readers to make up such a large portion of my audience. I mean, obviously, everyone loves free books too, but I was pretty sure the editorial service options would dominate. Consider me schooled. 😉
Okay, let’s get to the fun, shall we? Here are the prizes (yes multiple) I’m giving away this year, along with the rules/stipulations for each.
Prize #1: A Full Edit Package (Structural edits, line edits, & proofreading)
To the surprise of exactly no one, I took your resounding suggestion and am offering the prize most of you said you wanted. However, there are a few things you have to do to qualify for it.
- You must have a completed manuscript, or one that will be completed by May 31st, 2015.
- If you have previously won a read report or other prize from me, you are allowed to enter the same manuscript here. Should you win, that previous prize will be upgraded; if you don’t, no worries, you still have the prize from before.
- While I will try my best to provide a reasonable turnaround time, this is a volunteer/pro bono gig, and as such, will be subject to the whims of my schedule. Which means that there may be times when I will not be able to work on your project, and you will need to be okay with that. If that’s not something you’re willing to do, then might I suggest opting for one of the other prizes instead. 😉
Prize #2: Winner’s Choice of 3 Print Edition REUTS Publications Titles
Since this one was almost as popular as the first choice, it seemed only fair that I include it as well. The difference being that two people will have a chance at scoring this one. But, just like above, there are some rules.
- You are allowed to choose any three books from the REUTS Publications Library (including the hardcover anthology), but they have to have been released in print by the time the contest concludes.
- The exception to the above rule is Off Book by Jessica Dall. It will be released in paperback shortly after the end of the contest, so it will be included as well, with the clarification that choosing this one may result in a slight delay.
And that’s pretty much all there is to it. Thank you again to all of you — for your votes, for your support, and for just being plain old awesome. The giveaway will end at midnight on 5/8/15 and the winner’s will be announced that day. Best of luck!
Nightwolf A.D.E. 
Happy 3rd Birthday! As an unagented author, I love any advice that could be helpful in getting an agent and becoming a published author.
Thank you! 🙂
I don’t think I’ve done too much on agents yet, since that’s a different side of the spectrum than what I currently do. But I do know people . . . maybe I’ll see if I can rustle up some guest posts on the topic. Thanks for the suggestion!
I was thinking in general terms that would include how to strengthen your ms from an editors point of view, etc. that would also make my work appealing to agents as well.
Okay, that’s fair, and most certainly on the roster of things to talk about. Still, the agent angle might lend itself to some interesting insight, so I’ll still see if I can’t make something come of that too. 😉
Thanks for this amazing contest! You are always so helpful and encouraging.
Thank you! You are as well; thanks for always supporting my endeavors. 😉
Hey, about suggesting topics for advice. I have the worst trouble coming up with a compelling title for my Sci-Fi. That vies with what to put on the cover. There are a multitude of cover artists, but each should have some direction since most have not and never will read the book. I’ve read lots about how important these items are, but don’t feel I have the hang off either yet.
So, more information on choosing titles and cover design. All right. I’ll make a note of those. Cover design isn’t my realm, but fortunately, I happen to be best friends with a certain talented lady responsible for the brilliant designs at REUTS. She did a post series once about it. Perhaps I’ll dredge that up from the archives again, or ask that she swing by with more information. Thank you for the suggestion!
Kisa, What great prizes you’re offering 🙂
Love your “how to” content and helpful tips. Always informative – even the archived stuff because some articles are a first pass for me !
Thanks Elsie! Glad to know there is still some value in re-posting those old articles. I had hoped that was the case, but you never know. 😉
Happy Bloganniversary!!! As always I enjoy every post you feature, especially the advice on the publishing world and the genres. 🙂
Thank you! I’m sensing a trend in the comments — more publishing/writing related tips and tricks. Thankfully, that’s a well that rarely runs dry, so I bet I’ll be able to make it happen. Thanks for supporting the giveaway! 🙂
Oh goodness, I remember last year’s like it was– actually no that feels like forever ago. I think my favorite content on this blog is editing related. However, really anything you feel passionate about is something I always want to check out.
Thanks so much, Tiffany! And thank you for always helping to support my giveaways. It’s very much appreciated. Best of luck! 🙂
Happy Blog Birthday!! Thanks for another great contest. I wish every one good luck but I seriously hope I win. Lol 🙂
Thanks, Kelly! And good luck! This one is looking to be far more popular than I was anticipating. It’ll be interesting to see what the Random Algorithm Gods decide. 🙂
Happy Bloganniversary.b-day!!! I love any tidbits of advice that helps writers become even better writers. I love that you’re doing this pay-it-forward whether I win or not.
Thank you! I appreciate that. And best of luck in the giveaway! 🙂
Hi! Happy 3rd birthday! I’m new here but so far I’ve enjoyed the writing/editing/publishing content but I liked the defining the sub-genres posts too. 😀
Thank you for your feedback! And welcome. I hope you’ll continue to stick around and that my content continues to be helpful to you. Best of luck!
Congratulations Kisa on your 3 years with this amazing blog! Thank you for your perspective as an editor and writer. Keep going strong!
Thank you! I can’t believe it’s been 3 years already. For someone who never expected to blog in the first place, I’m pretty impressed with myself. Haha. Here’s to many more years and continued growth! Good luck in the giveaway!
My Favorite is anything about editorial tibits. I’m always on constant lookout for your advise!
That does seem to be the consensus. Good thing I have a bunch more of them planned, then, isn’t it? 😉
Thanks for commenting, and best of luck in the giveaway!
Any tips on editing and common problems you see is always a help! I am constantly learning (as we all are) this new world I’ve entered.
And a happy third birthday to you! Wow, what a generous gift!
Thank you so much! And best of luck in the giveaway! Winners will be announced tomorrow. 🙂