Writing Contests

As the editorial director of Intrigue Publishing I submit our books for various contests. Today I got to send five of our latest releases to the International Thriller Writers for their annual awards. Could one of our novels be chosen as best paperback original or first novel of the year? And what if they are?                                                                                                                                          While I believe that one of our books really might be the best thriller of the year, I harbor no illusions that we are likely to beat out the publishing giants who send all their books in as well (unless one year Deaver, Gilstrap, Heather Graham, et al decide to take a year off writing.) However, the judging is blind and there are tons of books to judge so you never know when an unknown might get placed on the list of nominees. I say this from experience: I was one of the paperback judges one year and it is a monumental job! But aside from ego gratification, what does an author get from such contests.
I don’t honestly think readers really care if your book wins an ITW award, or an Edgar award or a Bram Stoker or a Hugo. I don’t think these awards do much for sales – at least not directly.
What they DO nudge is the industry’s opinion of a writer. Winning one of these awards makes publishers, agents and editors view you differently. They make reviewers more likely to comment on your next work. They make book sellers more likely to want to carry your books. So, they do matter.
These awards also give the publisher a boost. A big win like the ITW awards would enhance our brand in the eyes of all those same industry professionals. It says we know how to pick a winner. It shines a positive light on all the rest of our line. We have had books win conference awards (the Love is Murder Lovey, the Deadly Ink best mystery award, etc.,) so now we’re chasing the bigger wins.
Writers should not be misled by awards that require them to pay a fee to be considered. Because entrants are only competing against others who decided to pay that fee, being named “best” has much less value. Industry professionals pay little attention to those contests.
So, authors, get your books up for the important awards, and encourage your publisher to put you on those lists. And give me a comment if you’ve won something and let us know how it has affected your writing career.