Judge Not by Eric Beetner

What are your thoughts on book contests? Do you believe winning one can further your career? Which ones, if any, do you enter?

I have benefitted from a contest, albeit a short story contest. It was quite a long time ago for an online zine that no longer exists. From that win, I got my first agent. Contests can be a great way to get recognized and to meet people. I have cynical views on some of them, however. 

First and foremost: do not, under any circumstances, ever, ever, not ever, PAY A FEE to e...