This is topic WotF Critique Group -- 2013 Q03 in forum Hatrack Groups at Hatrack River Writers Workshop.


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Posted by WriterDan (Member # 6456) on :
 
This is a critique group for writers that will be entering a story into the third quarter of 2013 in the Writers of the Future contest (30th year). Anyone is welcome to join, but please follow the directions below for doing such.

Currently, the group is empty.

If you want to join the group this quarter, please post the current members list in a reply to this post with your name added at the bottom.

Tentative deadlines for this quarter are as follows:

Mar 1st: Start writing
Apr 14th: First drafts out for crits
May 7th: Second drafts out for crits
May 31st: Mail in final drafts

[Note: The official entry deadline for this quarter is June 30th; however, this group's deadlines are set up so that all entries can be entered well before the deadline and hopefully beat the rush at the end of the quarter.]

When you send out drafts for critique, please do so in a generic format so that everyone will be able to open your file. (eg. rtf, txt, pdf. doc and docx [Microsoft Word] files are usually okay too, but you may get asked to resend in a generic format.) Also, please try keep to proper manuscript format so that we can all learn how these things should be correctly submitted. Last, we swap stories via email with addresses listed in the forum. So, be sure to keep your email address current on your profile here at Hatrack. The entire group of entrants this quarter will be split into smaller subgroups when it comes to critting. The subgroups should be in the realm of 4-7 people. So don't get too worried if the size of the whole group gets pretty big.

Also, a word about story limits. The officially published limitation for a Writers of the Future short-story submission is 17,000 words. There is, however, also a page-space limit that comes into play because of hard-copy publication issues. Thus there is an unpublished and fairly-hard limit of 68 pages of properly-formatted manuscript (check out the Vonda McIntyre link below). So when you're writing your entry, be sure to keep both of these story limits in mind.

Finally, (and I know that for some of you this will go without saying) if you sign up to swap stories and/or give critiques please give a full critique of the full story. Don't bail on a story just because it "isn't for you". If there is too much violence/profanity/sex in a story, you have the right to stop reading, make a comment saying so, and return the story to the author unfinished (this is what the Wotf judges will do, after all. Well, minus the comment.). Otherwise, please be respectful of the unspoken agreement that we each make to give a full, valid critique to every member of the group that submits a story. Also, try not to do too much re-writing in your crits. It gets tedious sometimes if there are more than just a few examples, and we're all pretty smart here. [Wink] Thanks.

Sign up now, and let's get busy writing!

Helpful links:

WotF Submission Guidelines
WotF Blog
Kathy Wentworth's comments about judging
Short story advice from David Wolverton
Axeminister's WotF critique helps
Manuscript Preparation by Vonda N. McIntyre
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
LDWriter2


Hey, I get to be first...

or is this second counting Dan?

In either case yea. [Smile]

And in either case my story is written already for a first too.


Well, actually I have used other already written stories but those where older stories already sent out a couple of times this is a fresh story already written.
 
Posted by Utahute72 (Member # 9057) on :
 
And I'm still working on Q2.
 
Posted by RyanB (Member # 10008) on :
 
LDWriter2
RyanB
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
This is a note for any thinking of doing a story for Q3.

Dr. Bob this may also reply to your last note on the Q1 thread.


Over on the WotF forum there are some There is a thread that is titled why David rejects stories HERE and One Post
And


There is another one but I can't find it. Not sure how the last two links will work.

Anyway here is a short list of what David wants culled from his Kicks in the pants, and two discussions people have had with him.

He does think longer works are better because you can do more but short works are not impossible.
Name the MC within a page or less.
Three maybe four try-fail cycles.
Variety He thinks the anthology should have lots of different types of stories--he stresses this more than the late Ms Wentworth did. So he would reject a story no matter how good it is if he already has a couple of the same type. But make it a semi-finalist though.
Setting which includes the five or more senses. Evidently he has a Kick out that discusses seven of them.
No F- bombs even though a couple of lesser cuss words probably would be Okay. If there is a F-bomb he might give you the chance to take it out.
No blood and guts just for the sake of shocking or to get attention.
On the variety he would take most any type of story. But he mentioned that there isn't enough humor stories and Medieval fantasy.

There is more but this should help.
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
Found the missing post.

It's Here
 
Posted by Brendan (Member # 6044) on :
 
Thanks for the tips LD.

I noted that usbergo stated

"- he usually strives for genre diversity in the finalist stories--one hard sci-fi, one space opera, one contemporary fantasy, one traditional fantasy, one horror, one paranormal, one comedy, etc. (those aren’t necessarily the genre categories he looks for, the point is that he strives for diversity in the finalists)"

It would be interesting to see if the winners are also this diverse. Given previous comments by KDW about the lack of hard science fiction, in reference to creating material in line with the judges tastes, it would be interesting to see if the winners had a bias in styles. Will the one hard science fiction story in each quarter be chosen by the judges?
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
I'm in.
Fingers crossed I'll have the first draft done by 14 April.

Respectfully,
Dr. Bob

[ March 28, 2013, 07:55 AM: Message edited by: History ]
 
Posted by snapper (Member # 7299) on :
 
Hey Doc,

There is a chance, small as it may be, that you are risking disqualification. The contest used to take great pains at preserving the anonymity of the entries. Even though you haven't shown the title, you left enough details so if a judge (say OSC) were to read your post, they'd have a pretty good idea which story is yours.

I recommend you delete your last post, sir.
 
Posted by Kathleen Dalton Woodbury (Member # 59) on :
 
Hmm, I thought Dr. Bob was describing his next effort (the first draft to be done by 14 April).
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
Oops

Looks like I was wrong. Sorry about that.

but the Finalist Q1 tale may not fit in with the genre diversity.

Of course I've read his Q1 story and if it's the same one he sent out I don't think it fits that many genres. Maybe two, possibly three not all five though probably not four well maybe not three, I think two but maybe not, it does one but three at that or was it just two?

[ March 28, 2013, 10:00 AM: Message edited by: LDWriter2 ]
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
Snapper, I was being facetious, but I took your counsel and omitted it.

LD, will you also edit/delete the first line of your last (above) post, please?

Respectfully,
Dr. Bob
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
So who's ready to declare now?


Or in other words who is going for it Now?
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
quote:
Originally posted by LDWriter2:
So who's ready to declare now?
Or in other words who is going for it Now?

"Well, I do declare," Ellie Mae said, her bosom heaving. She placed her hands on her hips. "Whatever is Louis up to now?"

Um...I mean...what are we "to declare" or "going for", LD?

I hope to have my first ragged and rough draft completed Thursday and perhaps ready to share over the weekend after a first go-over snipping the most obvious annoying threads--if anyone who is interest.

Respectfully,
Dr. Bob
 
Posted by Osiris (Member # 9196) on :
 
Dr. Bob, we've never traded manuscripts before, so send it along if you like. I just started work on my own short, and would love your input if you are interested in an exchange.
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
Sure, Osiris. I'd love to swap.
At present it looks like the only participants for our WOTF Critique Group-2013 Q3 are:

LDWriter
RyanB
Me (History/Dr. Bob)
You (Osiris)

Respectfully,
Dr. Bob
 
Posted by Osiris (Member # 9196) on :
 
I think you just added me to the group. Lol. Okay, I guess I'm in. We are hitting crunch-time at Triangulation so I may be a little slow in responding, but I will!
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
(oh!). Sorry, Osiris.
I ass-u-me(d) you were tossing your story into the ring.

If you're busy and would prefer just a one-on-one swap, that's fine, too.

Respectfully,
Dr. Bob
 
Posted by Osiris (Member # 9196) on :
 
Let's see where I'm at in two weeks. If the group remains small, I may toss my story into the ring. Otherwise one-to-one may be better.
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
To declare for this quarter.

As in I do declare my good Doctor I'm going for the writing project with the quaint name of Q3.

Unless, we're talking about third generation of a certain super powered godlike aliens.

She places her hand in front of her face to fan it, "In that case I do declare it's getting a bit hot in here I must go outside for some air."
 
Posted by Jed Anderson (Member # 9863) on :
 
I'm game.

Hows this all work?
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
quote:
Originally posted by Jed Anderson:
I'm game.
Hows this all work?

Hi, Jed.

See Writer Dan's opening post regarding the time table for participants to have their first (and, later, second) drafts ready for critique.

The number of Members participating will determine how (or if) we break into groups. I like it when there are at least two Groups so I get different feedback between the two drafts. However, there is just a few of us so far:

LDWriter
RyanB
History/Dr. Bob
Osiris (maybe)
You (Jed)

...and the first draft deadline is only 11 days away (April 14th).

I am assuming you are familiar with WOTF and their requirements and submission schedule. If not, see: http://www.writersofthefuture.com/contest-rules
Also, reading prior volumes to get a sense of what types of stories they publish I believe is helpful.
e.g. http://www.amazon.com/Writers-Future-Volume-Hubbard-Presents/dp/1619860767/ref=pd_sim_b_1

I just completed my messy first draft and hope I won't hate it when I reread it. In any case, I'll need to clean it up a bit before sending it out even for first critique. If anyone other than Osiris is interested, please let me know.

Respectfully,
Dr. Bob
 
Posted by A Yeatts (Member # 9500) on :
 
Sure... why not?
Anna [Smile]


LDWriter
RyanB
History/Dr. Bob
Osiris (?)
Jed
AYeatts
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
I think six would be good enough to split into two groups.
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
Alright, LD. In order then, should the two groups be:

Group 1:
LDWriter
RyanB
History/Dr. Bob

Group 2:
Osiris (?)
Jed
AYeatts

?

If so, I'll send my ragged first draft out to Osiris, Jed, and AYeatts later.

Respectfully,
Dr. Bob
 
Posted by Jed Anderson (Member # 9863) on :
 
Sounds good. Who do I send mine to? Not quite finished with my short, but it's almost there.
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
quote:
Originally posted by History:
Alright, LD. In order then, should the two groups be:

Group 1:
LDWriter
RyanB
History/Dr. Bob

Group 2:
Osiris (?)
Jed
AYeatts

?

If so, I'll send my ragged first draft out to Osiris, Jed, and AYeatts later.

Respectfully,
Dr. Bob

Hmm, Dr. Bob I hate to tell you this but, um, it won't be ragged or a first draft by the time you send it those three.


But wait until you see my ragged first draft.
 
Posted by Jed Anderson (Member # 9863) on :
 
On average, what are the lengths of the piece that are sent in?
 
Posted by Osiris (Member # 9196) on :
 
Okay, with only 6 ppl in this quarter, I'll throw my hat in the ring, we can remove the ? mark from my name. I probably won't make any of the deadlines save the last. [Smile]
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
quote:
Originally posted by Jed Anderson:
Who do I send mine to?...On average, what are the lengths of the piece that are sent in?

Jed, you'd send your first draft to the members of Group 1 (LD, Ryan, and I). Your final draft I believe goes to your fellow Group 2 members. Is this right, LD?

Group 1:
LDWriter
RyanB
History/Dr. Bob

Group 2:
Osiris
Jed
AYeatts

Story lengths vary, but the WOTF cut-off is 17K words. I'd say most tend to write stories under 10K. I have tended to be the exception--though not this time, I am pleased to say. [Smile]

Respectfully,
Dr. Bob
 
Posted by Utahute72 (Member # 9057) on :
 
OK, any chance I can sneak in?
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
quote:
Originally posted by Utahute72:
OK, any chance I can sneak in?

Fine with me. Pick a group and relist the names with yours at the end of one.

Respectfully,
Dr. Bob
 
Posted by Utahute72 (Member # 9057) on :
 
Group 1
LDWriter
RyanB
History/Dr.Bob
Utahute72

Group 2
Osiris
Jed
AYeatts

Due to lack of imagination I took group 1.
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
Been revising my story--it won't be ragged any more [Smile]

Well, it won't as ragged that is.


But for those whose stories I've critted I found a very nice, overly long sentence. Egads it took up almost half the paragraph it was in, had two but-s. Had to split it into two and I ended up deleting part of it.

Not to mention I also found this phrase "a very darker area" which is no long there.
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
Okay, Group 2.

Story draft sent. Let me know if you do not receive it or if you cannot open it (.docx). If the latter, please instruct me on what file format you prefer.
Thank you.

Respectfully,
Dr. Bob
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
Oh, are we doing it differently this time?


That's Okay if we are.

Or did I miss something?

Oh, drat that reminds me if anyone wants to send me a story they will have to let me send them an E-mail first. So leave a note here.
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
Hi, LD.

I don't recall how "last time" worked, or I don't remember as I've participated too infrequently (or I'm just getting old). That is why I asked you above (post April 05, 2013 10:53 PM).

I assumed Group 1 sends firsties to Group 2, and then finals to within their own Group.
Was this bass-ackwards?

It has only been 7 hours since I sent my story. I can tell Osiris, Jed, and Anna to ignore it and resend it to Group 1 instead. Whatever you like.

Note: Osiris just informed me I should have sent the story to Group 1 instead. So I will, and have asked for his, Jed, and Anna's forgiveness and also asked they delete the story I sent them. Therefore, heads up Group 1. Incoming!

Respectfully,
Dr. Bob

[ April 07, 2013, 08:06 AM: Message edited by: History ]
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
P.S. Except your email link doesn't work for me, LD.
 
Posted by A Yeatts (Member # 9500) on :
 
Dr. Bob, I received your story and you are quite easily forgiven. If only all my unsolicited email were so well written. I look forward to reading for you next round!

Anna [Smile]
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
First of all: It's okay to me if we decide to do it differently, I would just like to know so I don't do it you know what backwards.

But usually we send it the group we are in first, again if we decide to do it the other way that's fine. We need a shoulder shrug smilie.

Second of all: Yeah, I know my link doesn't work--got a problem with the password here--so I will send you my new E-mail address.

Third of all: I'm not surprised by Anna's comment--wish that could be said about my writing.
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
Another sentence that is no more.

"Pulled it up and out when she coxit." I know the context but I have no idea what this means.

Maybe I typed it out one of the times I was falling asleep during lunch.
 
Posted by Utahute72 (Member # 9057) on :
 
So did we finally make a decision as to where the stories are going?
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
quote:
Originally posted by Utahute72:
So did we finally make a decision as to where the stories are going?

Yes.
Stick to convention (now that this has been explained to me)"
First drafts go to members of your own group by April 14th.
The subsequent revised draft will go to the other Group.

Respectfully,
Dr. Bob
 
Posted by Utahute72 (Member # 9057) on :
 
Thanks. I did get your story Dr. Bob, just so you know.
 
Posted by A Yeatts (Member # 9500) on :
 
I'm working on Jed's story now. Osiris, send whenever you're ready. Mine will be at least a few more days.

Anna
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
I got the Good Doctor's.

But mine will take a couple of more days. I'm almost through with the first revision but I decided I need a second to work on something specific.
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
Hey, tomorrow's the deadline for sharing first drafts.
Send them my way, LD and Ryan and Utahute. I'd love to get a start on them tomorrow if they are ready, because I'm working the next 12 days without break and short-staffed with my younger partners taking the school vacation week off, which will slow me down.

Respectfully,
Dr. Bob
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
I'm still redoing mine. Well, just parts of it. Most is okay but I added a plot point and I need to make sure it fits in okay.

At the same time I am revising a longer story I want to send next weekend. It's two weeks late on a personal deadline so I want to get it out. But I will work on the WotF one tonight and tomorrow, but then I need to spell and proofreader check it that could take up to an hour altogether.
 
Posted by Osiris (Member # 9196) on :
 
Just an FYI, I'll be late as well. I had two stories to critique for my live group last week, and I'm working through the slush at Triangulation. Ten more stories left on my queue. I can always re-prioritize things so if anyone gets to the point where my crit is the last one they are waiting for please let me know.
My story will probably go out to everyone in two weeks.
 
Posted by mbwood (Member # 9525) on :
 
Hello,

Time got away with me while struggling with getting up to speed on a new gadget. I'm running behind (on almost everything), and wonder if I can join the group late...?

I see that Osiris is running late, too. So, can I submit a week late?

Thanks for your consideration. mbwood
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
I'm only one here but I don't mind mb, that seems to happen every quarter so it's nothing new or strange. [Big Grin]
 
Posted by WriterDan (Member # 6456) on :
 
Looks like we are already sorted out for the quarter, but thought that I post this just for posterity's sake. [Smile]

Group 1:
LDWriter
RyanB
History/Dr.Bob
Utahute72

Group 2:
Osiris
Jed
AYeatts
mbwood

As has been mentioned:
If you're listed in Group 1, send your stories to Group 1 this time around.
If you're listed in Group 2, send your stories to Group 2 this time around.
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
Okay, sent mine.

And I'm over half way done with Dr. Bob's which I think might be his best writing so far. That is all I will say about it except I think it's got everything it needs for David.


Speaking of best writing. I think mine is good writing--maybe not my best but close-but I've thought that before. Once one critter agreed with me even though an editor hasn't yet.

It has try-fail cycles, setting, the five human senses--even though evidently David thinks there seven of them--a clear problem and a hopefully a fine conclusion. And maybe that extra something that makes it great writing--we shall see though.
 
Posted by A Yeatts (Member # 9500) on :
 
Finished mine last night. Will get it sent out this morning to Jed, Osiris, and mbwood. Thanks guys!

Anna
 
Posted by Brendan (Member # 6044) on :
 
I'm far from ready with my story, but I am willing to join a group for an extra pair of eyes, if you want? That way I wouldn't feel guilty asking for a last minute read like last quarter. [Smile]
 
Posted by A Yeatts (Member # 9500) on :
 
Jump on in, Brendan. We're happy to have you!
 
Posted by Osiris (Member # 9196) on :
 
Sure Brendan, I'm running behind, too, so don't worry!
 
Posted by A Yeatts (Member # 9500) on :
 
Sending mine now! Whew!

Brendan are you joining Group 1 or 2?
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
Good, things are warming up.

Even though I have received only one story and sent the crit for it.


Which might be good [Wink] --I was able to finish the revision of that 10,000 word story I want to send out this weekend. Just need to double check three sets of words I keep switching and it'll be ready.
Only three weeks late on a personal deadline.
 
Posted by Brendan (Member # 6044) on :
 
Ok, I'll join the first group. Ready and waiting.
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
I need to send mine to Brendan hopefully tomorrow night no promises, busy around here of late.

And so far doesn't look good for my story.
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
I just to want to double check, unless I dropped one someplace--and I have before--the only story I have received is Dr. Bob's. If someone else did send me one please tell me. I will look a third time for it.

And I have received two crits. Oops, still need to send mine to Brenden. Sorry I forgot.
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
Well, I finished half of the crits I received. Tightened up the story quite a bit. I didn't cut out nearly as many sections as suggested but a bunch of them and I cut out a few things on my own. One subscene was really too long, may still be.

Not a whole lot of nitpicks, I'll see if crit number two caught more.
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
Okay, finished with crit number two still very little in the way of nitpicks. Either I did an amazing job along those lines this time around or two people have the same problems seeing them as I do. [Wink]
 
Posted by Osiris (Member # 9196) on :
 
Slowly but surely working through my story. Sorry it is taking me so long all.
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
I'm a bit of a mess at present, recovering from facial trauma with surgery planned next week, which was the week I had planned to have to write.

Thus I'm rushing to complete my second draft (thanks for your crits Group 1). I'll send it out to Group 2 in the next day or so, again before deadline.

Brendan, I'll include you in my Group 2 mailing since you joined Group 1 after I'd sent out my first draft.

As yet, I've only received LD's and Ryan's stories to crit. I hope they were helpful.

Respectfully,
Dr. Bob
 
Posted by Osiris (Member # 9196) on :
 
Yikes Bob, worry about your health first! We'll be here when you get it done.
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
Well, "done".
At least the second draft, and on its way to you.

Now off to have my eyes dilated and make sure I didn't detach a retina (I'm pretty sure I didn't, but they all insist I get checked).

Respectfully,
Dr. Bob
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
Yikes, Dr. Bob.

Glad you are doing better,

And you probably should get it checked to make sure...it doesn't hurt to check but then again yes sometimes it does but still...
 
Posted by Utahute72 (Member # 9057) on :
 
Let me add my wishes for you getting better, Dr. Bob.

I finally sent out my story to group 1 (while this might seem slow, it's practically warp speed for me.)

Thanks ahead of time guys.
 
Posted by RyanB (Member # 10008) on :
 
quote:
Originally posted by History:
Well, "done".
At least the second draft, and on its way to you.

Now off to have my eyes dilated and make sure I didn't detach a retina (I'm pretty sure I didn't, but they all insist I get checked).

Respectfully,
Dr. Bob

Sounds like a story I'd like to hear from next year's gala.
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
quote:
Originally posted by RyanB:
Sounds like a story I'd like to hear from next year's gala.

From your lips to G-d's ears.
If I am so blessed to be on the podium next year, I will not look as pretty as I would have before my mishap. Unlike a famous young British boy wizard, my lightning shaped scar runs down the length of my nose, and I'm growing a goatee to hide the scars and bruises below my lip and chin (initially because I didn't want try to shave around the sutures).
I'll look a bit Mephistophelean--but some ladies like that. [Wink]

Utahute and Anna,
Thank you for your stories yesterday. You should have received my crits last evening.

Jed, Osiris, mbwood,
Send your stories when you are ready. If you get them to me soon, I'll get them back to you before my nose surgery Monday (it will be nice to breathe again). If not, then they may have to wait a week or so.

Respectfully,
Dr. Bob
 
Posted by Osiris (Member # 9196) on :
 
I'm so behind it isn't even funny. Things at the anthology are really ramping up... way too many demands on my time, but I don't want to drop out of the quarter.
 
Posted by A Yeatts (Member # 9500) on :
 
I've sent crits to Jed, mbwood, and Dr Bob. If you didn't receive them, please let me know so I can resend.

Thank you to mbwood and Dr Bob for the crits I've received. Both were very helpful. If anyone else has sent one, I unfortunately didn't receive it.

No rush to anyone else in either returning crits or sending stories. But Group 1, feel free to send your stories whenever you're ready and I'll get them back to you as soon as possible.

Thanks!
Anna
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
I am working on one crit and I have one crit to go over for my story.

The second group will get a slightly different tale. A ripped out the threads of one plot point I added just before sending it out the first time. The stitches on that addition didn't really fit in after all.

And I believe there are a couple of minor changes too.

Plus hopefully better writing.
 
Posted by A Yeatts (Member # 9500) on :
 
LDWriter, has your email changed from the one posted? I think I remember an email from you saying as much but now I can't find it. Would you be so kind as to send me your new one if you do? I'm trying to get my 2nd draft out.

Thanks ever so much!
Anna [Smile]
 
Posted by A Yeatts (Member # 9500) on :
 
Second draft sent out to Group 1.

Osiris, on the off chance you haven't had a chance to crit mine yet, I sent you a copy of draft #2. But I will happily take feedback from you on any draft you're willing to critique for me... you've got a keen eye and I'll take it where I can get it. [Smile]
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
Oops, didn't think about but I will have to send group two my new E-mail address.


And while I'm at it I have one more crit to run through on my story which I will start tonight. How long that takes depends on how many comments I have to go through and how close they are to each other---it can get confusing when a bunch of side comments are very close to each other.
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
Okay, came back to say I finished it. Didn't take as long as I feared.

I was shown some more nitpicks but still the number was way down from usual.

I'm going to wait a day or three to think about deleting a couple of sections.
 
Posted by Osiris (Member # 9196) on :
 
Anna, thank you for the complement. You read my mind, btw. Once I'm ready to start critiquing, I will be e-mailing everyone to ask if they'd like me to crit the version they sent me or if they'd like to send me a revision.
I'm hoping to have my story finished by the end of the week and sent out, after which I'll turn to critiquing for WoTF.
 
Posted by mbwood (Member # 9525) on :
 
Hello, Osiris & Jed....

wherefore art thou? I haven't got crits back from either of you (and Osiris, if you sent your piece - please resend).

I have only received one crit back (thank you Anna), which leaves me with only one opinion.

mbwood
 
Posted by Osiris (Member # 9196) on :
 
quote:
Originally posted by mbwood:
Hello, Osiris & Jed....

wherefore art thou? I haven't got crits back from either of you (and Osiris, if you sent your piece - please resend).

I have only received one crit back (thank you Anna), which leaves me with only one opinion.

mbwood

Sorry MB, I'm just so swamped with other things right now. I'm co-editing the next triangulation anthology while trying to finish my WoTF story, plus full-time job, 2 kids ,etc etc. I'm hoping to send my story out sometime next week, then I'll turn my attention to WoTF crits.

If you like, you can revise your story and send me the revised version when it is done. That way you'll get an extra set of eyes on the next version of it. That goes for anyone waiting on a crit from me.
 
Posted by Kathleen Dalton Woodbury (Member # 59) on :
 
Uhm, mbwood, I think "wherefore" means "why"? (As in Juliet's speech, "Wherefore art thou Romeo?" meaning, why do you have to be Romeo, the son of my family's enemy?)
 
Posted by Osiris (Member # 9196) on :
 
Hey all,

I hate to do this, once again, but I have to throw in the towel for this quarter. Some personal issues have developed over the past two days that require my attention more than anything else, even our beloved writing, so I am sidelining everything (except my commitment to Triangulation) until I can resolve those personal issues.

I'm sorry once again. Good luck to everyone this quarter.

Thanks,
Amr
 
Posted by Brendan (Member # 6044) on :
 
It's an interesting question KDW/mbwood, blurred a little by "Where art thou?" question to Adam and Eve by G-d just after the fall. Given that Shakespeare was alive during the writing on the King James translation, which was influential? Shakespeare's play on the translation or the translation on Shakespeare's play? Or was it just a coincidence? (For those that use Occam's razor to jump to the conclusion that it was coincidence, there is an urban legend that, on his 46th birthday, Shakespeare helped word the 46th Psalm. As a test of this theory, count 46 words from the beginning of that Psalm, and 46 words from the end, and post up here what you find.)
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
quote:
Originally posted by Osiris:
Hey all,

I hate to do this, once again, but I have to throw in the towel for this quarter. Some personal issues have developed over the past two days that require my attention more than anything else, even our beloved writing, so I am sidelining everything (except my commitment to Triangulation) until I can resolve those personal issues.

I'm sorry once again. Good luck to everyone this quarter.

Thanks,
Amr

Seems the only way I'm going to get you to read one of my stories, Osiris, is if I submit to "Triangulation". [Wink]

Dr. Bob
 
Posted by RyanB (Member # 10008) on :
 
quote:
Originally posted by Osiris:
Hey all,

I hate to do this, once again, but I have to throw in the towel for this quarter. Some personal issues have developed over the past two days that require my attention more than anything else, even our beloved writing, so I am sidelining everything (except my commitment to Triangulation) until I can resolve those personal issues.

I'm sorry once again. Good luck to everyone this quarter.

Thanks,
Amr

Sorry to hear about that Osiris. I hope you can work things out satisfactorily.

And hopefully you can still get your own story done. You still have over a month and a half. If you get it finished before the deadline go ahead and send it to me and I'll do my best to crit it for you. No return crit required.
 
Posted by Kathleen Dalton Woodbury (Member # 59) on :
 
quote:
Originally posted by Brendan:
It's an interesting question KDW/mbwood, blurred a little by "Where art thou?" question to Adam and Eve by G-d just after the fall. Given that Shakespeare was alive during the writing on the King James translation, which was influential? Shakespeare's play on the translation or the translation on Shakespeare's play? Or was it just a coincidence? (For those that use Occam's razor to jump to the conclusion that it was coincidence, there is an urban legend that, on his 46th birthday, Shakespeare helped word the 46th Psalm. As a test of this theory, count 46 words from the beginning of that Psalm, and 46 words from the end, and post up here what you find.)

Brendan, if you'd like to start a separate topic for this, we can certainly discuss it there.
 
Posted by Osiris (Member # 9196) on :
 
@Dr. Bob Oh I'm sure we'll find a way, I'd love to have you read something of mine too.

@RyanB thanks very much. Let's see how things pan out.
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
I believe I have received one story from group two.

An interesting one that is a different--not that that is bad David seems to like variety and different--which is all I will say about it.
 
Posted by A Yeatts (Member # 9500) on :
 
LD, if you're feeling like you're experiencing an LSD trip, it's okay! I know my little story is a bit... well... trippy dippy. LOL Experimental is putting it mildly as Group 1 can attest to.

Thanks for cracking away at it. ;-P
 
Posted by mbwood (Member # 9525) on :
 
Well, I confess my ignorance of Elizabethan English, one of my many shortcomings...

Okay, another try: Osiris - you've thrown in the towel on this quarter - okay.

Jedediah - I critted your piece, but haven't received your crit of my piece. I sure would like to get one more than the unusual one I've already received.

If not, I'll trudge on to the second group.

Remember the first rule of writing... Write!
mbwood
 
Posted by A Yeatts (Member # 9500) on :
 

 
Posted by mbwood (Member # 9525) on :
 
ldwriter2:

Hello, Louis, I got a message that your e-mail box has been suspended after I sent / e-mailed my submission to you.

mbwood
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
With Osiris out, I Believe I've provided crits to everyone except (just completed yours, mb) Jed and had crits in return from everyone except Jed.
I surmise Jed is occupied, so this should complete this Q3 Group for me.

My thanks to everyone. Good luck.

Respectfully,
Dr. Bob (Q1 non-winner, but still trying) [Smile]
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
Out of the group two I believe I have received one crit and one story--evidently another story will be forthcoming soon. If mb got my E-mail.

Now this crit is full of nitpicks. Yikes, this story is right up there with my usual number of nitpicks after all---they like to hide from me. Even though there seems to be more missing words than usual. Some, however were missing on purpose. I've noticed that a few pros use less and-s and then-s. Perhaps to save on words or to make the action more tense.
 
Posted by mbwood (Member # 9525) on :
 
Hello, Louis;

Yes, now I have your e-mail address & I found your story. I'll get to it soon and have it back to you before the end of the week. I still haven't received a story from UtahUte72...

mbwood
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
Now I have two stories.
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
While so far I have a cleaner-as in nitpicks-story, therefore better. I also did some changes on my own, cutting out more.

We shall see what the next one to crit it thinks of it. I probably put in a few new nitpicks and I'll see if he thinks it's good. Or if I left anything in from before the changes. As well as what improvements he finds.
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
I received two stories and sent back two crits.

But in case I missed one sent to me please say something if you haven't received a crit back. Osiris is out evidently but there should still be one more arriving some time.
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
LD,
I see I also don't have your new email address. Will you please forward it to me?

I appreciate your kind and encouraging words at the WOTF forum last week (May 22nd) and was pleasantly surprised that you recall my Rabbi Cane Kabbalist tales fondly.

Although its been a couple years since since I set my Cane novel (and Urban Fantasy) aside to gain more writing experience (and cred) before returning to it for a final rewrite, if you'd care to read the entire novel in its tyro form, I will share it with you.

Respectfully,
Dr. Bob
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
I would like a copy if you can send it PDF. I can transfer to my Nook that way. But if you would want any comment on it, that might take a while I have somewhere around 13 to 16 books in front of it. I might not wait that long to read it but it could take a month or two.


And I'm very good at recalling stories--even though the name of characters are a different matter.
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
Oh. No comments necessary. I have permitted only a few to read the novel. That you still think fondly of my Kabbalist short stories after a number of years is kind, and thus inspired my offer.

But, unfortunately, I do not have the knowledge of how to create a PDF from an MS Word file. I appreciate how much better/easier it would be read the novel as an ebook, since I do create .mobi files of my short stories to read on my Kindle. However, I have not done this for the novel. Thus, you (and I, ftm) will need wait another year or two until I get to it.

Respectfully,
Dr. Bob
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
Hmm, I don't know how MS Word works with PDF but mine seems to be connected to my print software. I don't think I have ever tried it with my new computer and only once or twice with the old one.

Seems like someone here should know though.

But as I said, if your novel would wait in line--not all do, some try to push to the front of the line--it would be months before I get to it anyway.

But as well as remember the stories fondly, I'm curious. I want to do more about how he handles demon that cut off his friend's head and killed someone else.

I said I have a good memory for stories.

And I think I feel honored that you would think about letting me read ahead of time.
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
LOL. Yes, LD. You do have a good memory.

The Butcheresque opening lines of the novel ("When you find a severed head in your mailbox, you can be pretty sure you’re in for a bad day. When it speaks to you, you can be certain.") were intended to be a memorable hook, and others who have similarly glimpsed or read the story have been after me to get this novel out. Perhaps I should give it my attention this summer, if I can.

Anyway, the offer remains open to you. Just email me whenever you have interest, or time; though I cannot as yet promise an e-reader friendly copy as yet.

Respectfully,
Dr. Bob
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
I double checked my new word processor--I had a memory tickle--and sure enough it does PDF. I click on Export and a menu pops up with a choice of five formats. .doc, .rtf, plain text, PDF and Epub. As I said I don't know about MS word. But it would seem like it would have something similar.

Haven't tested the Epub but it might have to do with Apple's online presence. Which means you have to have iLife to read it online. I have another program that makes web sites that only iLife people can go to.

But as I checked on this a thought popped into my mind, I can change it to PDF whatever format you send it in.
In other words send it.
 
Posted by Brendan (Member # 6044) on :
 
Dr Bob

In MS Word (2010 and perhaps some versions before), saving as a PDF requires the following steps

Open the file
Click on File tab
Choose Save as option to open "Save As" window
Change Save as type: to "PDF"

That will save the file as a PDF.
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
And .pdf files will display normally on an e-reader like Kindle or Nook?

I've gone through the many steps necessary to create a .mobi file of my recent shorter works this past year, to see how they look on Kindle (0 inch margins, single space, no extra spaces or it screws up the paragraph indent,place .mobi in the file name, and email to a kindle address). It takes time and work.

Is similar care needed in creating an e-reader ready .pdf file?

Respectfully,
Dr. Bob
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
P.S. Oh, sent my WOTF Q3 entry out today, after yet another read through. It is amazing that having read the story so many times, I still find little errors (missing quotation mark, a misspelling) and still find a few sentences to smooth/shorten. My thanks again to everyone.
 
Posted by Brendan (Member # 6044) on :
 
PDFs aren't ebooks, and will display differently. They are displayed like images, and so if you need to zoom, you have to navigate them like looking over a full-page picture. (In my kindle, that is a bit annoying, but I can make it work.) But the important thing is that one can read them in the Kindle. (Don't know about Nook, but I suspect the same.)
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
quote:
Originally posted by History:
And .pdf files will display normally on an e-reader like Kindle or Nook?

I've gone through the many steps necessary to create a .mobi file of my recent shorter works this past year, to see how they look on Kindle (0 inch margins, single space, no extra spaces or it screws up the paragraph indent,place .mobi in the file name, and email to a kindle address). It takes time and work.

Is similar care needed in creating an e-reader ready .pdf file?

Respectfully,
Dr. Bob

I don't know the process of making .mobi work but I was reading through my Nook Book the other day, looking for something else, when I came across a paragraph that mentions it reads PDF files. Oh, I had forgotten that or it is something new with a large upgrade they put out quite a few months ago. I have since uploaded (or is it shared?) two PDF files to it. Both opened without difficulty.

I will add those two files are from another writer who is putting out some E-published UF novelettes. She is Laura Anne Gilman. Already a pro writer but evidently her publisher didn't want to do one book of hers. So she went through Kickstarter, I donated some money to the cause and the two files, a bookmark and one or two other things were my reward. Seems like I --at least my name--should be in one her books but so far nothing on that. Anyway, The two files are for a new series by her.

Since this is a post for Dr Bob I will say that this series is made up of Noir, paranormal-UF, adventure, maybe a bit weird tales.
 
Posted by Kathleen Dalton Woodbury (Member # 59) on :
 
You can go to Amazon and set up a kindle email address to which you can email pdf files which will be converted to kindle files for you.

I've done it, and it's pretty slick.

You log onto Amazon, open the pull-down menu "Your Account" (near the upper right corner of the screen), and select "Manage Your Kindle."

Then go to the boxes on the left side of the screen and select "Personal Document Settings" under "Your Kindle Account."

That page allows you to set up an email address that you can send pdf fiiles to (and possibly other kinds of document files--haven't tried that) which then become part of your kindle library.

Hope this helps.
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
Yes, Kathleen. I have done this for my Kindle, and a couple of friends who occasionally act as my beta readers.

But I don;t know how to do this for the Barnes and Noble NOOK (which I don't possess). DO you?

Respectfully,
Dr. Bob
 
Posted by Kathleen Dalton Woodbury (Member # 59) on :
 
I don't have one, but my daughter does. She reads pdf files on her Nook all the time -- just connects her Nook to her computer with the USB connector and moves the pdf files from the computer to the Nook.
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
Looks like I will be sending in my story by Friday.

Just one more spellcheck to make sure.
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
Mine has been sent.

Good thing I did the spell check thing after all. Found a few misspelled words and even added a comma.
 
Posted by mbwood (Member # 9525) on :
 
I finally got my story off to the WotF contest - with thanks to most of the critiquers who offered constructive comments. Now I have to get started on Q4 story... Sigh, a never-ending tale in itself.

Remember the first rule of writing... Write!
mbwood
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
Did I say thanks?

I did on my blog but I don't think I did here.

Anyway, thanks to all. Some helped with turns of phrases and redoing sentences. One helped big time with nitpicks. Way too much work but that was my fault and I appreciate it.

At least my writing will be "clean". That is a plus.
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
So anyone sending theirs in at the last moment?


They seem to enjoy doing that over at the WotF forum.


If anyone here does you might get a closed noticed before midnight, if so contact Joni there she usually gets last minute people in because they tend to put up the end notice early.
 
Posted by WriterDan (Member # 6456) on :
 
Another quarter over and done with. Nothing to do now but sit and wait for the results, right? Hardly. Back to work everybody! There's another group to join! Another story to write! Another award to win! A publication to make!

Woo-hoo! Onward and upward!
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
And how many of you sent in your application for a job with WotF?


[Big Grin]
 
Posted by Utahute72 (Member # 9057) on :
 
I got mine in at the last minute, again! Thanks to those who reviewed it and gave me a lot of good comments. I got slammed later in the quarter so it didn't make it out to the second group, but thanks anyway. Yours were fun to read.
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
So how many here made it in? I know a few did but lose track over the weeks.

I don't know what those who read it think, especially those in the second group but I thinks this was one of my better ones. I'm reading one of the finalists from last Quarter and think I got the same type of rhythm, the five senses, and danger trope(To use a word someone here likes) but we shall see, there are so many other things that can go wrong or are over done or ??.

Anyway mine is in:

LDWriter2
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
If anyone gets David's Daily Kick post on writing his last one dealt with entering contests so it's possible he has started reading and is venting a little on the mistakes we writers make. [Smile]

Read here

Or he just might be trying to help those who are new. [Smile]
 
Posted by Brendan (Member # 6044) on :
 
Ah, so that is why snapper is doing better with DF - point number 5 on the list. [Smile]
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
Hmmm,


Just read David's Kick for today. Called Imagination I believe but it's more Originality.

Actually, heard and/or read that, from more than one source, before but this one goes into more detail.


Hmmm,

How does my Q3 hold up to his thoughts on Originality? [Confused]

Some parts are I think, the total thing has some good original components over all problem and scene in the sub-genre is original...I think but I don't know every type of story that is out there like he does.

A person who critted it thought one major component was original but it isn't. In this setting, with this problem and what solves the problem it could be.

I hope the thread that ties it all together is original enough as I think.

But again [Confused]

Ohh, I hope it is, at least enough. I'm not placing all hope in this story but it's one I am proud of--My mind and emotions think it is a very good story well told...something I haven't felt on that scale for quite a long time. which means I'm setting my self up for more disappointment if doesn't get at least a HM.
 
Posted by RyanB (Member # 10008) on :
 
The more I think about my Q3, the more I wished I would have pushed myself to add original elements to my world and bring them to life.

There was an article by Hubbard in V28 about a Coast Guard story he did. At first the story was bland. Then he spent some time on a Coast Guard boat. In the end, the salt wind was whipping the flags on the boat.

And that's what made it a good story.

It takes time to think through all of those details for an original world. But to me that's the best part of writing. OTOH, it takes writing skill to bring a world to life effectively. To me that's the frustrating part, the part I need to learn about.
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
I believe I read that article a while back...nice to be reminded.


And other writers have stated similar things in different words.

And there's a hint we will find out sooner this quarter. David seems to be hard at work reading our stories.
 
Posted by snapper (Member # 7299) on :
 
made you look.
 
Posted by A Yeatts (Member # 9500) on :
 
Dang it, snapper!
 
Posted by snapper (Member # 7299) on :
 
Hey, hey. Check this out. A lot of impatient people are waiting for word about results coming in. I am happy to report that I don't have word, but do have a minor megalomaniac complex knowing I got you to read my post.

Love tugging on those strings. [Razz]
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
So, I read a lot of posts what's one more??????????


Oh, by the way did you say something????????????
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
Looks like David Farland is still reading stories after all even while at Worldcon. So the guesses of When have been pushed back to the end of Sept.
 
Posted by mbwood (Member # 9525) on :
 
LD - yeah, Dave Wolverton was on a panel at WorldCon and talked about running through a bunch of WotF entries. He explained that the process involved looking for reasons to reject entries and specified those items that were at the top of his list.

Interesting panel - learned a few things about what made a better entry, much of which was basic good writing craft. Also, several of the previous WotF winners hosted a party, which was both fun and informative.

Remember the first rule of writing... Write!
mbwood
 
Posted by snapper (Member # 7299) on :
 
HM email. Sent Joni a response and got back a " what the hell are you still doing up?" from her. So nice of her to be so concerned about my insomnia.
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
HM as well.
Or "Hmm. I thought I had figured out what Mr. Wolverton liked. Guess not."

Respectfully,
Dr. Bob
 
Posted by RyanB (Member # 10008) on :
 
Rejection email here. I had high hopes for that story. Guess I have a lot more to learn.
 
Posted by axeminister (Member # 8991) on :
 
Ryan,
Keep learning by keep writing!

An R one quarter means nothing the next.
Sorry I didn't get a chance to read your Q4, but remember, you have an IOU for your Q1, so whatever advice I have to give, is yours.

Well, my Q3 is toast, and with my Q4 lying on the table in pieces, V30 comes to a whimpering close for the Dustinator.

Axe

[ September 26, 2013, 04:27 PM: Message edited by: axeminister ]
 
Posted by JenniferHicks (Member # 8201) on :
 
OK, so I wasn't part of the critique group this time, but ... FINALIST!!!

Nope, I'm not excited. Not at all.
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
quote:
Originally posted by History:
HM as well.
Or "Hmm. I thought I had figured out what Mr. Wolverton liked. Guess not."

Respectfully,
Dr. Bob

I am truly surprised by that. Even more than my total rejection. Not only was this story my best writing so far but I thought I had what he wanted from what some of his Kicks have been about lately.

But it's my writing so I shouldn't be surprised by my result.

Now to F&SF even though I'll be surprised if it does more than keep Scott's interest or if it works for Stephen.
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
quote:
Originally posted by RyanB:
Rejection email here. I had high hopes for that story. Guess I have a lot more to learn.

We all do, so keep at it, some people make some headway the first or second or third time but most don't.
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
Yeah, learning works for most people--everyone needs to go for it. There are sites to read, books to study and Kicks to absorb as I said it works for most.


But too bad I'm not most people.
 
Posted by snapper (Member # 7299) on :
 
Congratulations to you, Jennifer. I am pulling for you.

Now try carrying on with your life. The next two months are going to be long ones.
 
Posted by Kathleen Dalton Woodbury (Member # 59) on :
 
Congrats, Jennifer, and best wishes. Listen to what snapper said (am I really saying that? wow!).

[Wink]
 
Posted by JenniferHicks (Member # 8201) on :
 
Thank you. [Smile] The morning after Joni called, I had to schedule a phone conference with my kids' school, and go to the dentist and then the day job. So yes, life goes on.
 
Posted by axeminister (Member # 8991) on :
 
And she has to deal with my e-mail badgering.

I'm totally not going to leave her alone for at least a week.

Axe
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
quote:
Originally posted by JenniferHicks:
OK, so I wasn't part of the critique group this time, but ... FINALIST!!!

Nope, I'm not excited. Not at all.

Mazel tov!
This is wonderful. Hope you win!

That makes at least three Hatrackers to my knowledge who made it to Finalists this year. That says much for our little shtetl of a writing community.

Respectfully,
Dr. Bob
 
Posted by JenniferHicks (Member # 8201) on :
 
@Dr. Bob: Thanks! I know if I don't win that I'm in very good company in that regard. I also know you and snapper will be back in the top 8 again.

@Axe: Your badgering makes me smile. I would be sad if it went away.
 
Posted by Meredith (Member # 8368) on :
 
quote:
Originally posted by JenniferHicks:
OK, so I wasn't part of the critique group this time, but ... FINALIST!!!

Nope, I'm not excited. Not at all.

Congratulations!!
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
quote:
Originally posted by JenniferHicks:
OK, so I wasn't part of the critique group this time, but ... FINALIST!!!

Nope, I'm not excited. Not at all.

Well, forgot to say something but since you're not excited I may not need to say it after all.


Seriously: Congratulation!!!
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
Dr. Bob and anyone else who has a HM

you deserve s congrats. That isn't so easy.

But send that story to Beneath Ceaseless Skies. If nothing else they will give one to three sentences why they rejected it.

If they do, send it to IGMS.
 
Posted by Nick T (Member # 8052) on :
 
quote:
Congratulations to you, Jennifer. I am pulling for you.

Now try carrying on with your life. The next two months are going to be long ones.

Snapper, offering wise advice? Fraud I say. Someone has clearly hacked into his account.

Jennifer is the one who first introduced me to writers of the future and has been my constant writing guide and supporter since those days. Her success is long overdue and I hope that I get to see her speech in April (she can only improve on mine).

Nick
 
Posted by Utahute72 (Member # 9057) on :
 
Yea I got a HM e-mail also. A little disappointing because I thought I had a better product this time around. Congrats to Dr. Bob and Jennifer.
 
Posted by RyanB (Member # 10008) on :
 
No word from Anna yet. I'd be surprised if she didn't get at least an HM.

Congrats to Bob, Jennifer, Snapper, and James.
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
Hmm. I'm spoiled, I guess.
I truly appreciate the kind words.
My feelings toward a HM, however, is similar to that of getting one or two numbers on a Powerball ticket.

Respectfully,
Bob
 
Posted by RyanB (Member # 10008) on :
 
After reading a few of Dave's recent Kicks, I've reflected on my Q3 a bit, a postmortem I guess.

I still feel like my plot, characterization and style were adequate if not strong. Several people enjoyed the story, some more than others, though it certainly still had some (hopefully minor) flaws.

Initially, I thought my setting was good too. I described some the scenery, engaged the senses. Upon further review I realize that at best, I created a window into a bland, possibly cliched world. There wasn't anything creative in my setting or characters for that matter.

I may have created characters and a world, but I certainly didn't make something new.

Also: 228 stories caught his attention in the first pass. I'm guessing around 100 of those got an HM. Perhaps I, and other non-placers, can take solace in that. Unfortunately we'll never know if our stories were top 20% or bottom 20%.

Likewise the HM's could be just top 10% or 2%. FWIW, Dr. Bob, I'm guessing your story was closer to the latter.
 
Posted by mbwood (Member # 9525) on :
 
RyanB;

a quick question - where did you get the numbers on the stories that caught Dave's attention?

Thanks,

mbwood
 
Posted by RyanB (Member # 10008) on :
 
http://www.davidfarland.net/writing_tips/?a=285

Farland writes a Daily Kick about every other day.
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
And I assume you finalists are still having fun waiting. [Wink]





My Q3 has received it's second complete rejection, by Stephen at F&SF, but it's off to IGMS. Don't expect much it's still my writing after all even if I think it could be my best.

Don't know if they have any levels of rejection at IGMS. as far as I can recall I've always gotten the same thing.
 
Posted by JenniferHicks (Member # 8201) on :
 
quote:
Originally posted by LDWriter2:
And I assume you finalists are still having fun waiting. [Wink]

Ha. I'm not sure "fun" is the right word. I hope the wait will be over soon.
 
Posted by JenniferHicks (Member # 8201) on :
 
The Q3 winners have been announced and, alas, I am not among them. The nice thing about this contest is that you can always try again.
 
Posted by snapper (Member # 7299) on :
 
sorry, JCH. Welcome to the Oh so close club. We meet once a month. It's axe's turn to bring a snacks this month.
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
I also share my commiserations.
Snapper, what a wonderful title for an anthology...

------------THE OH SO CLOSE CLUB-------------
-WRITERS OF THE FUTURE FINALIST TALES!-
---------------------------- . -----------------------------
---------------------------- . -----------------------------
---------------------------- . -----------------------------
------------------( that didn't win )-----------------
---------------------------- . -----------------------------
------------a.k.a.The Best Of The Rest------------

[Wink]

Respectfully,
Dr. Bob
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
P.S. How come I wasn't invited to the monthly kvetch and plotz, Snapper? I'm famous for my knishes.

Or if you Gentiles prefer "finger sandwiches", mine include real fingers (my having access to the morgue and all).
Happy Halloween! [Smile]
 
Posted by snapper (Member # 7299) on :
 
You are a member, Bob. Nick was one too but he decided he was too good for the club so he wrote a winning entry awhile back. Snob.
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
If that's what it takes, what's your name, I can practice snobbery. [Wink]
 
Posted by snapper (Member # 7299) on :
 
Joni just put a nice fright in me. She sent out a bulk email to all third quarter HM honorees that she sent out our certificates today. right in the middle of results for Q4. What timing she has!
 
Posted by JenniferHicks (Member # 8201) on :
 
Bob and Frank, you'd know this: Do you get a nice shiny certificate when you're a non-winning finalist? It'd be nice to have something to show for it ...
 
Posted by LDWriter2 (Member # 9148) on :
 
quote:
Originally posted by snapper:
Joni just put a nice fright in me. She sent out a bulk email to all third quarter HM honorees that she sent out our certificates today. right in the middle of results for Q4. What timing she has!

She does have a habit of doing thing like that. I've been "tricked" by her notices. [Big Grin]
 
Posted by MJNL (Member # 9686) on :
 
quote:
Originally posted by JenniferHicks:
Do you get a nice shiny certificate when you're a non-winning finalist? It'd be nice to have something to show for it ...

It's kind of the luck of the draw. Some quarters do, some don't. I didn't get one for either of my first finalists (and I guess I didn't need one for the third).
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
quote:
Originally posted by JenniferHicks:
Bob and Frank, you'd know this: Do you get a nice shiny certificate when you're a non-winning finalist? It'd be nice to have something to show for it ...

I did receive a certificate for my 2013 Q1 Finalist story, my first from WOTF.

It was "shiny" in Firefly-speak, but I am unsure if it differs from the Semi-Finalist or Hononrable Mention certificates except that the word "Finalist" is printed upon. I'll find out when I receive my HM certificate for my Q3 tale that supposedly was just mailed.

Respectfully,
Dr. Bob
 
Posted by History (Member # 9213) on :
 
quote:
Originally posted by MJNL:
I didn't get one for either of my first finalists (and I guess I didn't need one for the third).

If I haven't said it: Well done. Mazel tov!
(And a trophy Win beats a Finalist certificate anyday). [Smile]
 
Posted by MJNL (Member # 9686) on :
 
:-) Thanks.
 
Posted by JenniferHicks (Member # 8201) on :
 
Joni hasn't e-mailed to either ask for my address or inform me that a certificate is on the way, so I will probably not get one. That's OK. I finally got the phone call I had been daydreaming about for years. That's good enough.

And I was thinking "shiny" in the Firefly sense. [Smile]
 
Posted by JenniferHicks (Member # 8201) on :
 
What do you know, it looks like I got a certificate after all. Woot! At least, my husband says there's a large envelope from WotF that came in the mail today.
 


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