First Chapters - Winner Announced...

We are absolutely delighted to announce that John Michaelson is the well-deserved winner of our First Chapters competition

The judging panel were very impressed by John’s clear and well-structured synopsis, and felt that his first chapter set the scene astutely by introducing his characters, predominantly by conversation.
The panel were looking for the un-put-down-able factor, which would make the reader want to carry on reading.  Whilst all agreeing that this isn’t achieved by following any specific formula, the consensus was that GREG ARIES PRIVATE DICK, fell into the un-put-down-able genre.
The panel noted that John’s first chapter demonstrated an excellent story-telling quality.
They commented that he observed the human condition in a way that made his characters and their actions likeable and believable but at the same time providing a glimpse into the unknown.
They agreed that this chapter demonstrated John’s creative writing skills by having a good pace, punchy dialogue, and just the right smattering of black comedy.

The panel all said that they couldn’t wait for the next instalment!

John wins a publishing contract with www.writebuzz.com  and we will design his book-cover and arrange for GREG ARIES PRIVATE DICK to be published and made available, on sale, via www.amazon.co.uk and other channels.

John is now obliged to continue to publish the continuation of his book, which should be complete before 1 May 2010, via our Work in Progress section. 

We would like to thank all other entrants to our First Chapter’s challenge for their time, commitment, and effort. The panel felt that a number of the entries had potential, and that all members who participated should be encouraged to “keep at it”. To help support this, we will be monitoring the progress of those who do so, with a view to potentially publishing a further book, on behalf of another of our members. Writers wishing to be considered for this second opportunity to win a publishing contract, with us, should publish their next chapters via our Work in Progress section.

And, one BIG further bonus for all members who participated, arima publishing has kindly agreed to offer a special £80 discount on their New Author Publishing Programme. The normal cost of this programme is currently £575, so this represents a very generous saving. If you would like to complete your book and publish it via www.arimapublishing.co.uk, then what a terrific incentive!

We would also like to thank everyone who reviewed work on First Chapters for your positive feedback and helpful comments. Readers are invited to continue to review progress, via the W.I.P. section, and we are sure that John, and other members who decide to continue writing their books, will find your constructive criticism to be extremely useful.