Round 3 Results and Reviews - Honourable Mentions (Chick-Lit)


Before I go into the results, this was very hard for the judges and I. There were so many good books to choose from. All of you are very talented and this contest became very competitive with only a few marks separating the winners and the various rankings! Moreover, all the judges had very different opinions of each book and this is why this contest was very unique.


I did have to statistically adjust for the scores. One judge gave consistently low marks while another gave consistently high marks skewing distributions widely. So you will see your adjusted scores here that allowed for fair play! If you want to know how the scores were adjusted, I don't mind explaining!


Of course, your classification in the Honourable Mentions or Winners group is based on the total adjusted scores. However, I have also shown the top three rankings for each of the individual judges to show our variability. This should give you a good idea of where you stand! Also, be proud of your achievement because of you are all wonderful writers!


If you would like to know your individual criteria scores and/or you full raw review from the organizer, please PM achudasama1 for more details.


So here we go with the results!


Rank 9: SOMEDAY by meimyselfforever

Adjusted Total Score: 202.8/300

Achievement: First Place for TreasonGirl (Judge 2) for all books reviewed!

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Round 2 Reviewed By: TreasonGirl (Judge 2)

Chapters Read: 3 Chapters

Review:

For this book, the cover and the tags are appropriate and appreciable. The writing style is great with the beginning of the book starting off in a very interesting manner. The way the story progressed is excellent as well. The book had pretty good character development. The genre consistency was present as well and I love how this book was so different (full marks on creativity and originality!).

However, the summary could be improved. Moreover, the grammar and choice of words lacked the needed emphasis and flow that the story requires. The story is so interesting, I wish I had something more to look forward to. However, overall great job!

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Round 3 Reviewed By: RV_Rose (Judge 1)

Chapters Read: 4 Chapters

Review:

The book has a nice flow, though the plot seems quite cliché, it can still hold interest. Sentence structuring can be improved. The characters seems nice. Though a bit confusing the way dialogues are written, it can do with some precision and improvement. Overall, the book is a nice read.

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Round 3 Reviewed By: achudasama1 (Organizer)

Chapters Read: 5 Chapters

Review:

For the writing style, I really enjoyed the soliloquy like presentations. Moreover, the writing made sense and was easy to follow. Your writing strength lies in narrative prose and it showed with many of the internal thought processes and event depictions. The story had an amazing start fraught with emotion and conflict, then it made a jump that was cliche for me. I think the story just needed something else based on the chapters I read.

The information provided in the summary did not attract me as a reader. I also found some issues with missing and incorrect punctuation along with word spacing that can be easily fixed. The background information provided was great but the character development was not present. Overall, great effort!



Rank 8: Disaster Ever After by megs328

Total Adjusted Score: 222.4/300

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Round 2 Reviewed By: Ahhnajoliecopley (Judge 3)

Chapters Read: 4

Review:

First things first, that cover needs some TLC. I am a sucker at most, part for short, sweet and to the point summaries, but I feel that your needs a little more to draw the reader in. Especially, to balance out the visual of the cover. The first chapter subtly pulled me in and I found myself interested in where this story was heading. Also, I love how realistic you make three young adults. I can say that Kendall is a typical 22 year old, with conversation and lifestyle combined.

Maybe you can combine the prologue and first chapter together and just separate them by lines or something. Only because I feel it messes up the flow/transition of the story. Just an opinion.

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Round 3 Reviewed By: TreasonGirl (Judge 3)

Chapters Read: 3 Chapters Total - Prologue & 2 Chapters

Review:

Cover perfectly matches the title as it is an elemental base and it's beautiful. The title is fitting as well. Overall, the cover and title suit the theme of the story. May want to increase the size of the author's name a tad bit. The grammar and command on the English language is very nice. This book had more of a Romance Genre feel than Chick-Lit. Chick-Lit delves into a woman's deeper problems and issues. It is more than romancing. Even with some minor issues, the story is a good one and just requires some polishing.

I think certain considerations outlined here may help your book further.

The summary is too short and does not give a sense of what the story is about. All I know is two people meet and I assume they fall in love. In my opinion, a summary must show some story line.

For the writing, there are many redundant words and phrases and the author has a tendency to switch between first to second person. Stick to one, please. I felt punctuation needed some attention but I assume it's a first draft so can be overlooked.

Prologue is not about what happened in the character's life. It should either have a particular scene that links to the next part or a flashback or anything that relates to that story but not giving out all the relevant information. The writer laid out the whole story for the readers from the very beginning killing the enthusiasm to read further. You may also want to think about how to make your character's behaviour look natural.

Suggestion: Would be best if the writer can start story with the bar scene. Instead of all the back story and how she ended up being nurse. The back story has many plot holes too. Please work to fix that.

Please continue writing as many of these issues will improve with practice and further exploration!

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Round 3 Reviewed By: achudasama1 (Organizer)

Chapters Read: 6 Chapters

Review:

I liked how you maintained story continuity as the story progressed. However, the prologue events did throw me off as the story did not have a particular point where they could be related. The writing is enjoyable with more of a narrative and event depiction style. Along with Chick-Lit Genre, you have a skill in the Humour Genre as well!

However, my major issue was that the book gave off a Romance feel than a Chick-Lit feel. I have seen books like yours before, but the way you have described certain situations had me smiling throughout. Never before had I read a drunken scene, that was so much fun! There were some tense mix-ups in the prologue that are easily fixable. Overall, you have an enjoyable story to tell, so continue your writing journey!



Rank 7: Saving Winter by CreativeDelinquents

Total Adjusted Score: 224.6/300

Achievement: First Place for RV_Rose (Judge 1) for all books reviewed!

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Round 2 Reviewed By: TreasonGirl (Judge 2)

Chapters Read: 3 Chapters

Review:

Picture of a girl and title fits appropriately for the book. Based on the summary of all the books I have judged by far, I have loved your summary. It captivates me and makes want to read the book. Your writing style is wonderful and your talent does show through! Your genre consistency was quite high, so keep it up!

I have to give it you for your creative writing. You have done an excellent job with words. You got some awesome skills in creative writing. Like instead of, just using the word chloroform you have described it so well, that reader will ultimately know what that chemical is. And few other scenes, must say am very impressed of your creative skills.

You have managed to make your readers turn the page and I really enjoyed reading it because of the creative writing. Good job at that!

Some suggestions for you are as follows. Please consider them when you decide to edit your book and/or make changes, as it will make the novel more attractive to readers:

Kindly update the tags as most of them deal with awards. I was not not happy with grammar at times. Especially, redundant words like 'AS' and connecting words are pet peeves for me. Few sentences require proper punctuation.

However, description of each and every thing is again a pet peeve. You have repeatedly explained the same thing in two different points of views (POV's). Also, be careful when describing emotionally sensitive issues, as many readers can be triggered by it. (Judge 2 has some specific story related advice. I can share with you if you like, I am not including it here.)

Also, try the practice of: Don't just 'TELL' us, 'SHOW' us. Character's actions can help readers to understand them rather than telling what she or he feels.

But am not sure about originality as I couldn't see much of plot or character development. These two factors actually help us to see how original the story is or where it's going. If you improve in that sector it's easy to get the feel of originality.

Don't worry first draft are often a mess. You will improve as you keep writing.

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Round 3 Reviewed By: RV_Rose (Judge 1)

Chapters Read: 3 Chapters

Review:

This book is so hauntingly beautiful. The flow of writing is amazing and it keeps one interested. Plot seems heartbreaking yet appealing, it is nothing new but something in the way it is written makes it so fresh. Overall, it is a really nice read.

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Round 3 Reviewed By: achudasama1 (Organizer)

Chapters Read: 5 Chapters

Review:

I thoroughly enjoyed the descriptive style of the novel. The descriptions of the scenery and locations was done beautifully and in detail. I also enjoyed the comparison imagery at used from time to time. You are definitely a very talented writer. I liked the story development and pace even though the direction was unknown, it kept me interested and vested. The character descriptions was amazingly done as we knew their emotions and their thoughts. You have a certain skill set where you can maintain Chick-Lit Genre consistency, but also can add in aspects of Horror and Action too! Incredible!

There were some issues with misused words and missing punctuation that can be easily corrected. Also, in the later chapters, I did not like the inclusion of humour that felt flat and it was unnecessary. You are so skilled with what you are doing that it just seemed slightly jarring. I enjoyed the book up to a certain point and then was slightly disappointed but I saw a revival in the plot. Overall, I think you have something unique here, if you continue on your own path!



Rank 6: Amalie by alexandrawintr

Total Adjusted Score: 232.1/300

Two Achievements: Third Place for TreasonGirl (Judge 2) & Tied for First Place for achudasama1 (Organizer) for all books reviewed!

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Round 2 Reviewed By: TreasonGirl (Judge 2)

Chapters Read: 3 Chapters

Review:

As per the name - AMALIE, the cover matches just fine. But I believe adding an element or two to it can do wonders. Since it's a Chick-Lit book - the picture of a girl is perfect! However, when it comes to the covers I look for theme and elements that are being used to set the picturesque way of storytelling for the readers. I'm quite pleased by her command on the language and grammar. Your style of writing is wonderful! Keep up the good work! The start of the book is quite interesting and the pace of the plot is acceptable. The author scores high points from me for character development, genre consistency and for creativity and originality! Great job!

However, here are some considerations and suggestions for improvement of great product that will make it shine even more.

Please consider revising your summary. When I started to read it, I had no clue what it is about. All I got was some girl and some story, no description of what it is based on basically. Is it a Chick-Lit- romance, Chick-Lit-suspense or Chick-Lit-Romedy? The summary must give out the sense of the Genre and Sub-genre followed by a few key lines relating to story details that the author deems appropriate.

Redundant words are the most common mistakes most writers do, so please try to review that. For punctuation, I'm no pro at it. But a few paragraphs and sentences do require proper punctuation. (However, things like punctuation can be overlooked in the first draft. So I'm not deducting any for it. (Bit weak in my own punctuation. ;)

Please consider shortening your chapters a little bit as it can hinder readers from continuing with the story. I usually write about 2,500 to 3,000 word chapters that translate to (12-14 minutes).

I think with a great summary that entices and shortened chapter, your book will captivate readers further!

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Round 3 Reviewed By: RV_Rose (Judge 1)

Chapters Read: 4 Chapters

Review:

The story seems interesting. Writing style can work with some improvement. Although the story holds interest, really long chapters makes it quite a tedious task to read. I love the theme and the way family of the protagonist is presented. The book suits the genre and is a good read, overall.

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Round 3 Reviewed By: achudasama1 (Organizer)

Chapters Read: 4 Chapters

Review:

First of all, I love a book that has a message to share and sheds a light on an important and sensitive issue like abuse of any kind. So hats off to the author for taking a stand and writing about such an issue in a wonderfully descriptive style with good dialogues. This book scored the highest marks for spelling, grammar and punctuation. You have also done well with describing the loving relationship between three generations of women! Many people might feel that the descriptions have slowed down the pace of the story, but to me, it was an AMAZING read! Don't deter from that path, you have a gift!

For me, you lost some points with the summary and cover, which may need to be refined. Also, the length of the chapters can be rate limiting step in the very beginning. Once you have a lot of readers, you can write the long chapters! I look forward to reading this book in the future to find out what happens! I have a feeling that there are some more hurdles, challenges and positive events waiting for Amalie.



For Ranks 5, 4 and 3, the differences were within one mark, this was so difficult for me! But here we go!


Rank 5: Cici And The Five Steps For Getting Over An Obsession by minute_moon

Total Adjusted Score: 238.6/300

Achievement: Second Place for Ahhnajoliecopley (Judge 3) for all books reviewed!

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Round 2 Reviewed By: RV_Rose (Judge 1)

Chapters Read: 3 Chapters

Review:

The book has interesting characters and a nice writing style, though, the plot seems to be rather cliché. It is an easy read with a good flow. From the chapters I've read, I can only say that though this story is nicely written, it might fit more in the genre of Teen Fiction with Chick-Lit as only one of the sub-genres.

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Round 3 Reviewed By: Ahhnajoliecopley (Judge 3)

Chapters Read: 3 Chapters

Review:

I loved the sense of humor in the book all throughout the chapters I read. The characters were so relatable and were refreshing. The step one picture for some reason had me pouring with laughter!

I feel though in the first chapter you usedCici's name to the point, that it became monotonous. Besides that, I love herpersonality and that you are not character dumping. The characters, actuallyhave substance other than fillers. They flow very well with the story.

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Round 3 Reviewed By: achudasama1 (Organizer)

Chapters Read: 7 Chapters

Review:

This book had one of the top three covers and summaries for me! It all intertwined together and is so unique! Your plot and quality of writing won my heart over. Along with your narrative and well thought out humourous dialogues, you added some wonderful comparison and analogies. I like how the Wicked Witch of the West's green face paint symbolized one of the character's feelings of jealousy! WOW! You are the only writer, who received full marks for character development from me. You have conducted some intricate sketches that allows the readers to see so many shades to each of the characters, including the supporting ones.

This was a competitive contest and you lost some marks for spelling, grammar and punctuation with word spacing issues, punctuation, missing pronouns and prepositions. Also, this book has more a Teen Fiction feel to me than Chick-Lit. You do address the dating nuances facing adolescents and the coming of age story, but it still is more suited for young adults. Overall, I loved reading this book and plan to finish it! Keep up the good work, you are one of my favourite writers that is so clever!



Rank 4: Electric Impulse by AngeltheAuthor320

Total Adjusted Score: 239.4/300

Achievement: Tied for First Place for achudasama1 (Organizer) for all books reviewed!

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Round 2 Reviewed By: Ahhanajoliecopley (Judge 3)

Chapters Read: 4

Review:

I honestly thought this book was not going to meet the mark due to the cover. The cover is extremely average and does nothing for the story. What the cover lacks, the summary makes up for it. It piques the interest without being overly descriptive.

Once starting the story, it was hard for me not to vote. Her first chapter although well written can use a revision as it is seemingly flat. As you keep reading the story, it begins to unfold and you are left wanting to read more. Which I most likely will. This story is awesome. A few misplaced punctuation and some grammar issues, but not distracting to the overall enjoyment of reading this book.

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Round 3 Reviewed By: TreasonGirl (Judge 3)

Chapters Read: 3 Chapters Total - Prologue & 2 Chapters

Review:

The cover is perfectly matching the title. However. I would suggest writer to look for high definition images. The title is fitting and blends well with the overall cover and suits the theme of the story. Your command on the English language and grammar are stellar and one of the first books where punctuation is used appropriately. Maybe I should take some lesson from you! I did enjoy your gradual character development. It feels more like a Romance than Chick-Lit. Must understand Chick-Lit is more of women and their deep problems then just romancing, if you get what I mean. Lastly, I love how you started the book in such a unique manner! It had me interested.

Some considerations for the author to attract more readers are shown below. I enjoyed many aspects of the book and hope this will help you improve.

The summary may require a quick brush up. Think about revising it. I think you have changed things since the last time, I checked. So good job!

There are certain redundant words/phrases which need attention. Like you kept mentioning about how the character loved waiting for her dad and directly jump on to she wakes up and finds out her dad is never going to return. The scene felt truncated and maybe consider re-doing it with limited emotions and more actions.

Writing in first person perspective is quite tricky, as the writer sticks to mostly the character's thoughts and feelings. I guess with tad bit of more efforts you can master the trick of engaging your readers and add more of actions. Just a suggestion.

The plot development felt stinted since each chapter had only a single scene. You can go ahead and add some thrill or scenes in a chapter. Note that you can have a single scene with appropriate drama and emotions spread evenly. I personally prefer writing each chapter between 2500 to 3000 words. Just saying.

I wish you luck since you have decided to make this book into a series. Some refinements and you are on your way of having an exceptional product.

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Round 3 Reviewed By: achudasama1 (Organizer)

Chapters Read: 6 Chapters

Review:

So I loved the cover and with the summary and the tags, it was the second highest ranked for me! You tied again for the highest marks in spelling, grammar and punctuation. So great job on both fronts. You have a narrative style of writing with some descriptions. However, the imagery is so enjoyable. Especially, when the female protagonist feels that she has faced a collision from a braking disabled 18 wheeler. What! I am a sucker for imagery, love it! Your writing style is very different as there is a time continuum that readers need to consider. The presentation of it something I had not seen before. Your story has me extremely intrigued. I love having to figure out what is happening and where it is all headed! Nice!

For me, the genre consistency with Chick-Lit was average because I think the story is still setting that up. Moreover, the character development was lacking but that is because of the writing style. However, you continue on your path. For creativity, you had me with the berating scene that you see in movies but I had never read it before. I appreciate writers who can write a scene so perfectly that you can picture everything. What a special and wonderful way of writing! You have a new fan!

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So that does it for the Honourable Mentions! It took me a while to compile things, so if there are spelling issues or if something is not clear, please do let me know! Be on the lookout for your prizes in the upcoming week! Congratulations to each and everyone of you! Your books were a treat to read. So here are a few parting thoughts:



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