These reviews were all written by myself, as these were the two genres I judged. There is the winner and second place for Fantasy, and then all five entrants for the bonus Animal Fiction genre, since your stories are extra-special to this account. Hope they help, or at least make you smile.

FANTASY

judged by SpruceWolf

Daughters of Fate by MathiasCavanaugh (second place)

Straight away, the intriguing concept drew me in. I would suggest having a separate chapter for all the awards listed (well done, though - wow) but otherwise, a fascinating and beautifully-written summary. You further hooked me in with the first chapter - you introduce interesting and unique characters, and they set up the story quite nicely, while also raising curiosity. The twins feel very realistic, and I love the differences you show between them. Your descriptions remain incredible throughout, as does the effortless flow of each chapter. It's gripping. Excellent book!

Ice Dragon by jessicatreader (first place)

I love this book. Retellings are always fascinating, but yours has to be one of the best I've ever read. Both cover and summary are beautiful, and instantly inviting. Your world is charming, and I really enjoyed discovering it with each chapter. Lilia is an awesome character. I love her rebellious attitude, and her courage. The imagery is fantastic, and I feel as if I was beside Lilia during her adventures (so far, anyway). Overall, it's a great twist on an already-good fairytale, and if I had more time, I would keep reading. Highly recommend!

ANIMAL FICTION

judged by SpruceWolf

Leonardo by Yummychocochick

I'm not usually the biggest fan of werewolf stories, especially those based around romance, but yours feels very unique and interesting right from the start. The prologue is certainly hooking, and raises many questions. Even after reading more, I'm still not entirely sure about how it links to the rest of the book. It's confusing, but that's what forms the intrigue. I feel so sorry for Bella, and I really want her to start fighting back against her awful lifestyle. Good so far!

To Catch A Glimpse by jessicagoyette

This story was very different to anything I've read before - and in a very good way. It certainly made me think. It felt almost philosophical in the questions you raised through the story, and it built the world and setting perfectly. A bird perspective isn't often seen in books, and so I was really pleased to see it done so well. I especially loved the build-up to discovering that he was a bird. You had me fooled. I feel I'd have to read more to really start getting into the plot, but you've definitely set it up very nicely!

Frost on the Grasslands by SmokeAndOranges (third place)

I knew I'd like this story, and you didn't disappoint. Furry kinds have always been my favourites, but I've never been creative enough to come up with my own. Your creatures are fascinating, and I love Shelha so far. You have lots of characters, which does lessen connection with them a little, but you describe them each in such a way that they feel like genuine individuals and I already have my favourites (Whipper, for instance). It's your imagery that really captivated me, though. Fantastic. When I get the time, I'll definitely be reading more!

The Dragon Queen's Heir by xAmberLynnWriterx (second place)

As soon as I read the summary, I knew that this story would be beautifully written. I've seen the dragon-rider concept before, but never done this well. The hook is instantly gripping; it gives away very little, yet sets up enough to draw readers into the world. Then we're introduced to Ash, who instantly presents herself as an independent girl who is very sure of what she wants. You can't doubt her determination to get to the Selecting, and I was encouraging her the whole way. You describe her emotions very realistically. Great so far, and I'm looking forward to meeting some dragons!

Ouroboros by Sandcat- (first place)

This is an incredible concept, and perfectly done. It's very enjoyable, while also raising some important points about the state of the planet. It only took that first chapter, and I was hooked in. I love the exchanges between Jim and Coda - and both of them as individual characters, actually - and the plot just gets better with every chapter. Everything is described with just enough clarity, but without too much detail, especially at certain points, which keeps the element of mystery. It flows beautifully. I actually read more than I was supposed to, because I was so immersed in the story. Definitely plan on continuing. Amazing book!