Before we delve into the chilling revelations of our Crime & Horror award winners, The Grand Masquerade of Writing Awards would like to express our deepest gratitude to our incredible panel of judges!

🥀 mxtsuro

🥀 AsherTheKookabura

Sifting through tales of suspense, murder, and the macabre is no easy feat. Your discerning eyes, along with your unwavering dedication, have been instrumental in selecting the most spine-tingling and heart-stopping entries this year.

Your expertise in the shadows has ensured that only the most terrifying tales, the ones that leave you checking under the bed and reaching for the nightlight, will rise to the top.  Thanks to your keen insights, we can celebrate the very best in crime and horror fiction.

So, to our esteemed Crime & Horror judges, from the bottom of our darkest hearts, THANK YOU.  Your contribution to the awards is invaluable.

Now, get ready for the chills to multiply!  Stay tuned as we unveil the talented storytellers who will be taking home the Crime & Horror trophies...

First, a round of applause for the cunning minds who secured the coveted runner-up positions!

Second Runner Up: A killer twist is afoot! The award goes to @SSears90 for their chilling novel, SURVIVING NUMBER 8. This masterfully crafted story kept our judge guessing until the very last page, its intricate plot and unforgettable characters leaving a trail of goosebumps in their wake. Congratulations!

JUDGE: mxtsuro

TOTAL SCORE :: (78/100)

➟ Book Cover: 3.5/5
The cover of "Surviving Number 8" presents a simplistic design featuring faceclaims, which serves its purpose of introducing the characters to the reader. While the inclusion of faceclaims provides clarity regarding the characters' appearances, the overall aesthetic lacks depth and fails to capture the darker, more intense themes explored within the narrative. To enhance the cover's effectiveness, consideration could be given to incorporating darker hues, mysterious imagery, or subtle hints at the story's central conflicts. Additionally, experimenting with typography or graphic elements could help create a more visually striking and thematically appropriate cover that better aligns with the tone of the story.

➟ Title: 4/5
"Surviving Number 8" effectively encapsulates the central conflict of the story and immediately draws attention to the challenges faced by the characters. However, while the title is straightforward and descriptive, there may be an opportunity to infuse it with more intrigue or symbolism to further engage readers and provoke curiosity about the story's premise. Exploring alternative titles that offer deeper layers of meaning or hint at the story's themes could enhance the title's impact and create additional layers of intrigue for potential readers.

➟ Blurb Relevance: 8/10
The blurb provides a concise yet intriguing overview of the story's premise, effectively setting up the central conflict and raising questions about the characters' journey. However, to enhance its impact, the blurb could benefit from more vivid language or specific examples that tease the story's twists and turns. Additionally, while the blurb effectively establishes the arrival of the eighth member as a catalyst for turmoil within the group, further exploration of the individual characters' motivations and conflicts could provide readers with a more nuanced understanding of the story's central conflicts and themes.

➟ Plot & Narrative Structure: 16.5/20
"Surviving Number 8" unfolds across five chapters, skillfully building tension and suspense with each successive installment. The narrative structure effectively balances character development, interpersonal conflicts, and plot progression, ensuring a cohesive and engaging reading experience. However, while the pacing remains consistent throughout, there may be opportunities to further explore subplots or delve deeper into individual character arcs. Additionally, varying the narrative structure or experimenting with nonlinear storytelling techniques could add complexity and depth to the story's overarching plot, enhancing its overall impact and reader engagement.

➟ Characterization: 12/15
The characters in "Surviving Number 8" are richly drawn, each possessing distinct personalities, motivations, and inner conflicts. From Jin's courageous confrontation of the newcomer to Jungkook's palpable fear and Namjoon's protective instincts, the interactions between the characters feel authentic and emotionally resonant. However, while the main characters are well-developed, there may be room to further explore the motivations and complexities of the eighth member. Providing readers with a more nuanced understanding of their role within the group dynamic could add depth and complexity to the story's overarching plot, enhancing its overall impact and emotional resonance.

➟ Writing Mechanics: 15/20
The writing in "Surviving Number 8" is clear, engaging, and descriptive, effectively immersing readers in the world of the story. Descriptive language vividly depicts the characters' emotions and surroundings, while dialogue is used skillfully to reveal character traits and advance the plot. However, while the writing maintains a consistent level of quality, there may be opportunities to vary sentence structure or experiment with stylistic techniques to further enhance the narrative's impact and maintain reader interest. Additionally, attention to detail in grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure could further elevate the prose and create a more polished reading experience for the audience.

➟ Content and Originality: 11/15
The story's exploration of the impact of a new member on an established group is both compelling and original, offering a fresh perspective on the dynamics of interpersonal relationships within a close-knit community. Themes of power dynamics, loyalty, and resilience are effectively woven into the narrative, providing depth and complexity to the story's overarching plot. However, while the story demonstrates creativity and originality in its premise, there may be opportunities to further develop secondary plotlines or introduce unexpected twists to keep readers engaged and guessing. Additionally, exploring deeper thematic elements or incorporating subtle symbolism could add layers of complexity and depth to the story, enhancing its overall impact and resonance with readers.

➟ Overall Impression: 8/10
"Surviving Number 8" is a promising start to what promises to be an intriguing and immersive story. With well-developed characters, a gripping plot, and skillful writing, it offers readers an engaging reading experience that will leave them eagerly anticipating the next installment. While there may be areas for refinement and expansion, particularly in terms of character development and narrative complexity, the story's compelling premise and solid execution make it a worthwhile read for fans of drama and suspense. Overall, "Surviving Number 8" shows great potential and sets the stage for an enthralling exploration of interpersonal dynamics and resilience in the face of adversity.

.

.

.

.

But the frights don't end there!

First Runner Up: Prepare yourselves for a tale that will truly haunt your dreams – the bone-chilling The Case of Notre Dame Cathedral by Evolution-500. This work of horrific brilliance burrowed deep into our psyches with its masterful use of suspense and its terrifying exploration of the human condition. Congratulations!

JUDGE: AsherTheKookabura

TOTAL SCORE:: 79/100

➟ Book cover design: 2/5
The cover isn't the best, it doesn't give a mysterious vibe according to it's theme and genre nor does it aligns with the plot.

➟ Title: 4/5
The title is interesting and well thought. It is also quite captivating.

➟ Blurb relevance: 6/10
The blurb is a bit too long and in a single paragraph which can confuse the readers, it has alot of questions which might be a bit off for some readers.

➟ Plot & narrative structure: 17/20
The plot is really good and well written, it is well narrated and written smoothly throughout the book.

➟ Characterization: 14/15
Each character have their own traits in his book which is good and interesting for the readers to read. I especially loved Mr. Underwood's character because of his fun and smart personality.

➟ Writing mechanics: 17/20
The writing is good but again alot of scenes/actions are written in a single paragraph which makes it messy and hard for the reader to read. There aren't many grammatical or spelling mistakes which is good.

➟ Content/ Originality: 12/15
The plot is good. It Plays a good role in it's chosen genre and theme.

➟ Overall: 7/10
The book was fun to read a bit confusing at times but the plot was really good so it did cover up for the other points in the book. The cover should be changed as I personally did not think it was great, the title is good quite captivating and rememberable. Overall I enjoyed reading the book.

.

.

.

And now, the moment you've all been dreading...

The Winner: Emerging from the shroud of shadows, bathed in the eerie glow of the Grand Masquerade spotlight, we are thrilled to announce the undisputed master of horror for this year's competition! The award goes to AcapriccioRhythm for their terrifying masterpiece, Who killed Jessie Raegan?. This chilling narrative had our judges clutching their pearls (or whatever they clutch these days) with its originality, its terrifying atmosphere, and its unforgettable characters.Congratulations!

JUDGE: AsherTheKookabura

TOTAL SCORE: 85.5/100

➟ Book Cover Design 4/5 

The cover is good, it gives off a mysterious vibe and matches the theme of the book, the font seems a bit off and the bg of the fonts need a bit blending with the picture.

➟ Title: 3/5
The title is good, it gives away what the plot will be just with the title. It is interesting and a unique title.

➟ Blurb relevance: 7/10
The blurb is good, it tells about the plot in short which is good.

➟ Plot & narrative structure: 17/20
The plot flows smoothly throughout the chapters. Each of the chapters have their own essence to the story. Each chapter has a good start and end to keep the readers hooked to the story.

➟ Characterization: 13/15
The characters are great even the side characters play a nice role in the plot. I especially loved red's character, her character has a very interesting arc. All the characters are written very nicely and thoughtfully which keeps the reader engaged.

➟ Writing mechanics: 18/20
The writing is very smooth, the vocabulary is rich and easy at the same time which makes the reader understand the scene better. There aren't many grammatical or spelling mistakes which is good it makes the writing much better.

➟ Content & originality: 14.5/15
The story plays a good role in it's chosen genre and theme, it's plot is really good it gives the reader a different experience in the genre which is good.

➟ Overall impression: 9/10
The first chapter is very good and very interesting it keeps the readers hooked, the ending line is especially makes the reader want to read more which is great and i personally loved the first chapter. There aren't much mistakes in the writing which is a plus point. The cover is really good it captures the attention of the readers and matches the plot of the theme. The title is really good honestly it gives the reader a vivid image on what the plot can be and what is the story based on. Overall it was worth a read and a very interesting book.

A monstrous round of applause for all our finalists! Your talent has left us trembling in our boots. To the winner, congratulations! You have redefined horror for the year.

To the chilling storyteller whose name weren't called tonight, let out a collective howl of defiance! The Grand Masquerade of Writing Awards is a battlefield of nightmares, and every entry in the Crime & Horror category was a testament to your talent and the depths of your imagination.

Crafting tales that send shivers down spines and keep readers up at night is no small feat. You've conjured monsters, woven intricate plots, and explored the darkest corners of the human psyche.

Even though the top prizes were awarded, remember that your story holds immense power. The chills you captured on the page resonate, leaving a lasting impression on readers who crave the thrill and terror of Crime & Horror.

Who knows, next year, your story might be the one taking center stage at the Grand Masquerade! Until then, keep the darkness burning bright and have a look at what out judges have to say about your works!

JUDGE: mxtsuro

CLOWNY MESS by not_apricot (70/100)

➟ Book Cover: 3/5
The cover of "Clowny Mess" is a haunting visual that immediately grabs attention. The depiction of a sinister clown face, half-shadowed and leering, sets the tone for the unsettling narrative within. The contrast between the vibrant colors of the clown's makeup and the dark background enhances the ominous atmosphere, drawing readers into the world of horror awaiting them. However, while the imagery is striking, the choice of font for the title and author name could be more cohesive with the overall theme, perhaps opting for a more sinister or carnival-inspired style to further enhance the impact of the cover.

➟ Title: 3.5/5
"Clowny Mess" is a title that intrigues and entices, offering a glimpse into the chaos and horror that awaits readers within the pages of the book. It effectively encapsulates the essence of the story, hinting at the menacing presence of a clown figure and the turmoil it brings into the lives of the characters. The title's simplicity adds to its appeal, making it memorable and easy to recall, while its playfulness juxtaposed with the darker themes of the narrative creates a sense of irony that adds depth to its meaning.

➟ Blurb Relevance: 7.5/10
The blurb of "Clowny Mess" serves as a tantalizing teaser, providing readers with a glimpse into the gripping tale of horror and suspense that awaits them. It effectively outlines the central premise of the story, introducing protagonist Diana and her struggle to protect herself and her daughter from the malevolent influence of a sinister clown. The blurb sets the stage for a chilling and immersive reading experience, enticing readers with promises of suspense, intrigue, and heart-pounding terror. However, there is room for improvement in terms of clarity and coherence, with some aspects of the blurb feeling slightly disjointed or lacking in detail.

➟ Plot & Narrative Structure: 14.5/20
The narrative structure of "Clowny Mess" is carefully crafted to maximize tension and suspense, drawing readers deeper into the heart of darkness with each page turn. From the opening chapters that establish Diana's troubled past to the chilling encounters with the enigmatic clown that escalate in intensity as the story unfolds, the plot unfolds with precision, keeping readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. However, there are moments where the pacing feels slightly uneven, with certain scenes or transitions between chapters lacking the momentum needed to maintain the narrative's momentum. Tightening these transitions and refining the pacing could elevate the overall impact of the story, allowing for a more seamless reading experience.

➟ Characterization: 10/15
The characters in "Clowny Mess" are vividly drawn and multi-dimensional, each with their own unique personalities, quirks, and motivations that drive the narrative forward. Protagonist Diana is a compelling and relatable figure, whose resilience in the face of adversity serves as an anchor amidst the chaos unfolding around her. Antagonist Brandon, with his sinister presence and malevolent intent, is a chilling embodiment of evil, while supporting characters like Charles and Natalie add depth and nuance to the story through their interactions with Diana. However, while the main characters are well-developed, there are instances where secondary characters could benefit from further exploration and development to flesh out their roles within the narrative and add layers of complexity to their relationships with the central cast.

➟ Writing Mechanics: 14.5/20
The writing in "Clowny Mess" is evocative and atmospheric, painting a vivid picture of the eerie world inhabited by its characters. Descriptive passages are rich with detail, immersing readers in the sights, sounds, and sensations of the story's setting, while dialogue flows naturally and authentically, driving the plot forward and revealing insights into the characters' thoughts and emotions. However, there are occasional instances of grammatical errors, awkward phrasing, or repetition that detract from the overall readability of the text. Tightening up these areas and polishing the prose could enhance the clarity and impact of the writing, allowing for a more immersive and engaging reading experience.

➟ Content and Originality: 9.5/15
"Clowny Mess" delves into dark and unsettling themes, including domestic violence, trauma, and supernatural horror, with a level of depth and complexity that adds layers of meaning and resonance to the narrative. While these themes may be triggering for some readers, they are handled with sensitivity and nuance, offering thought-provoking insights into the human condition and the nature of fear. Additionally, while the premise of a haunting by a malevolent clown is not entirely new, the execution of the story brings a fresh perspective to the genre, offering twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the very end. The integration of psychological elements adds depth to the horror, blurring the lines between reality and nightmare in a way that is both unsettling and captivating.

➟ Overall Impression: 7.5/10
"Clowny Mess" is a gripping and atmospheric tale of terror that captivates readers with its compelling characters, chilling premise, and spine-tingling plot twists. While it may benefit from some refinement in terms of pacing, characterization, and writing mechanics, its originality and ability to evoke fear make it a noteworthy addition to the horror genre. Fans of psychological thrillers and supernatural suspense will find much to enjoy in this haunting and immersive read, which lingers in the mind long after the final page is turned.

Don't let the awards ceremony be the end of your journey. Keep writing, keep captivating, and remember - the darkness within you is a powerful source of creativity.

We can't wait to see what chilling tales you bring us next!

Certificates & Badges: These will be delivered digitally in a separate chapter plus via pinterest or email. Other prizes such as special ticket to interview shop, plot shop etc. will be awarded eventually.

Until then, STAY TUNED!