Before we unveil the dazzling young adult stories that captured the hearts of our judges, The Grand Masquerade of Writing Awards would like to express our deepest gratitude to our incredible panel in the Young Adult category!

🥀Ablazeisaleo

🥀Angelic_Maddness

Navigating the complexities of young adulthood in fiction requires a keen eye and a youthful spirit. Your dedication and insightful judgment have been instrumental in selecting the most captivating, heartwarming, and thought-provoking YA tales this year.

Thanks to your expertise, we can celebrate stories that resonate with young readers and tackle real-life challenges with honesty and hope. You've ensured that these narratives will not only entertain but also inspire and empower the next generation.

So, to our esteemed Young Adult judges, from the bottom of our masquerade masks, THANK YOU. Your contribution to the awards is invaluable.

Now, get ready to be transported to worlds of friendship, first loves, and self-discovery as we reveal the talented young adult authors who will take home the Grand Masquerade trophies!

A round of applause for all our finalists! Your talent has transported us to captivating worlds and ignited the spark of young adulthood.

Our Top-Contenders in this category were:-

🥀AsiaAlexandria

🥀AJ_Catty

🥀cool-cat2023

🥀lostlovefairy

First, let's celebrate the rising stars who secured the coveted runner-up positions!

Second Runner Up: A story brimming with friendship and self-discovery takes home the award! lostlovefairy wins with their captivating novel, NOT MY LITTLE SISTER. This heartwarming tale resonated with our judges, highlighting the power of connection and the courage to find your own path.

JUDGE: @angelic_maddness:

TOTAL SCORE: 88/100

➟ Book Cover Design [ 05 marks]: (4/5): The book cover boasts a professional and visually appealing design that sets a positive tone for readers, effectively reflecting the genre and themes of the story.

➟ Title[05 marks]: (4/5) effectively captures the central conflict of the story, promising readers a compelling narrative centered around the protagonist's struggles and choices.

➟Blurb Relevance[10 marks]:(9/10):The blurb effectively conveys the core elements of the story without revealing spoilers, enticing readers to delve deeper into the narrative.

➟Plot & Narrative Structure (20 marks): (17/20):Example: The plot effectively hooks readers from the start with Vinaya's dilemma, setting clear stakes and driving the narrative forward. Example: Vinaya's ultimatum from her parents to agree to an arranged marriage in exchange for pursuing her medical dreams.

➟ Characterization (15 marks): (13/15): Vinaya's character is well-rounded and developed throughout the story. Example: Her determination to pursue her dreams despite familial pressure showcases her depth and growth.

•Depth & Believability: Are the characters well-rounded individuals with unique personalities, motivations, and flaws?Are the characters well-rounded individuals with unique personalities, motivations, and flaws? Yes. the characters are portrayed as multifaceted individuals with distinct personalities, motivations, and flaws. Vinaya, the protagonist, grapples with the weight of parental expectations and societal norms while harboring steadfast aspirations for her medical career in the United States. Accompanying her are a diverse cast of characters, each contributing to the depth and authenticity of the narrative with their own unique traits and complexities.

•Development: Do the characters grow and change throughout the story? Is there a clear character arc for the protagonist?Do the characters grow and change throughout the story? Is there a clear character arc for the protagonist? Throughout the narrative, the characters undergo significant development, navigating emotional highs and lows, triumphs and setbacks. Vinaya's arc, in particular, is marked by moments of introspection, revelation, and personal transformation as she confronts her past, grapples with present dilemmas, and ultimately embraces her future with newfound clarity and resolve. This evolution adds depth and richness to the story, resonating with readers as they witness the characters' journeys of growth and self-discovery.

•Dialogue: Does the dialogue feel natural and reveal character personalities effectively? In "Vinaya's Dilemma," the dialogue is a powerful tool for character development, seamlessly blending authenticity with purpose. Conversations between characters feel organic, reflecting their distinct personalities, motivations, and relationships. Through dialogue, readers gain insights into each character's inner thoughts, emotions, and conflicts, enhancing the depth and believability of the narrative.

➟ Writing Mechanics (20 marks): (18/20):The writing is clear, concise, and engaging, enhancing the overall quality of the story. Example: Descriptive passages, such as Vinaya's reflections on her past relationship with Amit Singh, draw readers into the emotional core of the narrative.

•Clarity & Conciseness: The writing is exceptionally clear and easy to understand. It avoids unnecessary exposition, getting straight to the heart of the narrative and maintaining reader engagement throughout.

•Grammar & Mechanics: There are no noticeable grammatical errors, typos, or punctuation mistakes, ensuring a smooth and polished reading experience.

•Writing Style & Voice: It pulls readers into the story with its rich and varied vocabulary, creating a vivid and immersive reading experience. The writing style is engaging, allowing readers to connect deeply with the characters and their experiences.

➟ Content & Originality (15 marks):(13/15):The story offers a fresh perspective on familiar themes, adding depth to the narrative. Example: Vinaya's internal struggle between familial obligations and personal aspirations is presented in a nuanced and thought-provoking manner.

•Originality: - Does the story offer a fresh perspective or unique voice within its genre? Yes, and a nice change of pace.

Does it present innovative ideas, a captivating twist on a familiar theme, or a thought-provoking exploration of social issues? Does the story stand out from the crowd with its ingenuity and creativity? Very much so. It shows how real-life temptations and day-to-day actions can impact your whole life.

➟ Overall Impression (10 marks): (8/10):Despite minor flaws, the book leaves a positive impression overall. Example: Its compelling plot, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking themes resonate with readers, making it a memorable reading experience.

" Not my little Sister" intricately weaves together themes of familial expectation, personal ambition, cultural identity, and romantic tension to create a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.

The protagonist, Vinaya, faces a pivotal moment in her life as she navigates the pressures of her MBBS internship while confronting her parents' insistence on marriage before pursuing her dreams in the US. The tension between her resolute ambitions and her family's expectations sets the stage for a captivating journey of self-discovery and growth.

As Vinaya embarks on her clinical rotation in New York City, readers are drawn into her world of new beginnings, where she grapples with cultural challenges, past relationships, and unexpected connections. The complexities of her past with Amit Singh, juxtaposed with her budding attraction to Nithin, add layers of depth to her character and influence her present choices.

Throughout the narrative, Vinaya's internal struggle serves as a compass, guiding her toward authenticity, cultural awareness, and personal growth. Her journey is not without obstacles, as she faces the emotional strain of patient care, the challenge of balancing knowledge and skills, and the importance of effective communication in a healthcare setting.

The dynamics between Vinaya and Nithin further heighten the tension, as they navigate their growing attraction amidst professional turmoil and personal dilemmas. Their relationship is underscored by a web of emotional, cultural, and practical challenges, making their journey both captivating and complex.

Overall, "Not my little Sister" captivates readers with its compelling plot, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking themes. It offers a fresh perspective on familiar tropes, adding depth and originality to the narrative. With its engaging writing style and relatable characters, this book leaves a lasting impression and is sure to resonate with readers seeking a captivating read.

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But the masquerade ball is just getting started!

First Runner Up: Prepare to be swept off your feet by the captivating LOST IN THE FREY by AsiaAlexandria . This emotionally charged story explored the complexities of first love, leaving our judges yearning for more.

JUDGE: Angelic_Maddness

TOTAL SCORE: 91/100

➟ Book Cover Design [ 05 marks]: [3 /5] :While not the sole indicator of quality, a professional and visually appealing cover design can create a positive first impression and reflect the genre and tone of the story. The cover seems a bit lacking, but also might be played down to not overshadow the story.

➟ Title[05 marks]: [5/5 ] Fresh and relevant to the plot.

➟Blurb Relevance[10 marks]:[10/10]Does the blurb accurately portray the story's key elements and themes? Does it entice the reader without giving away spoilers? Is it well-written and free of grammatical errors?Excellent example of how to reel in the reader.

➟Plot & Narrative Structure (20 marks): [17/20]

Plot and Narrative:

Engagement (8/10):The plot hooks the reader from the start with Milo's life-changing news—the Olympic qualification.The stakes rise as Nia's cautiousness around water becomes a central theme.Milo's feelings for Nia create emotional complexity.Structure (9/10):The narrative transitions smoothly from Milo's achievement (Olympic qualification) to the distraction caused by Nia's presence.The coach's understanding and encouragement serve as a pivotal moment.The story concludes with a well-defined ending.

➟ Characterization (15 marks): [15/15] Characters are the heart of the story. Depth & Believability:Milo:Milo is a well-rounded character with clear motivations related to swimming and Olympic dreams.His flaws, such as single-minded focus, make him believable.Nia:Nia's unique history of kidney disease and transplant adds depth.Her cautiousness around water reflects her vulnerability.Coach:The coach, though secondary, reveals depth through understanding and encouragement.Their flaws, like occasional tough love, make them realistic.Development:Milo's Arc:Milo's shift from solely focusing on swimming to prioritizing Nia's well-being shows growth.His realization that life isn't just about medals is a clear character arc.Nia's Journey:Nia's transformation from survivor to someone learning to trust again is subtle but significant.Her cautiousness around water symbolizes her healing process.Coach's Role:The coach's development lies in recognizing athletes as more than medals—they're human beings with emotions.Dialogue:Naturalness:Milo and Nia's conversations feel authentic, revealing their personalities.The coach's words strike a balance between firmness and compassion.Revealing Personalities:Milo's dialogue shows determination and growing empathy.Nia's cautious words hint at her past struggles.The coach's advice reflects wisdom and experience.

➟ Writing Mechanics (20 marks): [20/20] The quality of writing elevates the story.

Clarity & Conciseness:[ 6.15] Some sentences could benefit from clearer organization and more concise phrasing.Consider revising for greater clarity and eliminating unnecessary words.

Grammar & Mechanics: [6.15] Overall, your grammar and mechanics are solid. A few minor errors (e.g., punctuation, word choice) could be addressed.

Writing Style & Voice: [7.69] Your writing style is engaging and consistent. Your voice shines through, creating a connection with readers.

➟ Content & Originality (15 marks):[14/15]
Genre Adherence:[ 7] The story adheres to some genre conventions but could further emphasize specific elements.Consider enhancing genre-specific features to create a more immersive experience.Originality: [7] While the story has unique aspects, there's room for further innovation.Explore fresh perspectives or unexpected twists to elevate its originality.

➟ Overall Impression (10 marks): [9/10]Character Depth: The story delves deeply into the characters of Nia and Milo, revealing their inner struggles and growth throughout the narrative. For instance, Nia's resilience in the face of chronic illness and Milo's internal conflict and familial responsibilities are effectively portrayed. (Excerpt: "Nia's Health Challenges" and "Character Exploration: Milo")

➟ Emotional Depth: Each character's journey is marked by emotional depth, allowing readers to connect with their experiences on a profound level. Moments such as Nia seeking solace in Simon's office or Milo's elation at qualifying for the Olympics evoke strong emotions and empathy from the audience. (Excerpt: "Simon's Support" and "Milo's Achievement")

➟ Themes of Resilience and Support: The story effectively explores themes of resilience, family support, and friendship, highlighting the importance of relationships in overcoming challenges. Nia's unwavering resilience despite her health struggles and Milo's supportive role in her life exemplify these themes. (Excerpt: "Support System" and "Milo's Support")

➟ Intriguing Plot Developments: The narrative includes various plot developments, from conflicts on the sports field to intimate moments in the attic, keeping readers engaged and curious about the characters' fates. Moments like Nia's unexpected encounter with Milo and Milo's interaction with his coach about qualifying for the Olympics add depth to the story. (Excerpt: "Unexpected Encounter" and "Milo's Achievement")

➟ Diverse Themes: The story touches on diverse themes such as health challenges, familial relationships, friendship, and self-discovery, offering a rich tapestry of experiences. These themes resonate with readers and add layers of complexity to the narrative, making it compelling and relatable. (Excerpt: "Nia's Struggle" and "Milo's Responsibility")

Overall, the story effectively captures the emotional complexities of adolescence, friendship, and resilience amidst health challenges. With its well-developed characters, poignant themes, and intriguing plot developments, it has the potential to resonate deeply with readers and leave a lasting impact.

Adding up these scores, the total is 91 out of a possible 100 points. Therefore, "Lost in the Frey" still maintains an A grade, showcasing excellence across various aspects of storytelling and presentation.

And now, the moment you've all been waiting for...

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The Winner: Stepping into the spotlight, bathed in the golden glow of the Grand Masquerade, we are thrilled to announce the undisputed champion of the young adult category! The award goes to AJ_Catty for their magnificent novel, OFF KEY. This imaginative and thought-provoking story captivated our judges with its unique voice, relatable characters, and powerful message.

JUDGE: @Ablazeisaleo

TOTAL SCORE: 97/100

➟ Cover: 4/5 The cover gives me the cute chick-lit vibes and I love the color theme as a whole but there is this feeling that something is missing. I believe adding the author's name below rather than above the title would complete it.

➟ Title: 5/5 Short, crisp, and intriguing! I could already sense that the title is referring to some faltering dynamics between the main characters which makes it even more intriguing as I'm very curious to know what's so off between the characters!

➟ Blurb: 9/10  I love how precise and to the dot the blurb is been put up. We are introduced to the main characters, and I love how you have stressed on the fact that they have actually met before which adds another layer of intensity. The only shortcoming I felt would be a lack of cliffhanger question towards the end which would have added an even more gripping aura to the entire blurb.

➟ Plot: 20/20 Wow! Now this is exactly how a young adult book should look like! No surreal drama, no drooling over highschool boys, but everything set up naturally and perfectly! I'm literally on the edge of my seat to know what exactly Lucca did to become a sworn enemy of Emi and especially with that cliffhanger in the last chapter? Author, you deserve a raise! I really want to know what's his connection with Emi's mom which makes her hate him so much. Good job!

➟ Characterization: 15/15 I'll have to give this a full because why not! Each character has it's own aura which I could certainly imagine in real life. Jazzy really came out to me as that one energetic friend who always hangs around you and as for Emi and Lucca, I'm all ears to know what's going on between them.

➟ Writing Style: 19/20 Flawless and precise! I just kept reading and reading, my mind immersed in the whole plot. It was natural like wow! I almost felt like the story was happening around me. Now the reason why I had to cut down that one mark would be the lack of adding whose pov we are reading on top of the chapter. Now I know that you have added beside the chapter's name but not everyone might look closely into that. Apart from that, everything's simply a chef's kiss or should I say a reader's kiss?

➟ Originality: 15/15 Something that I really loved is that we didn't open up with a clichéd highschool drama because we all know it's overused. Instead, I was flabbergasted to have opened up with some intensive as this! Lucca what did you really do?!

➟ Overall Enjoyment: 10/10 As a person whose not into young adult genre at all, this book really pulled me in. I want to know more!

A round of applause for all our finalists! Your talent has transported us to captivating worlds and ignited the spark of young adulthood. To the winner, congratulations! You've redefined what it means to tell a YA story.

HONOURABLE MENTION:

The Periodic Table Of Love by Cool-cat2023

JUDGE: Ablazeisaleo

TOTAL SCORE:: 87/100

➟ Cover: 1/5 Being honest, the cover looks very bland and not very much intriguing to actually capture the attention of the readers. We all know graphics isn't everyone's cup of tea so I'd suggest you to check out the graphic shops in Wattpad that could help rectify this issue.

➟ Title: 5/5 The title pulled me in already as it directly hints to the genre of the story without beating round the bush. I could already expect some romance and young adult vibes in the story. 

➟ Blurb: 2/10 The blurb as of now sounds more like a short description of the story. A more professional version of the blurb would a little more insight into who Eleana is, the setting of the plot, a little intro bout Marcus and ending with a cliffhanger.

➟ Plot: 19/20 Something that leads readers away from the young adult category would be the lack of originality between the characters which makes it too surreal but I must admit the amount of originality you have invested in this book to make it as real and relatable as possible. Eleana is each and every one of us who wants to get recognized by that specific Marcus lol. The only shortcoming I felt would be the heavy grammatical mistakes throughout the story which sometimes made me go through the paragraphs again to understand what it was really trying to tell me. 

➟ Characterization: 15/15 I really dont wanna cut marks here as I loved how each and every character has their own respective screen times within the story. Instead of focusing the story on Eleana and Marcus alone, I love how you gave importance to Eleana's mom, her boyfriend Stephen, and ofcourse other side characters like Deb. It really emphasized more on the backstory and helped to develop a solid plot rather than fluctuating between Eleana and Marcus. Good job!

➟ Writing Style: 20/20 Natural, natural, and more natural! I felt like hearing my best friend rant about her life when I read Eleana's pov as it was that natural, lucid, and seamless. There was nothing too overboard with the dialogues nor nothing too less. Everything was just perfect that I really want to keep reading more. Another plus point would be the short chapters that made it even more interesting to have a quick little read. Good job!

➟ Originality: 15/15 The plot might be same in each and every young adult genre book but something that I cannot ignore is that special creative touch which is none other than realistic setting and dialogue which is imparted to the characters that makes them stand out.

➟ Overall Enjoyment: 10/10 Not a huge fan of young adult books but this one would be an exception. Great job author!

To the young authors whose stories didn't take center stage, remember – the masquerade ball is far from over!

The Grand Masquerade of Writing Awards is fiercely competitive, and every entry in the Young Adult category showcased your incredible talent and passion for storytelling. Capturing the joys, struggles, and complexities of young adulthood takes a special kind of magic, and your stories are proof of that!

Even though the top prizes were awarded, your narratives hold immense power. The characters you brought to life, the emotions you evoked, and the journeys you created resonate with readers who seek connection in the world of YA fiction.

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!

BOOK TITLE: Forever is the sweetest con

BY @Rosecherry2602

JUDGE: Angelic_Maddness

TOTAL SCORE: 79/100

➟ Book Cover Design [ 05 marks]: 3 / 5 Total

"The cover design strikes a balance between simplicity and intrigue, capturing the essence of the book without overwhelming the eye. Its thoughtful layout ensures key elements are front and center, effectively drawing readers' attention. The incorporation of the main characters into the design adds a personal touch that promises a deeper connection to their stories."

➟ Title[05 marks]: 5/5 Total

Forever is the Sweetest Con" is not just a phrase, but a narrative that encapsulates the essence of a love story with a twist. The title suggests a romance that is as enduring as it is unexpected, hinting at the depth and complexity of the relationships within. It's a clever play on words , and a nod to Taylor Swift that invites readers to delve into a tale where love itself may be the most intricate con of all.

➟Blurb Relevance[10 marks]: 7/10 Total

The blurb for "Forever is the Sweetest Con" is crafted with a magnetic allure, designed to ensnare the reader's curiosity from the very first line. The language used is evocative and rich, painting a vivid picture of the high-stakes emotional gamble between the protagonists. It promises a journey filled with twists and turns, where the very notion of 'forever' is questioned.

Plot & Narrative Structure (20 marks): Out of the total 20 I break this story down by these subcategories

•Engagement and Structure: The narrative weaves a captivating tale set against the vibrant backdrop of Seoul, where art and intrigue collide. The protagonist, Jungkook, is a relatable figure whose journey through the clandestine world of mafia operations is both thrilling and emotionally charged. The story's strength lies in its ability to blend poetic expressions and vivid artistic imagery, creating a rich, sensory experience for the reader. Dramatic tension is skillfully maintained, with the looming possibility of a plot twist keeping the reader on edge. The interplay of romance, danger, and the pursuit of self-discovery makes for an engrossing read that promises to hold the audience's attention from start to finish

➟ Characterization (15 marks):[12/15]

Depth & Believability (5 marks): [4/5] Characters seem to have depth, with personal struggles and a connection to the larger narrative, making them believable. 

Development(5 marks): [4/5]Characters appear to undergo significant development, growing through challenges and experiences. 

Dialogue (5 marks): [4/5]The characters' dialogue likely reflects their personalities and adds to the story's depth.

➟ Writing Mechanics (20 marks):[16/20]

Clarity & Conciseness (7 marks): [6/7]The narrative seems clear, with a focused plot and vivid imagery that conveys the story effectively without unnecessary complexity. 

Grammar & Mechanics (7 marks): [5/7] Assuming the writing follows standard grammatical rules and the mechanics of writing are solid, with proper punctuation and sentence structure. 

Writing Style & Voice (6 marks): [5/6]The style appears engaging and unique, with a voice that reflects the artistic theme of the story and the emotional journey of the characters.

➟ Content & Originality (15 marks): [12/15]

Innovation: [4/5]The story seems to offer a fresh take on the intersection of art and the criminal underworld. 

Creative Use of Language: [4/5]The narrative includes poetic lines and artistic imagery, suggesting a creative use of language. 

Engagement with the Reader: [4/5] The elements of drama, tension, and potential plot twists likely keep the reader engaged. 

Overall Impression (8/10):

- Enjoyment: The story is enjoyable but may have areas that could be improved for reader satisfaction.

Memorability: The story has memorable elements, but it might benefit from more distinctive features. 

- Recommendation Potential: It's recommendable, though it may not appeal to all types of readers. 

~ Character Depth: While the characters are engaging, providing additional layers to their backstories and motivations could make them even more compelling and relatable.

~ Pacing: Fine-tuning the pacing to ensure a steady flow can help maintain reader interest throughout, especially during complex plot developments.

~ Dialogue: Sharpening the dialogue to make it more distinct and reflective of each character's personality can add to the believability and depth of the interactions.

~ Improving these areas could lead to a richer reading experience, making the story more immersive and resonant with a wider audience. Remember, these suggestions are based on a hypothetical analysis and should be tailored to the specific content of the story.

This isn't the end of your journey – it's just the beginning! Keep writing, keep dreaming, and remember – the next award-winning YA story might just be yours.

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!