1. The contest is a 1500 First Kiss Scene
The contest is for a First Kiss scene of 1500 words, by computer count, including any chapter headings or section divisions, etc. PLUS a 250 words overview to the scene. Both pieces of writing will be judged.
Both published and unpublished writers are eligible to enter this contest but all entrants must be current financial members of RWNZ.
3. Entry conditions
Entries must be previously unpublished (includes publication in Liaisons, RWNZ’s in-house magazine). Entries may include a wide variety of themes, such as mystery, humour, relationships and family issues, with warmth an important factor. All stories must contain a romantic thread or element. An author may submit up to two entries, and alternative versions of the same entry are not permitted. A separate completed online entry form must be completed for each entry, with a separate entry fee of $12NZ is payable for each entry.
Entries must be as near to 1500 words as possible but no longer, verified by computer count. This count will include any chapter headings and/or section divisions, etc. Stories of longer than 1500 words and a 250 word introduction will result in disqualification of the entry.
All rights to entered manuscripts remain with the entrant.
4. Judging
Entries will be read by five RWNZ Member judges. The top and bottom scores will be dropped and the remaining three scores averaged.The number of finalists is dependent on the number of entries received: up to 15 entries—3 finalists; 16-20 entries—4 finalists; 21 plus entries—5 finalists. The finalists will be judged by an editor or agent TBC.
5. RWNZ decisions are final
Failure to comply with any or all of these rules may result in the entry being not accepted or disqualified.
Daphne Clair de Jong First Kiss Rules and General Contest Rules both apply
These Rules are to be read and followed in conjunction with the below General Contest Rules for all entrants.