Earlier this year I submitted The Maiden Voyage of the Maryann to the Writer’s Digest Self-Published Book Award. While I did not win – I did receive some direct feedback from one of the three judges in my category. I agree with they said and I’ve learned so much in the last year from my writing buddies at Cambria Writers Workshop that it feels like I’ve gone a long way in my own personally directed MFA. I plan to spend time in the remainder of 2015 addressing their suggestions and re-releasing Maiden Voyage in early 2016 with a more aggressive marketing campaign.

Here is the feedback.  I’ve left out the suggestions but as you can see by the numerical scoring they were pretty minor.

THE MAIDEN VOYAGE OF THE MARYANN by Linda Reed is an enjoyable read for anyone looking for a tale of adventure, ancestors, pirates, treasures, but with a deeper meaning of discovery. I can see this book dotting beaches everywhere this summer!…

… I think this author has talent. The story moves well and keeps the reader engaged and enchanted….

Judge, 23rd Annual Writer’s Digest Self-Published Book Awards.

——–

Numerical Scoring:                                                                                                                 Structure, Organization, and Pacing: 5                                                                             Spelling, Punctuation, and Grammar:  4                                                                             Production Quality and Cover Design: 4                                                                                     Plot and Story Appeal: 5                                                                                                   Character Appeal and Development: 5                                                                                   Voice and Writing Style: 5

Thank you Writer’s Digest for the suggestions and feedback. I’m inspired and grateful.