Many authors have stopped offering contests this past year because they don't seem to generate enough interest to make them worthwhile.

I believe it's because of places readers can go to enter contests without ever having heard of an author's work or read anything she's written. All they have to do is enter their name and address and hope they have the luck of the draw.

In my last contest, I asked entrants to tell me their favorite scene from Always Mine, Midnight's Bride or Risk Everything. I was trying to find what you like to read and what gets to your emotions the most. What is it? Humor? Tension? Sensual scenes?

The people who responded included their names and addresses, but most failed to answer with their favorite scene or what type book they liked the most. I left the contest up past the November date, deciding what to do.

I changed the prizes somewhat because of the circumstances.

The First Prize winner received a $25.00 Gift Certificate from Barnes & Noble for taking the time to tell me her favorite scene in each book. As a surprise gift, I also sent her a Clan MacKay Brushed Pewter Kilt Pin.

The Second Prize winner also received a $25.00 Gift Certificate from Barnes & Noble for letting me know she enjoyed humor mixed in with tension. In addition, she received autographed copies of Lori Devoti's Love Is All You Need and Unbound, and Caroline Linden's What a Gentleman Wants.

I've decided to offer contests only on special occasions. If you'd like, drop me a line below and tell me what you think about author contests.

Take care,

Please send your name, mailing address, email, and a note about your view on author contests.