Romance novels have two guiding principles: A central Love story and an optimistic ending.
The following are sub-genres chosen for The Emily Contest, defined by the story's timeframe, plot elements and location.
Contemporary
Takes place after 1945, set in the time it is written, and reflects social behaviors of the time. Contemporary romances are usually set between the end of World War II to the present time.
Finalist Judges:
♥ Agent: Rebecca Strauss ~ DeFiore & Company
♥ Editor: Elizabeth Trout ~ Kensington Books
Mainstream with Romantic Elements
Set in any time period, in any sub-genre, with the primary focus on story, characterization, and reader entertainment. Always has a Happy Ever After or a Happy For Now ending.
Finalist Judges:
♥ Agent: Cori Deyoe ~ 3 Seas Literary
♥ Editor: Sinclair Sawhney ~ Tule Publishing Group
Fantasy, Futuristic, and Paranormal
Combines reality with fantasy, and may take place in an alternate world. FF&P romances include but are not limited to vampires, ghosts, werewolves, & other paranormal elements.
Finalist Judges:
♥ Agent: Carey Blankenship-Kramer ~ Belcastro Agency
♥ Editor: Sabrina Flemming ~ Grand Central Publishing
Historical Romance
Set any time prior to 1945, before the conclusion of World War II.
Finalist Judges:
♥ Agent: Kendall Berdinsky ~ Dystel, Godrich & Bourret
♥ Editor: Erin Molta ~ Entangled
Romantic Suspense
Combines romance with elements of mystery or suspense.
Finalist Judges:
♥ Agent: Scott Eagan ~ Greyhaus Literary
♥ Editor: Emma Cole~ Harlequin
Young Adult
Focus is on the lives of young people and contains strong romantic themes.
Finalist Judges:
♥ Agent: Nicole Payne ~ Copps Literary Services
♥ Editor: Lydia Sharp ~ Entangled
Best of the Best
Is a competition between the first place winners of each category. The winner will receive $100.
♥ Best of the Best Judge: Anna Brown ~ Katy Budget Books
