Judge Training – FF&P
FF&P Romance Category
THE SCORE SHEET ~ ALL SPECIFIC SECTIONS
~Some of the explanations are the same for general questions which require some expected knowledge of the sub-genre. If you require a more in-depth definition of the genre…please send an email for additional information. Additional resources are being posted this week.
~For your convenience we’ve included a description of the Fantasy, Futuristic & Paranormal category as described on our FINAL EDITORS page.
*FF&P ROMANCE*
Alternate Earth /Dystopian / Futuristic / Fantasy / Time Travel / Paranormal / Urban Fantasy
Romantic novels of any time setting (historical or futuristic) with Alternate Earth Histories, Dystopian, Futuristic, Fantasy, Time Travel, Paranormal or Urban Fantasy. Please keep in mind that the emphasis should be on the romance. An example is the 2017 RWA RITA winner: The Pages of the Mind by Jeffe Kennedy.
ONLY ON THE SPECIALIZED SCORE SHEET
This third setting question is not seen in other categories.
SETTING: possible 15 points
Is the world well defined yet understandable for the reader without being overwhelming?
While all novels feature an element of world-building, in that the author makes the setting ‘ real’ for the reader, novels in the FF&P category expand on this skill and build alternate worlds that become more of a character than merely a setting. The world built should seem plausible and well-defined, without confusing the reader with excessive technical jargon. The setting should accentuate the characters and their actions, not overpower them. But please keep in mind that many FF&P romances are set in the present day and may have a paranormal element or feel. Do NOT deduct points for having a real-world setting.
SPECIFIC TO THE FF&P CATEGORY
Alternate Earth /Dystopian / Futuristic / Fantasy / Time Travel / Paranormal / Urban Fantasy
Possible 15 point total to award, 5 points per question
| FANTASY, FUTURISTIC & PARANORMAL CATEGORY | |
| Is the manuscript’s treatment of the specialized elements (paranormal / fantasy / futuristic / time travel / alternate earth / dystopian) organic to the story, in that the world-build and the characters complement a natural and realistic plot? | |
| Is the manuscript’s treatment of the specialized elements (paranormal / fantasy / futuristic / time travel / alternate earth / dystopian) organic to the story, in that the world-build and the characters complement a natural and realistic plot? | |
| Are the protagonists’ unique aspects (paranormal / fantasy / futuristic / time travel / alternate earth / dystopian) credible and do they work within the world built? | |
| Are the secondary characters necessary, interesting, and believable? | |
| Comments: |
While stories in this category may require an unworldly atmosphere the reader may or may not be accustomed to, they may also have some specialized element as an integral part of the plot. The category is not simply an alternate reality–it is also a ROMANCE. So an element of romance/attraction or the potential of attraction hopefully is evident.
Breaking Down the Questions
Is the manuscript’s treatment of the specialized elements (paranormal / fantasy / futuristic / time travel / alternate earth / dystopian) organic to the story, in that the world-building and the characters complement a natural and realistic plot?
Please keep in mind there isn’t a point deduction if an unique universe isn’t present. Marvel’s Avengers certainly has many unique otherworldly qualities, but the actual “world” is present day.
As in any sub-genre of writing, the characters, setting, and conflict must work together to build a cohesive plot. The introduction of unique characters and/or worlds should enhance and flow with the plot. And of course, the unique world created by the author should be able to sustain a story. Even a story about a time loop repeating the same day must have a different purpose to repeat the day over again (i.e.: Groundhog Day where Bill Murray’s character learned new things in order to make changes/save people).
Are the protagonists’ unique aspects (paranormal / fantasy / futuristic / time travel / alternate earth / dystopian) credible and do they work within the world built?
The protagonists should behave and interact in ways that makes sense for their character traits and work within the parameters and the ‘rules’ set in their world. As in any good novel, the reader needs to believe that the protagonists’ behaviors are consistent with their internal and external driving forces. Many Urban Fantasy stories use the world as we see it. A good film example are the Avenger Universe series. Each of the Avengers have abilities which must stay consistent or get invented by Tony Stark.
Are the secondary characters necessary, interesting, and believable?
As with any length and any sub-genre of romance, the secondary characters must have a purpose in the scene. A second character in the room is the perfect way to give the reader information without the POV character just thinking about it. Dialogue is always better (in my humble opinion). But be careful the character doesn’t begin an info-dump. If this seems the case, will this suggestion help? Example: the author may try a mental note that the secondary character is talking a lot or have the discussion with the secondary character. In other words, draw all the characters into the scene and make it necessary to forward the plot.
If you have specific questions regarding this section or any entry, please contact [email protected].
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Most of the opinions on judging and interpreting the questions’ intent are my own words. I’ve been in the business over 15 years and have spoken to many authors, gathering information. A lot of the time when a question is asked, I go to authors who publish in that genre for advice. Please use your own expertise and experience, but keep our humble interpretations in mind.
~Thanks, Angi Morgan
Contributions and edits by Fenley Grant