Previous Finalists

Comments from Authors/Publishers

’The Wishing Shelf Awards are a unique and valuable way for any author to get meaningful feedback and critique on their book(s) from readers. The responses, from my experience, are mature and insightful, covering such things as narrative style, dialogue, plot, excitement factor and reader engagement. Above all, the critiques are honest and don’t pander to the author; which is essential for any writer to learn and grow. I am looking forward to the next opportunity to submit another novel.’

A H Richards, author of Kronos Duet

’I was bulldozed into writing the story of my parents’ secret love and the search for the father who I never knew.
It was my first attempt at writing, so the entire experience ― from the years of research to the years of writing― have been a learning curve for me.
A 2013 finalist bought my book and recommended that I enter it into The Wishing Shelf Awards 2016… and here I am.
To find a website that can provide feedback services for an indie author, like myself, who needs to develop and learn without it costing a fortune, is like finding family…which is what my book is all about.
Although I did not expect to make the finals in the 2016 awards, my book has won a Red Ribbon and highly recommended by the 16 judges.
Their feedback has been both constructive and confidence-building for me. I would highly recommend The Wishing Shelf Awards to anyone.’

Jess Welsby, author of The Daddy of all Mysteries

’The Wishing Shelf Awards offer indie authors a unique experience compared to other award programs - they actually get your book in the hands of your target audience, who provides great, quotable feedback. As a YA author, a lot of the feedback I get is from adults. They were able to confirm for me what I suspected, teens enjoy my book! Don’t hesitate to enter this contest, it’s well worth the cost.’

Kat Stiles, author of Connected

’Submitting to Wishing Shelf was a worthwhile and valuable experience for me.’

Julie Whitley, author of The Secrets of the Home Wood

’I entered the world of indie and self-publishing uncertain of where I was going or what I was doing. I already had very positive feedback on my first book, THE ATTUNING, from many friends and fans. Still unsure of myself I entered it into The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. I was not a finalist, but I felt like one. Many of the readers and judges for the award loved the story, and this only positively reinforced my decision to chase my dream and become a writer. Thanks, Wishing Shelf!’

Kristofer M. Hanson, author of The Attuning