Previous Finalists

Comments from Authors/Publishers

'I discovered the Wishing Shelf Book Awards (WSBA) through an on-line review of the Alliance for Independent Authors (ALLI) ratings of book competitions. WSBA was among a handful of awards and contests given ALLI’s highest rating compared to a host of others. I would urge anyone interested in entering an award competition to visit this site.

Edward Trayer, who founded the WSBA and is its administrator, makes every effort to ensure a high quality experience for author participants. I found him to be extremely helpful, responsive, and knowledgeable. He is an award-winning, highly successful author himself and knows firsthand what is meaningful and attractive for authors when it comes to book awards. He and his staff are constantly looking for ways to improve and enhance value. One of things I like the best about the WSBA is that its benefits extend beyond the competition itself-whether or not you are a winner or finalist. This competition is a superior value and a terrific experience for authors.'


George Yuhasz, author of Imagine That: The Magic of the Mysterious Lights

'Entering The Wishing Shelf Awards has be a wonderful experience. It is so great to receive honest feedback from my target audience. My book went on to be a silver medal winner which is the best feeling ever it has given me confidence in myself and my books and also helped with book promotion.'

Cheryl Lee-White, author of The Book of Silly Rhymes

'The Wishing Shelf Book Awards are extremely helpful for any author working and publishing independently who wishes to measure their writing progress and find encouragement. Edward Trayer(Billy Bob Buttons), the organiser and his colleagues are extremely supportive with clear instructions and information and regular feedbacks. Unlike some writing competitions it is vouched for by Alli, is not as expensive to enter as most, and is European with judges who are keen readers as opposed to industry insiders, offering informed assessments probably giving a view more in line with that of the average reader. The feedback is straightforward and honest giving a comprehensive and constructive assessment of the book being reviewed. Obviously being reviewed can be challenging but it is a necessary and invaluable part of being an author. I strongly recommend participating.'

Michael Hill, author of Llywelyn

'The Wishing Shelf Awards gave me wonderful feedback, reviews and an award that is helping me improve my writing and marketing. It was such a delight to have my YA Fantasy book in front of actual teen readers in my target base who spent time assessing my cover, blurb, editing, writing and overall content. It also have me, as a USA author, a platform to UK teen readers. Thanks so much for providing an affordable option that has high value return for a new indie author.'

Cami Murdock Jensen, author of First Earth

'The Wishing Shelf Awards is unique is several ways. First, the judges are not industry insiders (publishers, agents, etc.) but rather they are enthusiastic readers. Which I think makes them more representative of the actual audience for any give novel. The other thing that makes the award unique is that the authors get feedback from the judges, and that is invaluable. Furthermore Edward Trayer (aka Billy Bob Buttons) provides regular updates and progress reports. Finally the whole thing is handled with a great deal of enthusiasm, and it's great fun.'

Scott Charles, author of The Illustrated Hen