Thank you for your interest in entering the contest. The 2019 Rattler Contest opens August 1, 2019 for entries and closes at
5:00 pm Arizona time, August 31, 2019
5:00 pm Arizona time, August 31, 2019

The Rattler, hosted by Christian Writers of the West (ACFW-Arizona), is an exciting contest for unpublished fiction writers, or those who have not published in the last five years. Self-published authors are eligible, however you may not enter a manuscript that is in print or was available for purchase at any time in the last five years from date of entry.
All entrants receive feedback from published authors and/or experienced editors.
Best-selling author and publisher, Cynthia Hickey will judge finalists in each category. Overall winner receives a gift certificate for $150.
How to Enter
On or after August 1, 2019, submit the first 2,000 words of your novel plus a one-page synopsis (100-250 words) of the whole book no later than August 31, 2019. (Completed manuscript is not required to enter.)
You may enter as many times as you wish; however, for each submission you must also fill out an entry form and submit an additional entry fee of $30 (for members with coupon code) or $45 (nonmembers).
Please be sure to read the Contest Documents posted below for complete information.
Categories: Choose ONE per submission
Contemporary Fiction (includes Contemporary, Women’s, Romance)
Historical Romance (before 1960, includes Historical Romance)
Romantic Suspense/Thriller/Mystery
Young Adult (for under 18)
Speculative Fiction
* See Category Definitions here if necessary
Contemporary Fiction (includes Contemporary, Women’s, Romance)
Historical Romance (before 1960, includes Historical Romance)
Romantic Suspense/Thriller/Mystery
Young Adult (for under 18)
Speculative Fiction
* See Category Definitions here if necessary
Contest Documents
TO ENTER CONTEST
- Read Contest Rules and guidelines.
- Complete Rattler 2019 Contest Entry Form.
- Upload your manuscript in the space provided within the entry form.
- Pay your entry fee using the online entry form.
- Submit completed entry form.