No, not the holiday season, although that’s approaching faster than I’d like. I’m talking about the ebook awards season.

Last weekend, the Dream Realm Awards were announced in Texas. They recognize excellence in sci-fi, fantasy, and horror ebooks, including the erotic works in those genres. DRA is a small but very well-respected organization run by Samandi Adams. Submissions are peer-judged. It truly was an honor to be a finalist, especially since my and Will’s entry (ArtiFactual) was not heavily anchored in sci-fi, fantasy, or horror.

The end of this month marks the submission deadline for the Rauxa Prize. It’s free to enter and prestigious to win (as our Selena knows), and it also carries a hefty cash prize. This contest is judged blind by some of the most renowned names in the erotica universe. Erotic fiction up to 10K words (including excerpts from novel-length work) published or posted anywhere is eligible, as is erotic poetry. No harm in trying, eh? You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take, after all.

And, September first launches the 2009 EPPIE submission period. The updated FAQs were posted yesterday. Unlike the Dream Realm Awards and the Rauxa Prize entries, EPIC maintains a page that lists everyone who’s entered in each category – so you’ll know your competition. I’ll be entering the two Coming Together volumes that are published through eXcessica, in addition to some other work.

The EPPIES are not free to enter, but I consider the fees as promo money well spent. Even reaching the finals is an accomplishment in these awards, for the competition often includes some big names and NYC-published authors. They are also peer-judged, and the winners are announced at EPICon in March during an Oscar-like awards ceremony. Very fun!

I hope to see you there – and I hope I’ll be bringing home at least one beautiful glass trophy.

peace & passion,

~ Alessia Brio

www.alessiabrio.com