IGO Frequently Asked Questions
IGO FAQ
We have gathered together some of the most frequently asked questions about Indiana’s Golden Opportunity Contest for your convenience. If you have other questions, contact the Contest Chair at contest@indianarwa.com or the category coordinators (e-mail addresses are listed at the bottom of the Contest Rules page).
Q: Do you have to be a member of RWA to enter the contest?
A: No, you do not have to be a member of RWA to enter.
Q: Are there any age or gender restrictions to entering the contest?
A: The contest is open to both males and females of all ages.
Q: Is it true that YA can be in any genre? Does it have to have any romantic elements to it?
A: Yes, YA can be in any genre, and no, there does not have to be a romantic element to the story.
Q: Can you explain the difference among the different categories?
A: Here’s a quick summary of the categories:
- Mainstream—Enter this category if the main focus of the story and characters is something other than the romantic thread. There should be some romantic elements, but the romance plays a lesser role in the plot. This category is sometimes referred to as Women’s Fiction.
- Romantic Suspense—Enter this category if the main focus of the plot, story and characters is the suspense element, with the romance being a strong secondary theme.
- Single Title—Enter this category if it’s a contemporary romance with the main focus of the story, plot and characters on the romantic elements.
- Historical Romance—Enter this category if your story takes place prior to 1945 and focuses primarily on a romantic relationship.
- Paranormal—Enter this category if you story takes place in the future or a fantasy world, and/or features paranormal happenings or characters.
- Young Adult (YA)—Enter this category if your story is geared toward young adult readers.
- Erotic Romance–Enter this category if sex scenes are graphic, with no euphemisms and little left to the imagination.
Q: Is there any minimum word count required?
A: Yes, your story, when completed, should be 40,000 words or more.
Q: Does my novel have to be complete for me to enter the contest?
A: No, it does not have to be complete. However, it is always a good idea to submit a completed or near-completed manuscript in case an editor or agent requests the full manuscript.
