Announcing the Winners of SOOP’s Annual Short Story Contest 2023

Happy Authors’ Day to All the Writers!

On this special occasion of Authors’ Day, we extend our warmest wishes to all the talented writers who make our publishing community at SOOP vibrant and inspiring. Your dedication to storytelling is what fuels our passion, and it’s your creativity that keeps our literary world alive. From the ink-stained pages of classics to the digital narratives of the modern age, we salute each and every one of you for your contributions to the world of literature.

Why SOOP’s Model Stands Out

At SOOP, we’ve always believed that great stories deserve a platform that not only recognizes your talent but also helps you thrive as an author. What sets our publishing model apart from the rest is our commitment to fostering a genuine connection between writers and readers. Our crowdsourcing approach empowers authors by allowing them to grow their fan base and build meaningful connections with readers who are as passionate about their stories as they are. We offer premium marketing and editorial services, tailored to each author’s unique needs, ensuring that your voice is heard and your story is told in the best way possible. It’s not just about publishing; it’s about empowering you to reach your full potential as a writer and author.

Congratulations to All Writers!

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the writers who participated in this year’s annual short story contest. Your dedication, creativity, and passion for storytelling have shone through, making this year’s competition an extraordinary one. It was a tough decision, but today, we are thrilled to announce the winners of the contest.

To the winners, your incredible work has earned you a well-deserved place in the spotlight. Your stories have captivated our hearts and minds, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for you as published authors. For those who didn’t win this year, remember that writing is a journey, and every story you craft is a stepping stone toward your literary goals.

We invite you to participate in next year’s contest, which is open now for submissions. Remember our slogan, “From Writer to Author at SOOP,” because we believe that every writer has the potential to become a successful author with the proper support and encouragement. Your story is important, and we are here to help you share it with the world!

Grand Prize Winners

Category Winners

Deer Hunter by James White 1st Prize

	Cranky Pants by Paige Lohr 1st Prize
	What the SheLLL! by David Alan Binder 2nd Prize

	Famiglia by James Calandrillo  1st Prize
	The Stranger by Vanessa N. Perez 2nd Prize
	A Boy-ish Obsession by Kavya Janani  3rd Prize

	Stoned Spirit by T. D. Ricketts 1st Prize
	The Necromancer’s Triumph by Drew Goodman 2nd Prize
	A chip in the mask by Cody Kennebeck 3rd Prize

	Cursed by David Nance 1st Prize
	The Spook House by David Lutes 2nd Prize

	Day Three by Ryan T. Dailey 1st Prize
	Follow Me by Harold Hoss 2nd Prize
	Welfare Check by J. L. Warren 3rd Prize

	Why Is It Called A Ghost Pepper? by Huisha Bush  1st Prize
	Confessions of a non-Best Selling Author by Thomas McKenna 2nd Prize

Shifting Gears by Rika Edens 1st Prize

	A Lesson in Love by Sharon Grata 1st Prize
	The Gift by Phil Canalin  2nd Prize
	VOICE IN MY HEAD by Mercy Karanja 3rd Prize

	Fred, I Have to Go Now by David Lutes 1st Prize
	An Encounter with God by Terrace White 2nd Prize
	Delay is not Denial by Ruby Smith 3rd Prize

	Spaceman Dan and The Jellies by Zig Rose 1st Prize
	Where is Bob? by T. Scott Sparks 2nd Prize
	Two Texans by Sarah E. Ellis 3rd Prize

	Band Aids by Rebekah L. Pierce 1st Prize
	The Third Sunday by Tobin Frost 2nd Prize

Curator’s Choice Awards Winners

	Deer Hunter by James White Adventure
	Famiglia by James Calandrillo  Families & Relationships
	A chip in the mask by Cody Kennebeck  Fantasy
	The Spook House by David Lutes Historical Fiction
	Follow Me by Harold Hoss Horror
	Right Place, Right Time, A Dog Named Bjorn by Vicki Schneider Humor & Entertainment
	Shifting Gears by Rika Edens Memoir & Autobiography
	A Lesson in Love by Sharon Grata Motivational & Inspirational
	Fred, I Have to Go Now by David Lutes Religion & Spirituality
	Spaceman Dan and The Jellies by Zig Rose Science Fiction
	The Faceless Boy by Daniel Ojinaga  Self-Help & Personal Development

Thank you to all the writers, readers, and supporters who make SOOP the vibrant literary community it is. We look forward to continuing this incredible journey with you and celebrating many more stories in the years to come!