RI Author Wins Grand Prize in Writer’s Digest Contest

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

Writer’s Digest announced the winners of the 7th Annual Self-Published E-Book Awards In the May issue of their nationwide publication -- and Rhode Island's Rachel Menard to took top honors.

The contest features the best self-published e-books in eight popular categories with one book taking first prize in each category and a single book claiming the grand prize overall. 

For 2019, out of all the entries, Menard’s young adult fantasy book, STEEL HAND, COLD HEART was awarded the Grand Prize.

“I was completely shocked,” said Scituate resident Menard. “You enter these contests never expecting to hear back. It’s always a shot in the dark. For my weird, little YA Viking book to win the grand prize…I still can’t believe it.”

As part of her contest winnings, Menard will receive $5000 in cash, a paid trip to the Writer’s Digest conference in New York, and a feature in the May/June issue of the magazine. 

“I decided to self-publish STEEL HAND, COLD HEART because I believe it deserved a place in the marketplace,” says Menard. “My heroine, Carina, is not someone you would want to hang out with. She’s kind of scary, but I love exploring the workings behind imperfect characters. I thought putting the book out there, I would find a small niche of readers who liked her as much as I do. I am thrilled that she has exceeded my expectations.”

About Book

STEEL HAND, COLD HEART follows the journey of Carina, a young girl who is kidnapped from her island of women Vikings and has to decide if she wants to go home or embark on a new life. She’s also in possession of a magic rune stone that can raise the dead, and on her self-discovery adventure, she has to protect the stone from pirates, a wicked priest, and a gang of thieves. 

Since the publication of STEEL HAND, COLD HEART, Menard signed with senior literary agent Valerie Noble at the Donaghy Literary Agency for her next YA fantasy book, a gender-swapped Hercules re-telling. 

The ebook is available for purchase at Amazon. Physical/paper copies may also be purchased at Amazon or at Stillwater Books in Pawtucket, RI. 

To learn more about the author and her works, please visit: www.rachelmenard.com.
Source: GOLOCALPROV.COM