Writing challenges are so much more than just contests. They are such a great way to kickstart or deepen your love of writing. Read on to read the real ways that writing challenges help new writers gain confidence, solidify their practice, and become more dedicated to their writing.

Just about a year ago, we ran our very first Romantasy Short Story challenge. The writers had 7 days to write a short story of 2,000 words of less using specific prompts that we gave them at the time of the challenge start. Read on to see what the winners of the challenge did really well, and how to incorporate these lessons into your own short story!