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I came across this contest last year, but didn't enter.I have one question that may sound trivial with the great prizes available. With the stories being posted on the forum for us to vote on, will this make the story considered published for those who wish to send them elsewhere once the contest is over. You know, the one's that don't get picked for publication with Shock Totem.Also, as an aspiring author, I'm always wonder what is necessary for your stoy to have a horror element. I've submitted to Shock Totem in the past, but have been rejected. Not sure, the stories may have not been scary enough. I'd enjoy hearing some thoughts on that matter.
We are a tough market, but that's only because we don't have one person picking all the stories. We have a team of five, and in order for any story to make it onto our pages three of those five have to vote to accept it. That may seem unduly harsh, but it ensures that all editors and (slush) readers have an equal say. Since no one gets paid to do this--and in fact we pay into it--there has to be incentive to continue doing so. That incentive is having a voice and a vote that matters. So don't ever think your story isn't scary enough. Dark is perfectly fine with us. But yeah, we're a tough market. Sorry. =(