Judge's Commentary from 13th Annual International Self Published Awards.

On a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being 'poor' and 5 being 'excellent', please evaluate the following:

Plot: 4
Grammar: 5
Character development: 4
Cover design: 3

Judge's Commentary:

What did you like best about this book?

The prelude is excellent and offers the reader a nice introduction to the story without being intrusive. The dialogue comes across natural to each character, ringing true to their age and personality. Conversations are quick-paced, without any unnecessary banter. There are just enough tags to keep the reader focused on who's speaking, without losing track of who's saying what. The author's voice rings true throughout the book, without overtaking the story. Pacing, for the most part, is good, quickening and slowing at just the right times. Ms. Vance's command of language is excellent. Sentence structure is correct with fragments being used purposefully and for effect. The conflict in The Third Son builds to a strong climax, then the reader is offered a satisfying ending, which is sure to make any reader eager to read Ms. Vance's next book.

How can the author improve this book?

Although the cover is pretty, the cool-toned, pastel colors make the book seem distant. My suggestion is to have more vibrant, contrasting colors, which would match the tone of the story. Although the writing is mostly excellent, there were a few places that seem awkward. I had to read some of these passages more than once to understand what the author was trying to say. Simple rewording would solve this problem.

Unfortunately this wonderful commentary was not enough to garner an award for The Third Son. We anxiously await our next opportunity.