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coffeebeanshop for coffee lovers & coffee writers

Love & Coffee Winners!

WINNERS: Dial ‘C’ for Coffee| Eligibility | Good Morning

Bonus: The Bean Counter by Linda Courtland - Our judge, Dr. Rozakis stated, “I like the handicap theme; not done often. It was done here with sensitivity.” For her excellent writing and insight into love and coffee, Linda wins a “Coffee Lover’s” pin from Coffee Bean Shop.

The choices for our first short story contest were difficult. The entries were chosen for an unusual slant, appropriate titles, excellent endings, creativity and originality, an international “flavor” and/or just plain ol’ outstanding writing. You’ll find humor, surrealism, real voices, and love in unexpected places and at equally unexpected times in our selections. All the finalist stories are listed below. You’ll also find five Honorable Mentions below - thirty great stories in all.

The final winners were chosen by Laurie Rozakis, Ph.D. (more about our judge at the end of this page). She wrote, “You should be very proud of yourself because you attracted a fabulous group of stories. The decision was difficult because many of these people can REALLY write.”

$300 First Place: Paul Alan Fahey - Dial ‘C’ for Coffee

Dial “C” for Coffee was chosen for the first round for the following reasons: Intriguing title, interesting opening lead with plenty of fast-paced dialogue. There is an interesting twist to the story, with a believable premise and with just a touch of comedy. Great ending, excellent writing, correct punctuation, no spelling errors. We were caught up with this story from the time it arrived in the email box. Excellent creative approach to the theme.

$200 Second Place: Lance Hendrickson - Eligibility

Eligibility was chosen for the first round for the following reasons: First, the title pulled us in. After reading the story, we realized the significance of “Eligibility.” We didn’t realize that Lance was an attorney, so we were impressed with the Latin, as well as with the attention to detail. This serves him well throughout this read, as two tools of coffee serve as metaphors for two marriages. Correct punctuation, no spelling errors, authentic voice. “Eligibility” made the cut with all the above, plus humor and an individual voice. Great ending, and a handsome read. Dr. Rozakis stated, “…the symbolism of the thermos set this a notch above the pack.”

$100 Third Place: David Abrams - Good Morning

Good Morning was chosen for the first round for the following reasons: Although the title didn’t grab us at first, the opening dialogue caught our eye and held it immediately. It was the only story with disjointed dialogue, and - although that’s not a reason to be chosen - it was a fine quality about this piece, fitting and natural. It also read very smoothly, just like a good cuppa Joe. What singled this one out? Although there wasn’t much of a twist on the theme, this story held excellent writing. The similes, metaphors and descriptive phrases were brewed to perfection. Dr. Rozakis said,”…the writer knows his way around; very skilled.”

The following stories were announced as finalists, and they are listed in alphabetical order by title. At the end of each short story, you’ll find links that will either bring you back to this page or that will lead you to the next story in this list:

The following stories were granted Honorable Mentions. They’re listed in alphabetical order by title, and links at the end of each story will either bring you back here or lead you to the next story on the list:

About our Judge

CoffeeBeanShop was pleased to obtain Laurie Rozakis, Ph.D. as the final judge for our first writing contest, “Love and Coffee.” When Laurie sent us her resume, we were overwhelmed at her accomplishments…We knew she was good, but…wow. Be sure to read her article here at CoffeeBeanShop entitled, “What is Creative Writing?“

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