To celebrate my debut novel, THE HIGHLANDER'S SWORD I am sponsoring a first line contest for historical romance writers – and the grand prize is a three chapter critique from my agent, the utterly brilliant Barbara Poelle of the Irene Goodman Literary Agency!  She really helped me improve my writing, and without even making me feel like a complete dork – now that's talent.  She also knows what sells!

Writing the first line of the book is a challenge for me.  I anguished over that first paragraph and especially the first line.   It has to set the right tone.  It has to draw the reader in.  That's a lot of pressure for one poor little sentence!  Here's the first line from THE HIGHLANDER'S SWORD:

                "If they caught him, he would hang."

I'm totally impressed with those who can write great first lines – so here is your chance to shine!  Entering is easy peasy.  Just comment on this blog with the following:

Your Name
Title of your historical manuscript
First Line of your historical manuscript
Era you are writing in (Medieval, Regency, etc.)

Entries must be received by 3-20-10.  I'll choose the top three entries and Barbara will choose the winner.  The top three will receive a signed copy of THE HIGHLANDER'S SWORD and the winner will receive a three chapter critique of their manuscript from Barbara Poelle!  Woo hoo! 

So… what's your line?

Good luck!!!