This latest writing contest concluded a few nights ago. I received 15 awesome entries and have spent the past few days reading through them all and deliberating. Writers were asked to produce original short stories using the following painting by Hive account@tanglebranch as a writing prompt.

Before I announce the winners, I would like to say how overjoyed I was when I realized most of my top picks had been workshopped at The Writers' Block. Although I did not take note of the usernames when I read the stories, it reflects the real benefit of our critiquing and editing process at The Writers' Block, and I am extremely proud of our community.

Without further ado, my top pick was The Cabin Boy from Hive account@thinknzombie. His writing always excites me, but the twist at the end of this story was totally unexpected and a joy to read. Congratulations Hive account@thinknzombie! You win 20 SBD, plus 5.579 SBD from the contest announcement post, making 25.579 SBD.

My first runner up is Moonbeach from Hive account@sroka87. The story revolves around a VR simulation and the dangers of the technology. A very enjoyable read and a great interpretation of the prompt. Hive account@sroka87 wins 5 SBD.

Next up is Fire and Ice by Hive account@negativer. His story involves a mermaid and a satyr, blindly messing with powers beyond their control out of love for each other. Hive account@negativer wins 5 SBD.

My final selection is Nothing but Canvas by Hive account@jonknight. I enjoyed the poignant look at an old man transported into the painting. Is it a memory or a dream? Whichever, the old man finds contentment. Hive account@jonknight also wins 5 SBD.

Thank you to everyone who submitted an entry into this contest. Every time I run one of these I am blown away by the incredible talent on show at Steemit and it gets harder each time to select the winners. As a reminder, I am running the art portion of this contest currently, looking for a piece of art for the next writing contest. See here.