When CSFG Publishing puts out a submission call to authors across Australia and NZ, it's with a view to showcasing the fantastic work of established and emerging writers in this region of the world. This was most certainly the case with A Hand of Knaves, edited by yours truly and Leife Shallcross in 2017-18.The "blind" submission process helps a lot, as there can be no subconscious (or even conscious) favouritism involved during the story-selection phase. The most exciting part of the process for me, was getting to show-off some new (and even first-time) authors to readers of short fiction in this country.
But now some of the more established contributors are getting their opportunity to shine. The recent announcement of the 2018 Aurealis Award finalists includes three stories from A Hand of Knaves:
For Best Fantasy Short Story
"A Moment's Peace" by David Versace
For Best Science Fiction Short Story
"A Fair Wind off Baracoa" by Rob Porteous
"On the Consequences of Clinically-Inhibited Maturation in the Common Sydney Octopus" by Simon Petrie and Edwina Harvey
I'm not sure whether these authors would like to be called veterans, but they are masters of their craft nonetheless. I'm so glad they decided to submit their work to our submission call, that Leife and I had the opportunity to read, select, and publish these stories. But on a personal note, I love that I had the opportunity to work with these amazing guys (and all of the AHOK contributors) throughout the process. My biggest fear when putting my hand up for the gig was that I wouldn't do justice to the material, but I think we managed to pull together something pretty special in the end.
I don't think it's any surprise that the above stories needed very little work however, and were mostly published as submitted.
Congratulations to the authors and a big thank you to the CSFG for publishing anthologies like A Hand of Knaves and creating these opportunities for success. CSFG Publishing doesn't chase awards, but when nominations come along it gives us all a boost.
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