Wonderbolt Contest Results and Closing Thoughts · 7:04pm Feb 10th, 2018
With the contest having concluded, it's time to share the results:
Before I get into the winners, I would first like to thank everyone who entered the contest. You all performed admirably, and while some stories caught my interest more than others, I am proud of how many stepped up to the plate and tried their best to write an entertaining story with the designated characters. In fact, I probably would have posted a Diamond Tiara/Silver Spoon contest if my time on FiMFiction was not coming to a close, but I made a promise to wind things down once the results came out, and that's still the plan.
Anyway, there are a few honorable mentions I would like to share. While they may not rank in the top three, it would be foolish not to mention these stories in one form or another. For this contest, there are two honorable mentions, and they're worth a look if their respective genres are to your liking.
Honorable Mentions
Wowee Zowee (Mature) by No Raisin
The only erotic work in the contest, this story was definitely well-written and captured the necessary emotions and responses that make sex scenes work. Its premise of Spitfire doing anything in the name of love results in some humorous interactions between her and Soarin, and its written in such a way as to make their characters enjoyable throughout the story. The awkwardness makes for excellent comedy. Definitely worth a read if you're a fan of erotic fiction.
Breaking (Down The) News by River Road
A story entered in two contests at the same time is definitely bold, especially when the other contest had what seemed like more than two dozen entries on the last day, but that doesn't change the fact this story was an enjoyable read. There's something humorous in the premise, namely the tabloids and Wonderbolts' shaky relationship with the former, and there's a little meta humor nestled within the premise given the fandom's usual reaction to the Wonderbolts. While I would've liked a little more focus on a team member or two, it still fits the contest's prompt, and it's definitely an entertaining story you should check out.
Without further ado, here are the prize winners!
Third Place
Taken by Surprise by SaddlesoapOpera
I don't think I've ever seen a story that pairs Soarin with Surprise, but despite the unusual premise, the two characters have excellent chemistry that make the romance work and the ending cathartic. The story does an excellent job at keeping the Wonderbolts as a whole likable while painting one original character related to the organization as the perfect antagonist. It makes you feel happy for the two lead characters when they're able to strengthen their relationship, even if their futures are murky at the moment.
Second Place
For those who've read the author's other works, it becomes apparent that he knows a lot about making cute romances work, and such a talent is on display for this story in how it strengthens Spitfire's relationship with Twilight Sparkle, able to stand on its own despite coming from another story that's worth reading. The chemistry between the two lead characters makes for a heartwarming romance, and their reunion makes for a story that'll put a smile on your face. Pairing Twilight Sparkle with Spitfire may be uncommon, but this story makes a strong case for the ship.
First Place
With Your Shield Or On It by PatchworkPoltergeist
When this story appeared on my slate, it became apparent that it'd be tough to beat. This story provides the best interpretations of what the Wonderbolts stand for in both the setting and the narrative. They are not superheroes like the Elements of Harmony, and they are not always successful in their missions. However, they are undeniably brave, putting their lives on the line to help other ponies. What makes this story especially memorable is how the tension ramps up, and when you piece together everything going on with the other characters, it comes off as quite the reveal. I will not spoil the specifics, but like the other stories mentioned above, it's definitely worth a read.
Congratulations to all the winners, and thanks to everyone who had participated in the contest. I will distribute the prizes as soon as possible.
Lastly, since my plans for the future have not changed much between my last blog post and this one, I would like to remind everyone that I will be keeping this account open but inactive. Messages for the prizes should come out within a few hours. Best wishes, everyone.
Even if I couldn't finish my fic in time, I'll still write it. Best wishes for you too, Mana.
Congrats to all the winners!
I figured it was gonna be With Your Shield Or On It, considering it captures the essence of what it means to be a Wonderbolt better than any other contestant IMHO. Still, it was fun to have taken part in this contest, and an honorable mention ain't half bad.
Godspeed, Manaphy.
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Good luck.
Hurrah!
Wonderful to see the results! Congrats to all and great job all around.
Thanks for running this contest, and best of luck in your future endeavors!
Best wishes to you. Be well.