#365 Two Sides to Every Story with Emily Martin

This week, we're running a takeover in collaboration with Reedsy freelancer Emily Martin! The winner of this contest will not only be awarded $250 — they’ll also receive personal feedback from Emily herself. For your chance to get insight from one of Reedsy’s very own professionals, read on!

Hello writers,

I’m Emily Martin, Reedsy editor and author of romantic comedies for teens and adults. My debut adult rom com, Winner Takes All (out now from S&S/Atria!), is about two rival music executives who wake up married in Las Vegas with no memory of tying the knot, and have to recreate their previous night together while competing to sign the band of their dreams.

While on tour for Winner, I got a lot of questions about writing a dual-POV story and how I used that structure to heighten the tension and stakes. I’ve also been talking with fellow writers about the popularity of the rivals-to-lovers trope (any Heated Rivalry fans here?!).

In any genre, a good rivalry can ramp up tension and add texture to your characters’ backstories. So, for this takeover, I want to read your best stories centered on rivals and rumors. Give me deep-rooted resentment and reluctant partnerships. Show me how rumors about your character have shaped the way they move through the world.

I can’t wait to read what you come up with!

Special Update: The Results 🏆

The top pick for this takeover was "Death, Wealth, and Daikon" by Figment Liu. Here's what our guest judge had to say about the winning story:

I was so impressed with the level of world-building the author achieved in this story -- the layered details really allowed me to feel like I was in the room with these characters. The tension between Rujing and Xixi was expertly crafted, as both characters faced relatable struggles. The ending was beautifully executed -- showcasing the moment when two characters who typically interact with a competitive edge find common ground and instinctively let their guards down. Well done!

Congratulations to contest winner Figment Liu and the runners-up, Celia Cullen and Derrick M Domican!