2023 Annual Contest Judges


Susan K. Marlow

Susan is the author of the Circle C and Goldtown series of historical adventure books. She is also the sponsor of the Circle C annual story-writing contest. While she reads every submission, she puts the entries into the hands of the judges for choosing. She is available for tie-breaking and consultations.


Donna Alice Patton

Donna is a freelance writer living in the rural Midwest. She loves to write, especially mysteries, and her favorite subject is history and making the past come alive. When she isn’t writing or reading (or judging Circle C contests), Donna can be found gardening or sewing. Learn more on her website, DonnaAlicePatton.com


Colleen L. Reece

Colleen learned to read by kerosene lamplight in a home without electricity. She dreamed of someday writing a book, but her little western Washington town grew trees, not authors. God has expanded Colleen’s “someday” book into 180+ family-oriented “Books You can Trust to Inspire and Entertain.” See more at Colleen’s website. ColleenReece.com


Annette Romano

Annette has been a devoted reader since childhood. As an actress, director, and teacher, she appreciates the power of good language. Annette’s love of horses and reading makes her the perfect narrator (and judge) for the Circle C stories. Learn more at her website SojournAudioNarration.com


Ellen Senechal

Ellen loves Jesus, her awesome family of eleven, and her job as an online writing tutor with Regent University. A two-time winner of the annual contest, she is well acquainted with the Goldtown and “Andi” characters. Learn more about Ellen at MusingsbyEllen.blogspot.com


Emily Sinclair

Emily has always loved writing, horses and history. In 2013, at age 17, she won the Circle C writing contest. Nine years later, Emily is married to her best friend, Lucas, and works her dream job as a veterinary assistant, writing stories after work. Catch her building her blog at The Musings of Emily Sinclair


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