It's always hard to predict, even for us Boost nominators, if a story will be boosted. But it all starts with something very basic: good solid writing. Good solid writing won't guarantee you a boost, but writing that isn't good won't have much of a shot.

Brandon, you have grown tremendously as a writer since you submitted your first stories to Prism & Pen. Your writing is strong, clear, and compelling in ways that it wasn't always before.

I'm certain some of that stems from the hard work you're putting in, because we all get better with practice. I'd like to think at least a little bit owes to our editorial process at P&P, as we work to emphasize clear, strong writing.

You have taken on board every tip and suggestion that editors have given you, and then you've built onto that as you hone your craft.

Bravo! By the way, have you ever considered taking a creative writing class? I'm not saying that to suggest that you need it, I just think you would enjoy it, perhaps like I did back when I was studying writing formally.

Maybe check out a local community college? It could be a lot of fun and even hook you up with a writer's group or something.