The last thing we all need is another drama in the fandom.
It is usually a good idea to ignore flamers and abusive comments. However when it becomes a personal vendetta against individuals with threats to ruin their reputations in the fandom, then a line has been crossed.
Accordingly 2 stories have been removed from the Contest.
In the Dark by Shirley007 and Devotion by ele05g
They took umbrage at not being included in the shortlisted Open Vote despite the possibility being clearly stated in the Contest Rules.
We have since received demands from them and their friends that we include their stories in the Open Vote. We have been accused of unfairness, favoritism, changing the rules after the contest has begun - amongst other things. It appears that only one of these dissatisfied fans has even bothered to review the fic they are so supportive of.
On Twitter proclamations of hate have been made as well as a concerted campaign to both get us to change our mind and to incite a boycott of the voting. Threats have been made that should any of the judges take part in a contest again their names will be blackened.
We do not wish to escalate this further, having taken this action we would like to see the matter end now.
If you would like to show your support it is best done by voting in the Contest (just click on the author profile to be taken straight to the vote) and encouraging your friends to vote also.
And smile.