150 Award Genres
Children
- Children - Action
- Children - Adventure
- Children - Animals
- Children - Audiobook
- Children - Christian
- Children - Coming of Age
- Children - Concept
- Children - Educational
- Children - Fable
- Children - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
- Children - General
- Children - Grade 4th-6th
- Children - Grade K-3rd
- Children - Mystery
- Children - Mythology/Fairy Tale
- Children - Non-Fiction
- Children - Picture Book
- Children - Preschool
- Children - Preteen
- Children - Religious Theme
- Children - Social Issues
Christian
- Christian - Amish
- Christian - Biblical Counseling
- Christian - Devotion/Study
- Christian - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
- Christian - Fiction
- Christian - General
- Christian - Historical Fiction
- Christian - Living
- Christian - Non-Fiction
- Christian - Romance - Contemporary
- Christian - Romance - General
- Christian - Romance - Historical
- Christian - Thriller
Fiction
- Fiction - Action
- Fiction - Adventure
- Fiction - Animals
- Fiction - Anthology
- Fiction - Audiobook
- Fiction - Chick Lit
- Fiction - Crime
- Fiction - Cultural
- Fiction - Drama
- Fiction - Dystopia
- Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
- Fiction - Fantasy - General
- Fiction - Fantasy - Urban
- Fiction - General
- Fiction - Graphic Novel/Comic
- Fiction - Historical - Event/Era
- Fiction - Historical - Personage
- Fiction - Holiday
- Fiction - Horror
- Fiction - Humor/Comedy
- Fiction - Inspirational
- Fiction - Intrigue
- Fiction - LGBTQ
- Fiction - Literary
- Fiction - Magic/Wizardry
- Fiction - Military
- Fiction - Mystery - General
- Fiction - Mystery - Historical
- Fiction - Mystery - Legal
- Fiction - Mystery - Murder
- Fiction - Mystery - Sleuth
- Fiction - Mythology
- Fiction - New Adult
- Fiction - Paranormal
- Fiction - Realistic
- Fiction - Religious Theme
- Fiction - Science Fiction
- Fiction - Short Story/Novela
- Fiction - Social Issues
- Fiction - Southern
- Fiction - Sports
- Fiction - Supernatural
- Fiction - Suspense
- Fiction - Tall Tale
- Fiction - Thriller - Conspiracy
- Fiction - Thriller - Environmental
- Fiction - Thriller - Espionage
- Fiction - Thriller - General
- Fiction - Thriller - Legal
- Fiction - Thriller - Medical
- Fiction - Thriller - Political
- Fiction - Thriller - Psychological
- Fiction - Thriller - Terrorist
- Fiction - Time Travel
- Fiction - Urban
- Fiction - Visionary
- Fiction - Western
- Fiction - Womens
Non-Fiction
- Non-Fiction - Adventure
- Non-Fiction - Animals
- Non-Fiction - Anthology
- Non-Fiction - Art/Photography
- Non-Fiction - Audiobook
- Non-Fiction - Autobiography
- Non-Fiction - Biography
- Non-Fiction - Business/Finance
- Non-Fiction - Cooking/Food
- Non-Fiction - Cultural
- Non-Fiction - Drama
- Non-Fiction - Education
- Non-Fiction - Environment
- Non-Fiction - Genealogy
- Non-Fiction - General
- Non-Fiction - Gov/Politics
- Non-Fiction - Grief/Hardship
- Non-Fiction - Health - Fitness
- Non-Fiction - Health - Medical
- Non-Fiction - Historical
- Non-Fiction - Hobby
- Non-Fiction - Home/Crafts
- Non-Fiction - Humor/Comedy
- Non-Fiction - Inspirational
- Non-Fiction - LGBTQ
- Non-Fiction - Marketing
- Non-Fiction - Memoir
- Non-Fiction - Military
- Non-Fiction - Motivational
- Non-Fiction - Music/Entertainment
- Non-Fiction - New Age
- Non-Fiction - Occupational
- Non-Fiction - Parenting
- Non-Fiction - Relationships
- Non-Fiction - Religion/Philosophy
- Non-Fiction - Retirement
- Non-Fiction - Self Help
- Non-Fiction - Short Story/Novela
- Non-Fiction - Social Issues
- Non-Fiction - Spiritual/Supernatural
- Non-Fiction - Sports
- Non-Fiction - Travel
- Non-Fiction - True Crime
- Non-Fiction - Womens
- Non-Fiction - Writing/Publishing
Poetry
Romance
Young Adult
- Young Adult - Action
- Young Adult - Adventure
- Young Adult - Coming of Age
- Young Adult - Fantasy - Epic
- Young Adult - Fantasy - General
- Young Adult - Fantasy - Urban
- Young Adult - General
- Young Adult - Horror
- Young Adult - Mystery
- Young Adult - Mythology/Fairy Tale
- Young Adult - Non-Fiction
- Young Adult - Paranormal
- Young Adult - Religious Theme
- Young Adult - Romance
- Young Adult - Sci-Fi
- Young Adult - Social Issues
- Young Adult - Thriller
Illustration Award
Recommend this book:
Rosemary's Beach House
Linda Heavner Gerald

2019 Honorable Mention
401 Pages
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Christian - Romance - Contemporary

How much pain can one woman’s heart endure? In Rosemary's Beach House by Linda Heavner Gerald, Rosemary Lewis divorces her cheating husband and suffers through depression. To cope, she becomes a workaholic, focusing on her career as a Registered Nurse. When she meets Malcolm Beach, it is like a dream come true, because he has everything any woman could want in a man. She is adored by her new husband, a man with whom she shares almost everything, including sailing, which delights her. But then Malcolm suddenly dies, a tragedy that hits her to the very core. But this isn’t the worst of her troubles for a terrible enemy is poised against her. Does she have what it takes to protect herself? Is there enough fight in her to survive an enemy as vicious as what is heading towards her?
Rosemary's Beach House is a story of the heart, a narrative that looks deeply at the human heart. The protagonist is a well-developed character, a woman who has experienced heartbreak and loss, and the reader is keen to find out how she rebuilds herself after every heartache. As I read this novel, I couldn’t help but wonder if human life is designed to be characterized by pain with just occasional moments of happiness. The statement that “happiness was an occasional episode in the general drama of pain” can be said of this protagonist. The story is told in a compelling narrative voice and the internal conflict is deftly handled and used to add depth to the character development. This is a very engaging and interesting read, filled with humanity and realism.
Recommend this book:
Season's Shadows
Wendy Black Farley

2019 Honorable Mention
290 Pages
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Christian - Romance - Contemporary

Wendy Black Farley resumes the life of Cori Sellers from Season’s Stranger to Season’s Shadows. Life is a whirlwind for Cori when she returns to Laurel Ledge after a visit to her brother and sister-in-law in Arizona. The “stranger”, Michael Flores, continues to see Cori, and she finds he is an attentive boyfriend when their schedules allow dating time. As a counselor for Amity Associates, they often call on her to travel for on-site counseling and to assess problems for the company, which is how she ended up in Xi’an, China. The travel wasn’t so bad; it was the man they expected her to work with, Stewart Montgomery. The man who was hired at one point to seduce her. Though she finds him attractive, she doesn’t trust her feelings around him, and besides, she is dating Michael. Stewart’s job is a PI, but he excels in extracting people who are caught in human trafficking. Stewart and Cori find themselves in trouble when they uncover the truth about what is hidden in a warehouse of the company they are called to assist.
Season’s Shadows is unique as Wendy Black Farley focuses on issues that secretly plague every country; slavery, human trafficking, disease, and abuse. Cori is a complicated character as she is dealing with when to let go of her brother as his medical caretaker, who are her real parents, and a boyfriend who wants to shelter her from any disappointments in life. Her job demands a quick pace and Stewart always includes some kind of action wherever he is. I found Cori lovable though she was dealing with stressful situations continually. Michael was sweet but clingy, whereas Stewart was focused and constantly looking for the next rescue. I found the book ended on a great note while looking forward to another adventure in Cori’s life. Multiple activities with a spiritual undertone make this a must-read for Christian mystery fans.
Recommend this book:
Hope Alone
Ruth Meyer

2019 Bronze Medal
272 Pages
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Christian - Romance - Contemporary

Ruth Meyer’s heart-warming Christian fiction novel, Hope Alone, chronicles Faith Williams’ journey through devastating lows that deepen her faith in God. While in high school, Faith falls pregnant. The one man she hoped to count on during and after the devastating discovery turns his back on her. When Spencer, the father of her child, refuses to take responsibility, Aaron steps in, giving Faith the support she has been craving. Things seem to be going well as the child becomes a point of hope for many in Faith and Aaron’s circle ... until Spencer shows up again. As he tries to edge closer to Faith, cracks start to form in Faith and Aaron’s relationship. Has Spencer changed like he claims and will Faith and Aaron’s relationship survive? Will Faith, with the help of her family, survive the ordeals that lie in front of her?
Hope Alone by Ruth Meyer is an amazing read. It features easily relatable characters that have been through difficult and tumultuous moments but whose faith serves as an anchor even in the worst of times. Faith’s family has been through it all - from abandonment by a spouse to dealing with teen pregnancy and a devastating accident. Their lives are far from perfect and sometimes they make mistakes. Still, their story offers a strong lesson on the liberating power of forgiveness and the unwavering presence of God even in the darkest of moments. The novel also contains themes of restoration and growth through overcoming trials by the power of God. It also speaks to Christians to shine God’s love on other people. Adeptly written, Hope Alone by Ruth Meyer is an encouraging and eye-opening read.
Recommend this book:
Life on the Porcelain Edge
C.E. Hilbert

2018 Finalist
366 Pages
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Christian - Romance - Contemporary

Life on the Porcelain Edge by C.E. Hilbert is the perfect example of great comic timing, amazing romance and superior writing skills. This is the story of a woman named Tessa Tarrington who is at her wits' end, thanks to her now having no job, no home, and her life generally spinning out of control. The only way she can salvage her life is by going back to her old high school, and she does so as a teacher. She has no idea that her life is going to take another dramatic turn when she finds out that the boy who once tormented her in high school is now the football coach.
When he lost his wife, Ryland Jessup became a football coach at his old high school to feel grounded. He spends his days training the boys and his evenings taking care of his daughter. He had no idea that his life was going to take a new turn with the arrival of his high school crush, Tessa Tarrington. He also had no idea that he still had feelings for her. She is a little reluctant to give him a chance, but soon she warms up to him. But when his best friend with irresistible charm decides to come back home, Ryland now questions everything. Will Tessa give him a chance? Or will she fall for the charm of Joey Taylor?
This was a very fun and entertaining novel to read. I love romance of all types, so when I got my hands on Life on the Porcelain Edge, I excitedly jumped at the chance to read it. The novel truly lives up to the title and then some. Tessa is hilarious and so relatable; Ryland is fun and definitely a guy that any woman would want. Together, they make a formidable team that is hard to resist. This novel had me on the edge of my seat, smiling, biting my nails and rooting for these two. This novel is simply so entertaining and enjoyable.
Recommend this book:
False Impressions
Michelli Family Ties Book 1
Sherry Crandell

2018 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Christian - Romance - Contemporary

With an exciting setting in contemporary Texas, False Impressions by Sherry Crandell is a delectable first entry into the Michelli Family Ties series, a tale of love, attraction, and family dynamics in an unusual context. When Tabitha Jennings - “TJ” - accepts a job far from home, she secretly tells herself she’ll be making a new start in life after a painful breakup. But then she quickly finds out that she’s actually been hired by a mob family. It’s too late to turn down the job, and the dynamics of this family are nothing like anything she’s known. Follow her adventure as she learns to meld with the family, but things get complicated when she begins to feel an irresistible attraction for Dominic, the grandson of the Michelli patriarch. Does she have the strength to stay away from him? And what has Jesus got to do with it? It will be interesting for the reader to find out.
False Impressions is beautifully written and the title is brilliantly justified, a story that is as inspiring as it is entertaining. I enjoyed the way the Michelli family is constructed, where the reader won’t expect to find openness of spirit. But, surprisingly, there is an intimacy shared among the members of this family that will surprise readers. The narrator says somewhere that there weren’t any secrets in this family and that everyone spoke openly and freely, an atmosphere that is nurtured by the fact that they have suffered a lot together. The author explores themes of family, love and lust, temptation and faith, allowing her message to simmer in the beautiful prose in a natural way. Sherry Crandell is a great storyteller and she knows what it takes to build strong conflict with human emotions. A very delightful read, indeed!
Recommend this book:
Escape from Behruz
Judy Meadows

2018 Silver Medal
208 Pages
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Christian - Romance - Contemporary

Escape from Behruz by Judy Meadows is a quick read, a contemporary romance with a unique setting in the Middle East. This is a love story set in difficult times and challenging social and political climates. Olivia and her child, Jamal, are in great danger and Rashid is there to help them escape the violence in Behruz. Follow the trio as they undertake a difficult trek across the mountains. Two souls who once felt connected to each other; now that they are so close, can that attraction be rekindled and can friendship grow into intimacy? Can Olivia conquer her fears and tell Rashid the truth about Jamal, and does Rashid have the courage to risk his heart again?
This is a sweet romance, a story more of the heart than one that is action-driven. The title may make one feel as though they’d be reading about an escape journey with an elaborate and sophisticated plot, but what they will encounter is two ordinary and well-developed characters with strong backgrounds. Navigating the labyrinths and the landscapes of their hearts is interesting. I enjoyed the fact that the love between Rashid and Olivia grows with time and readers can understand how they nurture it. The writing is real and it takes place in a beautiful setting, capturing great images from the landscape and powerful social and political moments.
I enjoyed the portrait of the nomadic life. The writing might not be stellar, but it is engaging, infused with insightful moments and images that are cinematic. Escape from Behruz by Judy Meadows transports the reader into the inner workings of the hearts of the characters, allowing the reader to feel their fears and anxieties, their hopes and secret longings, a journey that culminates in a satisfying denouement. Overall, it is a great read.
Recommend this book:
The Color of Truth
The Chain of Lakes Book 3
Stacy Monson

2018 Gold Medal
291 Pages
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Christian - Romance - Contemporary

The Color of Truth (The Chain of Lakes Book 3) by Stacy Monson is a heartwarming story about Marti, a young adult who has had an extraordinarily bad life. Having a father in jail and a drunk for a mother, Marti has felt anything but loved. Her sister, Katie, who is still a minor and has been placed in foster care, is developmentally challenged and Marti carries that burden on her shoulders as well. Unknowingly, Marti allowed a very bad man (a drug dealer) to come into her life. A decision that will put her and her sister in danger. And then there’s Sam, who has suffered much himself. After a tragic event at the youth center and his pregnant wife walking out on him, Sam struggles with his own issues of guilt and self-worth.
The Color of Truth is a truly encouraging story of God’s love and grace. Stacy Monson has created beautiful characters that speak to the heart. I couldn’t help but love and feel for Marti and Sam. I enjoyed the way God worked in Marti’s life to give her the self-confidence she needed to realize just how capable she was. I felt a strong connection to Marti. Her lack of self-worth and feelings of inadequacy touched me on a whole new level. This is the third book in The Chain of Lake series and, although I haven’t read the first two, I had no problem following the story. The Color of Truth is easily a stand-alone book. I look forward to reading the first two in the series. Applause to Stacy Monson for creating a beautiful story.
Recommend this book:
Destiny By Design
Michelli Family Ties
Sherry Crandell

2017 Finalist
264 Pages
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Christian - Romance - Contemporary

Destiny By Design: Michelli Family Ties by Sherry Crandell is an engaging love story where Trish Cooper meets someone who takes her back to her past, which she had closed and left a long time ago. She goes with her friend Tabitha to meet the latter's new boss and family, and Diego Michelli's startling green eyes and stubborn jaw line make Trish wonder what the man really is like behind his good looks. Trish is still hesitant to get close to Diego after her past experience, but will Diego be able to make her forget her past, and overcome her fears to draw her close to him? Will Trish be able to trust Diego?
I found the story entertaining with its well sketched characters. The main characters are real and convincing and will help readers connect with them on many levels. I liked the portrayal of Diego Michelli; rakish, roguish, attractive, and with a dangerous streak. Trish is likeable and relatable on a personal level. The scenes and descriptions are vivid and all the characters and moments come alive. Though the story has twists and turns, it will inspire and motivate readers to see how someone can change his life for the love of a woman. The author's fluid writing style makes it fast paced, and pulls readers into the Michelli family. All the twists, turns, secrets, and lies in the story keep readers glued to the book till the very last page.
Recommend this book:
No Pit So Deep
The Cody Musket Story
James Nathaniel Miller II

2017 Bronze Medal
298 Pages
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Christian - Romance - Contemporary

No Pit So Deep: The Cody Musket Story is a fast paced historical fiction novel, but with real events that inspired James N. Miller. The story begins with Cody, while on his way to an awards dinner, being pulled over by a police officer, who just happens to be the brother of the banquet's honoree, and Cody's ex-team mate. Just as Cody is signing an autograph for the officer's son, the officer is shot in a drive-by incident. Cody removes his shirt to try to stop the bleeding. When more officers arrive on the scene, they see Cody standing over his body. Quickly deciding to shoot first and ask questions later, they gun Cody down. When the news reaches his home, his wife, Brandi, is frantic and beside herself while trying to gather up their offspring on her way to the hospital.
James N. Miller hits it out of the ballpark with an awesome job of moving this story along at a breakneck pace that is loaded with action, suspense, and drama. Mr. Miller cleverly uses the media to insert the characters' all-American histories and accomplishments, as the family scrambles amidst the chaos while en route to the hospital bedside of the Musket family patriarch. No Pit So Deep has all the ingredients and then some to make this a multi-media success. Cody "Babe" Musket was a medal of honor winning U.S.M.C. Navy Seal, before becoming a major league baseball MVP infielder. Even though the battlefield had changed, our hero was still haunted for years by combat nightmares. No Pit So Deep is masterfully written with characters, and situations that are well developed, and very real. Wow! Great story!
Recommend this book:
Forever Mine
The Lake Shores Series Book 4
Aimee Martin

2017 Silver Medal
289 Pages
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Christian - Romance - Contemporary

Forever Mine by Aimee Martin tells the story of Blake Thompson and Kellina McDonald. Blake’s past has left him heartbroken, and a former abusive marriage has Kellina wanting a better life for her and her young daughter, Gracie. While Kellina trusts God to keep her and her daughter safe, Blake wants nothing to do with God. He has his reasons and he’s so closed off that Kellina decides to reach out to help him. What’s the problem? Blake doesn’t want help. He doesn’t want to change. Most importantly, he doesn’t want to open his heart to anyone. The problem is that his willpower is no match for the determined Kellina. Even when he meets her daughter, he’s immediately taken with little Gracie, who brings the headstrong cowboy to his knees. Literally. As Blake gets to know Kellina and her daughter, he discovers he does want something more. The question is, does he have the courage to do it? Also, is Kellina ready for a man like Blake? She’s suffering from a past too.
I have one word for Aimee Martin’s Forever Mine; awesome! This book needs to be turned into a movie. Seriously. It literally has everything in it from faith to suspense, and everything else in between. I could not put it down once I started reading. I loved the character development of both Kellina and Blake. We start out with them both guarded, with the author beautifully writing their journey towards each other. Blake's vulnerabilities, in my opinion, are the most heart wrenching. I could tell he truly wanted to be free from his past, and Kellina is there to help him through it. He knows he can’t do it alone, so he has to come to terms with God. Overall, both Kellina and Blake see what God is doing. They realize that He’s bringing them together, but it’s up to them to make the final choice. On the other hand, someone else in the mix doesn’t want these two together. This twist in the story had me even more on edge and wondering what was going to happen next. I truly loved this story and I think others will too. Again, awesome!
