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:
High Flying
Kaylin McFarren
2020 Finalist
277 Pages
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Fiction - Crime
High Flying is a work of intriguing drama and time travel fiction penned by author Kaylin McFarren. In a story written for adults due to its explicit language and depictions of violence, we find ourselves following the trials of Skylar Haines, who can’t seem to subdue the deep-rooted anxiety from her dark past. When she learns to be a stunt pilot, the danger and adrenaline take her out of herself and her worries, until a terrifying storm changes everything. With the help of a mysterious voice, Skylar weathers the storm, but finds herself in a time just before she was born, one week before her father was murdered. What follows is a gripping tale of choices, emotions and personal strife.
Mixing science fiction concepts with both mystery and suspense, Kaylin McFarren is an author whose work will span many different genres to entertain different reader types. Skylar’s tale of personal woe and the desire to reinvent herself rings true with genuine emotional depth, which is given plenty of space to be explored when she visits her own pre-birth past. Here, the danger level spikes too, developing into a psychological mystery surrounding her father’s death and what it means to trust and be loyal to people. The writing is solid and well paced for a suspenseful feel, whilst the plot has a fair few twists to keep the pages turning. Overall though, High Flying is most likely to entertain those seeking a deeply personal drama and a strong but damaged heroine whom you can root for to the bitter end.
Recommend this book:
Flowers On Her Grave
Jennifer Chase
2020 Gold Medal
312 Pages
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Fiction - Crime
Following the tenth wedding anniversary of her aunt and uncle, Detective Katie Scott awakens to learn her aunt has been brutally murdered and her uncle, the Pine Valley Sheriff, is the only suspect. Because of her relationship with her uncle, Katie, the head of Pine Valley’s Sheriff Department’s Cold Case unit, is warned by the acting Sheriff to stay away from the murder investigation. Katie, an Afghanistan war veteran, highly talented detective, and all-round hard-headed woman, is not about to sit idly by while her uncle, the last member of her family, goes to prison for life... or worse. She figures out ways to investigate and comes up with some clues and evidence the assigned investigators missed. But the real coup comes when she digs through her cold cases.
It is rare when I read a book in only two sittings, but had I not fallen asleep on the couch at 4 a.m., I’d have finished Flowers on Her Grave in one sitting, making it one of a kind. Jennifer Chase is a writer extraordinaire. I can’t think of a single part of the writing trade that she could improve on. Her characters are as real as my next-door neighbors, her ability to show rather than tell, exceptional. Chase sets scenes with zero fat; she writes them lean but has everything necessary to give the reader a visual perspective. Throughout the story, there are little details that wouldn’t occur to most authors, but Chase gets them in there. One of these that comes to mind is her use of German language commands for her K9 German Shepard, Cisco. Flowers on Her Grave by Jennifer Chase is a fabulously written, exciting detective story that fans of any fiction genre will love. Character Katie Scott is amazing, and I am determined to go back and read books one and two in this series.
Recommend this book:
The Banker Who Died
Matthew A. Carter
2019 Finalist
452 Pages
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Fiction - Crime
The Banker Who Died is a work of thriller fiction for adults, penned by author Matthew A. Carter. Graphic, dynamic and filled with the high life and high crime, this stylish tale features bank employee Stanley McKnight as he is upgraded to a prestigious position at Laville & Cie. This exclusive Swiss bank has exclusive clients, and Stanley takes over the Russian clients after a previous employee dies in a car accident. But all is not as it seems, and Stanley finds himself in way over his head dealing with people who have become so rich that they think the law doesn’t really apply to them anymore.
An unusual premise for a thriller novel, the world of Swiss banking, shady finances and dirty dealings makes for an interesting realm in which to set a tale of an everyman who gets in too deep. Stanley is a relatable character with plenty of naïve charm, whose hidden capabilities come through the more you read his tale of being thrown into the deep end. Suspicions around the bank and its clients come to light with some really well-paced plot timing by author Matthew A. Carter, and in true thriller style, the book does keep you wondering right up to the last few pages. I found the various villains and clients at the bank entertaining to encounter, and one of them genuinely terrifying by the novel’s close. Overall, thriller fiction fans are sure to sink their teeth into The Banker Who Died.
Recommend this book:
Alex Dotson
Secrets of a Small Town
Alexis Bloomer
2019 Honorable Mention
275 Pages
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Fiction - Crime
In Alex Dotson: Secrets of a Small Town, author Alexis Bloomer weaves a compelling mystery around kidnappings occurring in the small town of South Bend, Texas. Alex Dotson has returned to her hometown -- after putting a stalker in jail and writing an article that won several awards -- to hide from the guilt that her writing has unseen consequences. When a high school teenager, Samantha, goes missing, the authorities do little to find her. The town’s optimistic view that she will just show up one day frustrates Alex. As more girls disappear, Alex’s persistence in questioning everyone has drawn unwanted attention towards her. Could the new police officer be the predator she fears? Is he trying to get close to Alex to hide the secrets about his past?
Alex Dotson is one of those novels you put down and think, “Wow, that was awesome!” Alexis Bloomer uses her gift of writing to make an impact with her stories. The author reveals how one person can make a difference in the lives of others. Alex Dotson was a journalist, but her articles were personal and it was her goal to show the truth to her audience. As this suspense thriller progresses, the intensity of the events develops into a bewildering web of crime. Though Alex comes across as a strong, independent woman, her insecurities show as she fears her ability to find the girls before the predator hunts her down. Her aggressive attitude is great as a journalist to hunt down a story, but people dislike her questioning ways. When I finished this novel, I felt that the author reveals herself through the characters; she has the beauty and compassion of Samantha and the skills and strength of Alex. I enjoyed this novel immensely and would highly recommend it to every reader.
Recommend this book:
The Unrepentant
E. A. Aymar
2019 Honorable Mention
330 Pages
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Fiction - Crime
The Unrepentant by E. A. Aymar is set in the Virginia, Maryland, D.C. triangle and follows eighteen-year-old Charlotte Reyes, a girl who runs away from an abusive home only to find herself tricked and kidnapped by a gang of criminals. When she escapes again, she realizes that the bad guys trail her like dogs and there is a dirty cop who is paid to bring her back. Wherever she goes, there is no guarantee of staying off their radar, so she does the one thing no one expects her to do: fight back!
This is an engrossing story with a strong female protagonist, one that fans of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo will love. It opens in the midst of action and immediately introduces a powerful premise. A captured girl has help in getting free. The language is beautiful and I loved how the author combines the descriptions of the actions and the thoughts of the characters with elements of the setting to give readers a full picture of scenes. This is the introduction to the character that helps the protagonist: “Mace Peterson expected to see silhouettes of trees, a surprised deer or two, the smudge of a shadowed moon, maybe even a startled snake slithering away at midnight in the woods of Baltimore County.”
The story is sprinkled with grim humor, and at times there is a pervading sense of the noir that allows an understanding of human nature, the depth of the conflict, and the development of characters. The Unrepentant is an entertaining tale of a young girl who chooses to fight crime and gain her freedom. The twists are powerful enough to be mind-blowing.
Recommend this book:
The Network
The Dream Traveler, Book Two
Ernesto H Lee
2019 Honorable Mention
256 Pages
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Fiction - Crime
In The Network: The Dream Traveler Book Two by Ernesto H Lee, Detective Constable Sean McMillan is arrested for the murder of his prime suspect in a case from the past. He has at his disposal a very odd gift that allows him to travel through time within his dreams, but this gift can only assist him so far without the trust and support of his fellow officers and colleagues. With the evidence stacked against him getting worse all the time and the knowledge that his own partner is involved somehow, the likelihood of being exonerated of the charges is all but nonexistent. While awaiting his trial, Detective Constable Sean McMillan finds himself in over his head with a prison thug’s deadly and time sensitive deadline looming nearer. Can McMillan find the information and evidence of the mobster group that calls themselves ‘The Network’ before either they or the prison thugs that want his blood can destroy all his hopes of finding the truth, along with his life?
The Network has a very exciting plot that takes the reader on a page-turning ride through time as Sean McMillan attempts to clear his name from the murder rap he faces. Every single character has their own surprising and unique past that distinguishes The Network from any other story I have ever read. I love how Ernesto H Lee made me think I knew who the mastermind was, then shocked me with the truth with a very precise and interesting explanation that took the story to a deeper level of excitement. The Network is action packed from beginning to end as the author keeps the reader asking ‘what’s coming next?’ I would recommend this book to anyone that loves action, adventure and misadventure all rolled into one. I would not be surprised to see a movie trailer for The Network in the future and I, for one, would love to see it. I loved this book and I can’t wait to see what other amazing stories Ernesto H Lee has in store for readers to get caught up in.
Recommend this book:
Little Girls Sleeping
An absolutely gripping crime thriller (Detective Katie Scott Book 1)
Jennifer Chase
2019 Bronze Medal
316 Pages
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Fiction - Crime
Little Girls Sleeping is a compelling and spine-chilling work of crime fiction penned by author Jennifer Chase. Forming the introductory story in the Detective Katie Scott series, we find ourselves in Pine Valley, California on the brink of one of the creepiest cases ever discovered. Eight-year-old Chelsea Compton has gone missing, and following her trail leads Katie to an unmarked cemetery with colorful teddy bears on every grave. The shocking truth and the history of missing children aren’t lost on Katie, who lost someone herself many years ago in the same area. Past and present collide as Katie tries desperately to stop anyone else from facing the graveyard in the future.
Shocking, chilling and highly readable, fans of creepy crime, serial killer fiction, and gritty mystery are sure to be compelled to finish this novel from cover to cover. It reminded me of the likes of Karin Slaughter and Martina Cole for its strong female heroine and no-holds-barred look at the crime scenes in epic and sometimes stomach-churning detail. The discoveries made to trace and catch the killer are well paced and genuinely surprising, whilst readers can also make a strong emotional connection to the tough but sensitive Katie Scott as we learn about the darkness and loss in her past. Author Jennifer Chase makes excellent use of California as an atmospheric backdrop to the crimes, painting chilling pictures with her words. Overall, Little Girls Sleeping is a highly recommended read for fans of crime fiction who want to be excited and afraid at the same time.
Recommend this book:
Shades of Justice
Detective Madison Knight Series Book 9
Carolyn Arnold
2019 Silver Medal
1042 Pages
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Fiction - Crime
Shades of Justice is the ninth book in the Detective Madison Knight series by Carolyn Arnold, a beautiful meld of crime thriller and detective work with a sophisticated, elaborately developed protagonist. When two murder victims are found naked in Steven Malone’s home, Detective Madison Knight knows she is in for a very complicated case. Malone is one of the biggest contributors to Stiles PD. One of the victims is his wife and the other one is a John Doe. There is a huge problem in the investigation because Madison’s sergeant wants to protect the reputation of the Malones and the relationship with Stiles PD. Madison Knight wants to catch a killer and this case is more complex than it seems.
Shades of Justice is a very complex crime novel, suspenseful and filled with surprising twists. The reader hardly knows what to expect as they follow the fearless detective on the hunt for justice and truth. The reader immediately understands, from the complex nature of the crime, that truth can have different layers and different shades. Following Madison as she carries out her investigation is interesting and a growing feeling of apprehension permeates the entire story. Carolyn Arnold uses suspense and the smoothness of the prose to seduce the reader and have their undivided attention as they sail through the gripping pages. The plot opens with a powerful premise and becomes embellished with surprising details. The unpredictability of the plot is one of the key drivers that move this story forward and make it a must-read. A very exciting read for fans of crime thrillers.
Recommend this book:
Game Piece
Alan Brenham
2019 Gold Medal
326 Pages
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Fiction - Crime
Police Detective Barry Marshall can't seem to catch a break. He's worked two major cases and become a victim of identity theft when another case falls into his lap. The problem is that this time it's personal. The perpetrator is targeting individuals who have crossed paths with Barry in unfortunate ways, and taunts Barry with a call after each murder. A series of dead ends and an increasing body count put the pressure on him to solve the case. But when the killer crosses another line by setting Barry up professionally and personally, it's obvious that Barry's done something to set this psychopath off. Game Piece by Alan Brenham is a fast-paced thriller that takes readers on an exciting journey of murder, revenge, and the power of love to drive people mad.
I enjoyed Game Piece. It is an exceptionally well-written and exciting mystery novel with excellent, believable characters, a thrilling adventure, and action on every page. There are no "slow" scenes, and the story moves along at a great pace to keep readers engaged and guessing not who the killer is, but rather how he will continue to evade Barry Marshall. Barry is also a believable and interesting character, with all of the charms, faults, and quirks that make a character so real that you'll believe they could be a real friend, neighbor, colleague or, more importantly, a detective you don't want to cross paths with! Alan Brenham has crafted a wonderful, exciting mystery that will keep readers engaged to the last page and beyond. An excellent novel!
Recommend this book:
Sold
Blair Denholm
2018 Finalist
324 Pages
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Fiction - Crime
Gary Braswell does not know how to stop and he keeps getting deeper and deeper into trouble. Fueled by alcohol, Gary is a gambler, and he likes to bet on cricket matches in his home country, Australia. He owes the bookie, Jocko Mackenzie, $4000 and the deadline date is fast approaching. As a successful luxury car salesman at Southport Euro Motors, he finds a way to secure the funds from his boss, Max Buckley. The wealthy Russian couple, Ivan and Irina Romashkin, buy four expensive vehicles (one each for themselves and their two daughters). Gary and his wife, Maddie, have a loving relationship, but his drinking and gambling is causing great strain in the marriage. Although Gary pays off the debt, Jocko has a second stipulation – and this one is dangerous and illegal. How Gary tries to meet this obligation, while keeping Maddie and himself alive, is the main theme in the gripping novel, Sold, written by Blair Denholm.
This fictional work is fast-paced and full of exciting moments. The author introduces many characters throughout the story, and each one is easily imagined in the reader’s mind. The reader is intrigued by Gary’s addictions and how these quickly affect his decision-making. The power that the criminal elements, as well as the alcohol and gambling, have over Gary’s thoughts and actions provide an interesting perspective. Author Blair Denholm engages the reader from the first page to the last in this captivating novel. This book is a definite page-turner, with many twists, turns, and surprises for the reader, including the ending.