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:
The Secret
The Techboys Series
Eve M Riley
2024 Finalist
286 Pages
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Romance - Suspense
The Secret is the third book in the Techboys Series by Eve M Riley. Liss loves to flirt with attractive men as her life shifts between teaching at a university in New York and the volunteer work she does in Africa. She meets her match when Dan Andrews joins her group in the Congo. They have months of stolen glances and lustful moments, but they both know something more long-term is developing. Dan visits Liss in New York, promising to wait for her in Africa, but then he suddenly disappears. Liss tries to discover his whereabouts, seeking the help of the "techboys" her friends love, but she doesn't find him until three years later. Dan's secrets spill out, and Liss wonders if she can handle them all.
Eve M Riley involves her readers from the first page of this intricate romance, starting with an explosive confrontation. As the story progresses, she moves through Liss's and Dan's points of view, giving readers a full understanding of their feelings. The tension builds between Dan and Liss until it erupts into many steamy encounters. I dove into this book without reading the other books in the series, but each book focuses on another character's romance, so it can be read as a standalone novel. Riley wrote on a dual timeline, showing her readers the unfolding romance and revealing their lives after their romance abruptly concluded. I enjoyed the secrets, family difficulties, and the mysterious disappearance that made The Secret a great selection!
Recommend this book:
Paging Dr. Hart
Loving him might give her a heart attack
Melissa Dymond
2024 Honorable Mention
329 Pages
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Romance - Suspense
Paging Dr. Hart by Dr. Melissa Dymond is a contemporary medical romance with a suspenseful twist. Dr. Tiffany Hart, a senior resident in a hospital in Ohio, has built a tough exterior, dedicating her life completely to her studies. With no friends or fun activities, her sole ambition is to graduate as a radiologist with top honors. However, her well-built façade begins to crumble when she receives the responsibility of training the new resident, Dr. Ethan Clark. Despite efforts to maintain a tough persona, working closely with Ethan in Columbus and during the exchange program in Cleveland allows him to slip through her defenses. Scarred by a past where Tiffany was burnt by loved ones in more ways than one, she had resolved to shut herself off from new connections. As Tiffany comes to terms with her growing feelings for Ethan, she finds herself having to confront the ghosts from the past. Will a budding romance and new connections help Tiffany through this struggle, or will past demons drive away her future happiness?
Dr. Melissa Dymond’s Paging Dr. Hart ticks several of my boxes for a good read. The author presents the story using the first-person narrative, allowing me a glimpse into Tiffany's thoughts and feelings. A non-linear narrative gave me a better understanding of Tiffany’s character and provided context and background information on why she came to be the ‘Ice Maiden’ in the hospital. The steady pace, weaving the past and present, kept me invested in the story and helped reveal Tiffany’s vulnerabilities gradually. The theme of healing, both physically and emotionally, is at the heart of the narrative, exploring how past traumas can affect relationships in the present. Although Tiffany’s transformation from a closed-off person to someone willing to open up to new connections is the focus, Ethan, with his patience, kindness, and humor, is just what Tiffany needs. The language is clear with hints of humor, and there is a good balance between medical terminology and relatable descriptions. The beautiful pencil sketches throughout added to the overall appeal of this book for me.
Recommend this book:
Desire in Dairyland
A Small Town Contemporary Mystery Romance
Michelle Caffrey
2024 Bronze Medal
301 Pages
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Romance - Suspense
Desire in Dairyland is a crime drama romance novel by Michelle Caffrey. After being accepted into med school, Ruth Markson returns to her childhood home in the small town of Eureka, Wisconsin, hoping to make enough money for her tuition. She joins the Golden Years retirement facility as a nurse, but Ruth is shocked to learn about the unexpected deaths in the establishment. Meanwhile, she slowly begins to see her childhood friend, Tyler Kelly, in another light altogether, and soon, the two start a burgeoning romance. Tyler helps Ruth investigate the odd events surrounding Golden Years. However, Ruth must be careful as she unwittingly puts herself at the center of an insidious conspiracy. Can Ruth uncover the truth and help the residents? What does the future have in store for Ruth and Tyler?
Author Michelle Caffrey masterfully combines the genres of contemporary romance and sleuth mystery to deliver a riveting tale of romance, intrigue, suspense, and drama. Desire in Dairyland switches narrative tones seamlessly with Caffrey's generous use of dry humor and witty dialogue, and toward the end, an action-packed climax you never see coming. The plot has its share of twists and turns, along with some shocking reveals that keep you on the edge of your seat until the end. The narrative adds a small-town atmosphere to the setting, featuring some vibrant characters whose distinct personalities enhance Caffrey's storytelling. I really enjoyed the humor, especially the scenes involving the foul-mouthed Lillian. In conclusion, this is one of the most entertaining books I've read all year. I highly recommend it to lovers of contemporary romance and sleuth mystery readers.
Recommend this book:
In the Dark of Night
The Men of Fire Beach Book 9
Lorana Hoopes
2024 Silver Medal
162 Pages
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Romance - Suspense
In the Dark of Night is the ninth installment of The Men of Fire Beach series by Lorana Hoopes. Dr. Garrett Young, a pediatrician, has had enough of Chicago after a broken relationship and arrives in the coastal town of Fire Beach, hoping to start his life anew. He joins the Fire Beach Hospital, where he meets the beautiful pediatric nurse, Renee Mackey. Both Garrett and Renee feel an intense mutual attraction. However, their pasts make them hesitant to take the next step in their relationship. While attending to patients at an immigrant camp, Garrett is attacked. Meanwhile, he treats a kid who he suspects has been poisoned. When someone unexpectedly kidnaps Garrett, it's up to Renee and his brother, Officer Clay Young, to find him and rescue another innocent life.
Lorana Hoopes touches upon themes of redemption, faith, and hope in this riveting tale of love against all odds. In the Dark of Night is packed with romance, mystery, suspense, and intrigue. The plot is evenly paced and contains a couple of twists and turns that will pull the rug from under the feet of even the most ardent of thriller enthusiasts. However, the primary highlight of the book remains the love story between Garrett and Renee. The two main characters share much in common, including their faiths and complicated past relationships with other people. As a reader, you want to see them end up together. The ending wraps everything up with a nice little bow, and I found it immensely satisfying. Readers of contemporary romance will love this book.
Recommend this book:
Sins of the Father
RRMC
Nikki Landis
2024 Gold Medal
304 Pages
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Romance - Suspense
Sins of the Father by Nikki Landis is a romantic suspense novel set in the gritty world of motorcycle clubs. Edge, the son of a disgraced former president of the Ravage Riders MC, returns home after three years in prison, determined to restore his club and reclaim his lost love, Rae. As tensions rise between the Ravage Riders and their rivals, Satan’s Outlaws, Edge finds himself embroiled in a deadly turf war while uncovering dark secrets from his father's past. With danger closing in, Edge must navigate betrayal, violence, and his own demons to protect those he loves. Landis offers her readers a gripping and fast-paced narrative that keeps them hooked in every chapter, packed with intense action and high emotional stakes for the rugged hero and his lost love. This concept immediately warms readers to Edge, and his chequered past is an exciting prospect to begin the story.
Nikki Landis’s portrayal of complex, flawed characters is realistically penned, making their struggles and triumphs feel authentic and relatable through a close narration of their every thought and action. I felt like I knew all the intricate reasons why Edge acted the way he did, even when it seemed shocking, and getting to know him on such a deep level made me invested in the tale’s outcomes with Rae and his family drama. The pacing offers plenty of suspense and romance to split up the action and vary the excitement, balancing the tension of a high-stakes biker war with the passionate connection that readers can’t help but love. Overall, I would certainly recommend Sins of the Father to fans of exciting romantic dramas that throw them right into the center of the action.
Recommend this book:
A Compromising Position
Diane Merrill Wigginton
2023 Finalist
376 Pages
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Romance - Suspense
Is love the solution to our problems? Can good intentions build a solid moral compass? A Compromising Position by Diane Merrill Wigginton is a romantic suspense story reflecting the change that love can bring into someone's life. We learn about Catherine Lawrence, a newly appointed campaign manager. Following her grandmother's terminal illness, Catherine is forced to embark on a new journey. She falls in love with Jake Ryan, a surfer from Australia who comes to Florida. Their story is filled with all kinds of sacrifice and prejudice to reach the ultimate goal of living happily ever after. This story shares many experiences influenced by the account of one person in particular. Catherine's role in the story is profoundly exceptional.
It's heartwarming just to read the story of two love birds. Also, there are bits of comedy added to the storyline. Hope and optimism are included to stand for in Catherine's journey. Her character is that of a strong woman. Despite the simplicity of the overall story, Diane Merrill Wigginton has provided us with a unique concept. The use of illustrations came as a surprise to me. The idea behind it is exceptional. A Compromising Position is one of the best romance novels I've read. The natural attraction between Catherine and Jake is enticing. Their chemistry is fantastic. Just like all newly romantic relationships, it started awkwardly, but hope was there to keep the promise.
Recommend this book:
Saddled Hearts
The White Rune
Jan Sikes
2023 Honorable Mention
384 Pages
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Romance - Suspense
Saddled Hearts (The White Rune) by Jan Sikes recounts the heartfelt romance between Colt Layne and Sage Coventry. Colt is perplexed when Jeremiah Tompkins appears with a claim that his grandfather gambled the ranch away. Determined to save the property, he consults a psychic adviser named Sage, who receives a genuine message from the spirit of Buck Layne. Her warm nature prompts Colt to ask Sage out on a date. An arson attack soon results in Colt being framed for the murder of Jeremiah Tompkins. Is the answer to the riddle hidden in the pages of Buck Layne’s journals? Sage and Colt commence on a race against time and constant acts of sabotage. Could the perpetrator be closer than they expect?
Saddled Hearts (The White Rune) by Jan Sikes combined a wonderful love story with page-turning suspense. The character of Colt was admirable, and I applauded his desire to save horses. Colt was so evidently the rightful heir and the best candidate to run Layne Horse Sanctuary that I was as shocked as the characters when the lawless vandalism continued. I shuddered when the characters were placed in danger, and searched the pages for clues to the identity of the suspect. The cleverly written narrative kept me guessing until the end, but I was sure of one thing – Sage and Colt belonged together! Every paragraph I read charmed me and did not disappoint. I loved the horses, enjoyed the passion, and felt satisfied to see justice done. The book provided a rewarding afternoon of reading that combined mystery and romance.
Recommend this book:
The Roma's Claim
A Dark Roma Mafia Romance Book 1
Shae Coon
2023 Bronze Medal
544 Pages
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Romance - Suspense
The Roma's Claim (A Dark Roma Mafia Romance Book 1) by Shae Coon focuses on a payment owed to gypsies in 1960. When the gypsies healed Jolene, her mother had to give her to them after she recovered. Instead, Leandra fled Italy with Jolene to make a new start in America. Greta White was a descendant of Jolene. She had set up a Halloween gala to raise funds to end human trafficking. Her writing career as an author of romantic comedies had done well, but she wanted to try writing a dark romance. Emiliano Calvano was introduced to Greta at the gala. Unbeknownst to her, Emiliano had planned the meeting. Greta arrived at her home to find her faithful Doberman unconscious. She was hit by a dart and passed out. Greta woke up and discovered that she was on a plane headed for Italy and was at the mercy of Emiliano Calvano. She had to settle Leandra's debt by marrying Emiliano.
Shae Coon intensifies the tension and suspense with the dark desires Greta harbors. The alternating views of Greta and Emiliano show how they try to deny the growing passion they have for each other. Camil, a childhood friend of Emiliano's, was central to Greta accepting her situation. The vivid depiction of the inner conflict Greta felt is understandable. She wanted to hate Emiliano, but she could not deny her growing attraction to him. Emiliano's ability to go from being nice to a sadistic monster had me just as confused as Greta. However, there are moments when he shows redeeming qualities. Conversely, he is a Mafia boss who has bought the alliance of politicians and police officers. The unpredictable story held my attention throughout. I recommend The Roma's Claim (A Dark Roma Mafia Romance Book 1) to readers of Mafia romances that never have a dull moment.
Recommend this book:
In the Light of Day
A Christian Romantic Suspense
Lorana Hoopes
2023 Silver Medal
218 Pages
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Romance - Suspense
In the Light of Day is a romance thriller by Lorana Hoopes. Eight years after his heartbreaking separation from his girlfriend, Deacon Jackson, a former cop turned firefighter, receives an unexpected call from Shonda Turner. Shonda is in trouble after witnessing a fentanyl deal, and now dangerous men follow her trail as she finds her life turned upside down. Struggling with her memories and being forced to attend therapy, Shonda doesn't know if she can continue working as a nurse at her current hospital. Deacon takes Shonda and her son, Dante, out of town for protection and calls in a few favors at the police department to investigate the case. Meanwhile, their relationship develops a new spark. Can Deacon ensure Shonda and her son's safety? Will they be able to get back together?
In the Light of Day is an engaging romance novel that blends suspense, intrigue, and mystery. Author Lorana Hoopes also infuses some underlying Christian themes into this drama that offer thrills galore. One of my favorite things about this book is how well-paced Hoopes' narrative is. From the beginning, you're thrown right into the scheme of things, and it is a non-stop ride from there on out. There is no fat or fluff to be found within the pages, and it makes for an easy read as you don't want to put the book down. I also liked the chemistry between Deacon and Shonda. Their relationship is the heart of the story, and it acts as the plot's anchor. Recommended to romance readers who also enjoy a slight tinge of suspense and mystery.
Recommend this book:
Danger in Plain Sight
A Callie James Thriller
Burt Weissbourd
2023 Gold Medal
226 Pages
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Romance - Suspense
Danger In Plain Sight is a work of thriller fiction with plenty of interpersonal drama and was penned by author Burt Weissbourd. Part of the Callie James Series of thriller and drama novels, the titular character is a Seattle restaurateur who has moved on from many a difficulty in her old life. So when her ex-husband and investigative reporter Daniel shows up after fourteen years, it’s a bad omen, and even worse when it becomes clear that someone wants him dead. As Callie grits her teeth and agrees to hide and help him, so begins a dangerous game of cat and mouse as Callie must learn who to trust and how to get out of the tangled web that she never meant to put herself in.
One of the most accomplished elements of this highly entertaining novel is the way that the action hinges on the emotional and interpersonal arc of the story rather than the plot twists themselves. Though there are plenty of excellent moments and surprises as new obstacles and enemies arrive on the scene, it’s Callie’s relationships with the central figures, particularly Cash and Daniel, that give the story its realistic and heart-stopping impact. Author Burt Weissbourd plays out this non-stop action thriller across a well-planned arc with plenty of surprising layers and a series of detailed backdrop scenes that bring the tale to life with cinematic realism. Overall, Danger In Plain Sight is an excellent read and is highly recommended for thriller fiction fans all over.