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/Novella
- 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 - Science/Technology
- Non-Fiction - Self Help
- Non-Fiction - Short Story/Novella
- 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:
Lost Heart in King Manor
Book One in the Mysteries of a Heart Series
Celeste Fenton
2026 Finalist
347 Pages
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Romance - Suspense

Lost Heart in King Manor by Celeste Fenton is the first book in the Mysteries of a Heart Series. Gabby enjoyed the peace of her predictable life until the day she drove her daughter to graduate school. When she receives a phone call that her mother was taken to the emergency room, she rushes to her side only to find a mysterious stranger at her mom's bedside. Things only escalate from there as the incident sparks a chain reaction that leads to unsettling discoveries, shocking truths, and secrets that refuse to stay buried in the past. Her mother is sent to recover at a rehabilitation estate, King Manor, with an interesting reputation, and soon Gabby finds herself in danger. Adding to the complications in her life, she also finds herself trapped in the manor during a hurricane and pulled between two charming men as she digs up the truth.
The mystery strikes all the right moments with hijinks, danger, and sleuthing perfectly balanced throughout. Celeste Fenton does a splendid job of keeping you on your toes with suspense, particularly the events surrounding Gabby’s inner circle. The suspense builds gradually and pulls you in deeper, only for twists -- such as a hurricane -- to pull you in another direction. The story incorporates humor and even a little lighthearted drama in a love triangle. These create intriguing layers. Romance lovers will enjoy the potential relationships woven into the story that have an interesting payoff at the end. The story strikes a nice balance between Gabby’s life and the mystery. The island is a stunning backdrop, as it fills the story as a character in itself as secrets are revealed, and even the truth can be deadly. A significant theme is the concept of the past, which haunts the characters like a ghost, and one wonders by the end whether it should have stayed buried. Lost Heart in King Manor has something for everyone with romance, suspense, humor, strong female leads, and amateur sleuths.
Recommend this book:
Gaslight
Book 1 of the Apex Society Trilogy
Rhone Atleshen
2026 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Romance - Suspense

In Gaslight: Book 1 of the Apex Society Trilogy by Rhone Atleshen, Moira leaves everything behind to follow a man who promises her a new life. Instead, Moira finds herself tied to someone who is dangerous and an operative of a secretive organization. A fire engulfs Branson Heights, and firefighter Chase pulls Moira from the flames and stays by her side in the hospital. There, Moira discovers she is pregnant. Chase has never felt such a powerful bond with someone he had helped, and he is determined to protect her and her unborn child. Chase vows to keep them safe, and Moira accepts his protection by agreeing to a marriage of convenience. As investigators probe the Branson Heights fire, suspicion grows that Moira herself may have been the target.
Gaslight by Rhone Atleshen is a gripping roller coaster of lies, betrayal, and danger. The plot is fast-paced and packed with action, hooking me from the very first page and keeping me turning pages late into the night. Themes of secrecy, truth, power, and trust are seamlessly woven throughout, with multiple plotlines converging in a way that complements the story. The writing style is immersive and engaging, making it easy to lose myself in Moira's and Chase’s lives. The characters are authentic and relatable—flawed, layered, and not always driven by pure motives. Each one plays a meaningful role in the story, adding depth to the plot. The book was so well written and delivered everything I look for in a standout read. It is thrilling, emotionally charged, and thought-provoking, and it stayed with me long after I finished reading.
Recommend this book:
Ready for a Storm
Storm Series Book 1
Josephine Jordin
2026 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Romance - Suspense

Josephine Jordin delivers spicy romantic suspense in Ready for a Storm. Ava Ellis is slowly rebuilding her acting career and her heart. After returning home from a four-week stint in front of the camera, Ava is looking forward to much-needed rest and quiet. The last thing she expects is to be attacked in her own house and threatened. Her brother, the intended target of the attack, immediately arranges for retired operatives to keep Ava safe. Mason Storm is restless and moody. When the new gig to babysit an entitled actress comes along, his team is excited. What Mason doesn’t expect is discovering that Ava isn’t anything like he imagined, and he finds himself falling for her. And Ava is just as much attracted to Mason.
Author Josephine Jordin has written a superbly suspenseful story with quite a few twists and turns. The two main characters are strong, full of depth, likable, and very relatable. The supporting characters are well-developed and help keep the pace going. Small mannerisms woven into the gripping dialogue will have all the players etched in the reader's mind. Beautifully descriptive scenery with vibrant colors will excite your senses while also aiding in building the plot. Due to its sexual content, Ready for a Storm is recommended for mature readers. These scenes are written with grace and finesse and are by no means overdone. There is also plenty of action and suspense to satisfy readers who enjoy these genres. This is the first book in the Storm Series, and I am eagerly awaiting the next adventure.
Recommend this book:
The Beast Prince
A Montevor Royals Saga standalone
Alix Nichols
2026 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Romance - Suspense

In The Beast Prince by Alix Nichols, readers are introduced to Elise, a quiet, outdoorsy glassblower in Chambéry, who walks into a dark hotel room with the intention of repaying a family debt, only to discover the person she thought would be there isn’t. Cue Theodor Delaroche, the man she calls a “beast” and believes she’s supposed to sleep with. He’s a wealthy, badly burned Monegasque “businessman” who has secretly paid off that obligation. But he hasn’t done it out of the goodness of his heart. He’s there to offer her an entirely different and unexpected bargain: 30 days searching for a World War II–era key that has ties to her family. As Elise reluctantly agrees, she’s drawn into Theo’s hidden world of duty, political threats, and a centuries-old mystery. Their quest leads them from the French Alps to Normandy and beyond, crossing paths with ruthless enemies, family secrets, and revelations that change both of their lives. Will they be able to find the key in time? Will she be able to see past his scars? Will he let her in?
The Beast Prince by Alix Nichols pulled me in right away—first with its title—but what kept me turning the pages was its blend of modern fairy-tale vibes and mafia-like intrigue. Everything was so easy to picture, from the snowy mountain villages and cozy hotels to the sea views in Normandy. I really liked how Elise’s down-to-earth nature balanced Theo’s intense, calculating personality. The writing is smooth and easy to read, with just enough heat, danger, and emotion to keep the plot moving. I especially appreciated how the lesson woven throughout about looks, worth, and what truly makes someone lovable was subtle. Fans of slow-burning romances that are emotionally charged and a bit dark at times will absolutely love this tale. This story truly encapsulates what Antoine de Saint-Exupéry once wrote, “It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye.” I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Recommend this book:
Fractured Valor
AA DaSilva
2026 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Romance - Suspense

Fractured Valor is an action-packed, romantic thriller by AA DaSilva. Xavier Mastroanni is a former US Army veteran. For two years, Xavier has carried the guilt of failing to complete his assigned mission of assassinating a cartel drug lord. He finally finds a path to redemption when his friend, Vincent Samuels, assigns him a task on behalf of Bolton's Valor Security. Xavier must accompany the scientist Isabel Torres and the antidote she has created for a bioweapon that's in the hands of the cartel. However, as Xavier and Isabel grow closer, the dangers of their mission truly come to the surface. Additionally, Isabel's brother, Rio, isn't happy with Xavier and Isabel's relationship, as he feels protective of his sister. Now, Xavier must confront an old enemy while Isabel shares her deepest, darkest secret.
Full of suspense, romance, and intrigue, Fractured Valor will delight thrill-seeking readers. The narrative plays out like the screenplay of a Hollywood action blockbuster. Author AA DaSilva spins a fast-paced plot, with plenty of twists and turns to entertain readers. Both protagonists have backstories that drive their actions and motivations. It brings much depth to their characterization and makes their personalities shine all the more. Xavier and Isabel have amazing chemistry. Every scene between the two of them is a joy to read. I also liked the way DaSilva brought them together, with their paths entwined due to their pasts. The big reveal toward the end definitely took me by surprise. Overall, it's a fantastic story. Definitely grab a copy!
Recommend this book:
The Broken Wife
Kay Elem
2025 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Romance - Suspense

The Broken Wife by Kay Elem is Aileen’s story about her grief after her husband’s passing. Ten years earlier, Aileen’s husband, Tom, died of a heart attack while on a business trip, and his death was ruled as natural causes. With new technology, the Pinehill Valley Police Department received new evidence regarding Tom’s death, and the case was reopened. Detective Cooper was assigned this old case, and he accepted it with not much hope of finding the killer after all these years. Aileen offered to help Cooper with his investigation, and he agreed. The atmosphere was initially awkward and tense between Aileen and Cooper, but with the time they spent together, an attraction developed between them. During Cooper's investigation, Aileen found that Tom was not the perfect husband she had believed him to be all these years.
The Broken Wife by Kay Elem kept me on the edge of my seat. Tom and Aileen's past was detailed in one chapter, and then it changed to the present in the next. This way, it was easier to understand them and where they came from. With all the twists and turns, I never knew what would happen next, and I could not turn the pages fast enough. The characters were authentic and relatable. Aileen was a normal stay-at-home mom who gave her children all the attention they needed. The topics of betrayal, abuse, and grief were handled with great care. The story was engaging and beautifully written. I enjoyed reading this book and could not believe that I finished it in one sitting. The ending was unexpected and a big surprise.
Recommend this book:
Dangerous Attraction
Anastasi Family Syndicate
Dori Pulitano
2025 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Romance - Suspense

Dangerous Attraction by Dori Pulitano weaves an intense tale of crime, loyalty, and romance, centered on Massimo, a Mafia figure, and Madison, who finds herself reluctantly drawn into his dangerous world. Madison applies to work at Velvet Ace Lounge and Casino, the Anastasi family's business. On the day of the interview, Madison's beauty struck Massimo, and at once he was attracted to her. As Massimo tries to manage his feelings for Madison, a break-in happens at Madison's apartment, leaving her vulnerable and leading Massimo to step in as her protector. At this moment, the stage is set for a series of events filled with tension and action, as Massimo’s determination to protect Madison reveals a deeper emotional attraction between them. Massimo and Madison's relationship is put to the test by both external and internal threats. Massimo's family relationships, duties, and lifestyle risks weigh heavily on their lives. The novel explores how love and responsibility may intersect in unexpected and often dangerous ways through scenes of violence, family loyalty, and romance. These experiences create a setting that keeps the characters—and readers—on edge.
Dangerous Attraction is fascinating, with a balance of fast-paced action from Mafia conflicts to calmer, more intimate moments that reveal the characters' intricacies. I like that Massimo and Madison are well-developed characters with vulnerabilities that make them likable, even in the high-stakes world they inhabit. I like that the pace is consistent, with just enough tension developing between scenes, while action scenes and emotional exchanges move the plot along. Dangerous Attraction expertly evokes the grit and intrigue of a society filled with loyalty and betrayal, love and danger. The themes of resilience and loyalty come through, making the book not only engaging but also thought-provoking. If you like stories that fuse romance with thrilling, high-stakes drama, you will enjoy this book as much as I did.
Recommend this book:
Exposed Desire
The Benedict Brothers Book 3
Tara Sue Me
2025 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Romance - Suspense

Exposed Desire: The Benedict Brothers Book 3 by Tara Sue Me centers around Officer Alyssa and the eldest Benedict brother, Kipling. The heat between them is fierce enough to burn down their town, Charleston, but they cannot be together. For one, Kipling is a wealthy businessman with an infamous reputation as a playboy, whereas Alyssa is quite the ordinary police officer. Even worse, Officer Alyssa has arrested him once and is deeply enmeshed in a case involving his family. At a wedding, they decide to let down their guard and enjoy each other's company. But one dance is not enough; they want so much more. When Kipling’s sister goes missing, can they work together to find her before the Charleston serial killer strikes closer to home?
Although Exposed Desire is the third book in the Benedict Brothers trilogy, I was able to read and enjoy Kipling's and Alyssa’s roles in the story as a stand-alone, but I would recommend following the entire series to enjoy these protective men and the women they love. The suspense builds in this book, and the stakes are even higher. A long-guarded secret and a cold case tie Kipling and Alyssa together, and as they race against time to solve them, their guards come down, and they see each other for who they are beneath the protective façade. Tara Sue Me delivers a steamy, fast-paced, suspenseful romance for readers who enjoy a strong heroine and lots of danger.
Recommend this book:
Damiano's Rescue
The Famiglia
Leah Merrill
2025 Silver Medal
363 Pages
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Romance - Suspense

Leah Merrill’s Damiano’s Rescue is a wildly addictive romance with a quirky, soft-hearted heroine and her dangerously passionate mafia enforcer. Paige is an endearing wildlife rescuer who spends her days rehabilitating injured animals and nursing them back to health. But nothing could have prepared her for the half-dead man she finds bleeding out in the back of her car. His final words to her are a plea not to involve the hospital or police. Instead of running in the opposite direction like most people would, Paige does what she does best. She takes him home, patches him up, and cares for him like one of her rescues. But the sexy, chiseled man in a coma on her couch is not just like her other rescues. Paige will have to do things like undress him and bathe him, right? For medical reasons, obviously! And how is she to know that her patient is awake and in hiding, enjoying every one of her caresses?
Damiano’s Rescue is funny, light-hearted, and sizzling. It’s a mafia romance, so expect lots of violence and action, and leave your scruples at the door. Leah Merrill does not hold back on the grit; there are gunfights, car chases, blood, and danger. This is a sweet, Grumpy x Sunshine novel: a hard-edged, emotionally closed-off hero who finds himself fascinated by the strange and lovely woman who rescued him, and a tender and compassionate heroine. Paige is naïve to the point of silliness, and her internal monologue is hilarious. If you are a fan of humour, suspense, and smoldering chemistry, Damiano’s Rescue is a ride you won’t want to miss
Recommend this book:
The Left Hand
Brittnay J Sears
2025 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Romance - Suspense

The Left Hand by Brittnay J. Sears is a gripping romantic thriller that transports readers to the dangerous world of 1950s organized crime. The story follows Jan Hendricks, a Montana farm girl, whose life takes an unexpected turn when she falls for the charismatic Lavio Rossano, a man deeply embedded in a powerful crime family. As their romance deepens, Jan transforms into 'The Left Hand,' becoming the silent but lethal force behind her husband's operations, handling the family's most perilous tasks with calculated precision. Set against a backdrop of smoky jazz clubs and shadowy dealings, the novel explores the intricate dance between love and loyalty, moral compromise and devotion, as Jan navigates her evolution from an innocent farm girl to a crucial player in a dangerous criminal enterprise.
Author Brittnay J. Sears demonstrates an exceptional talent for bringing the 1950s underworld to vivid life. It's an era I adore, so I was thrilled to see such atmospheric and authentic detail throughout the story. I was also completely immersed in her richly descriptive prose, which captures everything from the sultry atmosphere of jazz clubs to the tension-filled moments of criminal operations. The nuanced portrayal of Jan's transformation is remarkably authentic, showing both the psychological and emotional toll of her choices and the close narrative perspective offers brilliant speech and thought presentation as she makes these big decisions. What particularly captivated me was Sears' fresh perspective on organized crime through the lens of the women behind the scenes, offering a unique exploration of power, sacrifice, and the lengths one might go to protect those they love. Overall, The Left Hand is an unforgettable journey into the heart of 1950s crime that will keep readers spellbound until the final page, and I would definitely recommend it.