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:
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
273 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.
Recommend this book:
Love and Punishment
Susan Mac Nicol

2022 Finalist
294 Pages
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Romance - Suspense

Love and Punishment by Susan Mac Nicol is a suspenseful romance novel with a serial killer on the loose and taunting the authorities to catch him if they can. Detective Anthony Parglietto had his work cut out for him by the Bow-Tie Killer who seemed to enjoy Anthony’s misery. The serial killer would rape, torture, and kill his victims and leave a bow-tie around their necks to mark them as his kills. Flynn Parker, an investigative reporter, has made it known that he would like to tell the serial killer’s story. So the killer kidnaps him but lets him go. After that, he leaves a series of emails for Flynn to figure out who the serial killer is and not to share the information with Anthony, or there would be consequences. As the killer stays one step ahead of the two of them, things start to get dangerous. Somehow, Flynn and Anthony need to figure out the clues before it is too late.
I love a good mystery filled with suspense and plenty of action. Anthony and Flynn make a great couple and partners. While things aren’t going their way from the start, they make it work. In the beginning, I thought Flynn was foolish to invite BTK like that, but that was such a good turn of events by the author. Susan Mac Nicol did a fantastic job with building the story up, making readers invest in the story and surprise them with twists after twists. The character development is brilliant, the plot is outstanding, and the pace is perfect. There is never a dull moment in Love and Punishment. Something is happening on every page, and I love that. I would highly recommend this novel to LGBTQ romance fans!
Recommend this book:
Trapped
Retrieval, Inc. Book 2
JB Schroeder

2022 Honorable Mention
338 Pages
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Romance - Suspense

Trapped (Retrieval, Inc. Book 2) by JB Schroeder focuses on Charlie and Mitch’s relationship, and the missing Ian Cross. After a stressful questioning by the district attorney, Charlie doesn’t feel confident enough to face her past with Thomas Weihle. The man had caused her emotional and physical trauma and as a result, she did not trust anyone. Mitch tries to reach her but discovers she has run off without telling anyone. Charlie was volunteering in a soup kitchen when Stephen Cross enters and asks if his son Ian had shown up there as he had disappeared mysteriously. Charlie knew Ian was a recovering addict and she suggested that Stephen bring in Mitch as a private investigator. Mitch knew she would not commit to salvaging their relationship when she called for his help. Where is Ian? How much trouble has he gotten into or is he still alive?
JB Schroeder makes a dynamic plot come alive with an immense amount of conflict. I understood why Charlie lacked trust in people, as anyone suffering from the psychological effects of abuse would. However, the way she used her past as an excuse to hurt others was selfish. Mitch went above and beyond to be supportive and understanding. His career as a private investigator was just starting, and he considered her feelings regarding his work. Stephen Cross appeared to be a concerned father, but why he was not forthcoming with important information was appalling. As the story progressed, I didn’t know if Ian could survive his ordeal or if Charlie would open up her life to Mitch. The suspense intensified as the danger became imminent, and I couldn’t stop turning the pages. The cliffhanger conclusion came out of the left field, as I had not expected any unresolved issues. I recommend Trapped for readers who enjoy suspenseful stories presented from the viewpoints of several well-developed characters.
Recommend this book:
Broken
K.M. Harding

2022 Bronze Medal
381 Pages
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Romance - Suspense

Dani has lived through horrors that nobody should have to experience, and she exists apart from everyone else because of it. She is missing her memory from several major years of her life, and she doesn’t expect to ever get them back. Dani lives by herself, works a couple of jobs, and has a passion for music, but getting close to people is not something she enjoys or excels in. But when she meets Damien, she slowly feels herself connecting with him despite her initial reaction to their attraction. However, when something happens that brings glimpses of Dani’s memories back, she’s shocked at what her life looked like before. Will she and Damien be able to survive what happened, or will her past catch up to her once again? Broken by K.M. Harding is a romance that dives deep into grief, loss, and healing.
Romance is one of my favorite genres, and I’m so glad I had the opportunity to read this book. The plot and characters sucked me in from the start, and I couldn’t wait to see the story develop. The random second-person comments scattered throughout Broken caused a bit of disconnection for me, but it wasn’t enough to completely take away my curiosity about Dani and Damien’s relationship. The plot twist between them came out of nowhere and truly shocked me; I really liked it! Overall, I would recommend Broken by K.M. Harding to readers who enjoy romances that lean toward the darker side. This was a captivating book full of suspense, action, and great chemistry between two wonderful characters.
Recommend this book:
Ghosts in Sunlight
Book 1 - Marian and Marc
Gretta Curran Browne

2022 Silver Medal
311 Pages
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Romance - Suspense

Ghosts in Sunlight by Gretta Curran Browne is an intense love story. It follows the lives of Marian and Marc, two young souls who meet each other unexpectedly. Marian is working in a restaurant when Marc arrives as a customer with his friend Jimmy. Marian and Marc are soon preoccupied with each other and before long they develop a passionate love. However, there are a lot of obstacles in their way. In a flashback to an earlier timeline, another character (Jacqueline) is shown as an inquisitive young girl during World War II who does everything in her power to protect her beloved France as a part of the Resistance.
I enjoyed reading this marvelous story. Gretta Curran Browne has a way with words, envisioning such intense love. I adored the characters, especially Marian, who was a helpless soul at the beginning and couldn't find a way forward for herself. The meeting between Marian and Marc is described astoundingly. I liked the plot of Ghosts in Sunlight, the steady way the story was developed, and the descriptions of the characters. The pacing is right, and the timeline of the setting is perfect for the plot. Seeing 20th century France lit up the story and my emotions just welled up. I felt intense sympathy for the group fighting for their freedom, their patriotism, and their love for their country. It was so incredible. I highly recommend this interesting, stirring novel.
Recommend this book:
Shadow in the Mountain
Shadow SEALs
KaLyn Cooper

2022 Gold Medal
233 Pages
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Romance - Suspense

Former Navy SEAL Ryker Tufano and his teammates went to Ethiopia on a mission. They walked into an ambush that wiped out the troop. Ryker suffered survivor’s guilt and drowned himself in alcohol because not only did he lose his brothers, but he was also dishonorably discharged from the Navy. A stranger called out of the blue to tell him that his brothers in arms were alive. It was all a setup, and he swore vengeance. Ryker returned to Ethiopia, where he teamed up with Xena Riggs for the rescue. Sparks flew between Ryker and Xena, but she had a secret that put him in his present predicament. Will Xena’s secret ruin their budding passion? Can they save the captured SEALs? Shadow in the Mountain by KaLyn Cooper has all the details.
Shadow in the Mountain by KaLyn Cooper is the fourth book in the Shadow SEALs series, a blend of action, drama, and romance. This novel deserves a place on the big screen and I loved the brilliant plot and unique cast of characters. The development was also fantastic, capturing me every step of the way. Working for the government in sensitive capacities is a harrowing adventure because the more you look, the less you see. The higher-ups use people as pawns to further their agendas and ruin lives. It’s pathetic. Xena was my favorite character in this book. She combined vibes from Tomb Raider’s Lara Croft and Colombiana’s Cataliya to give me full-time action. I loved the fast pace and KaLyn’s writing style, which was easy to follow. Do Serena and Ajax have a story? They deserve one. Thank you for a beautiful book.
