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PurposeThe Golden Heart Awards recognize authors who have mastered the craft of romance writing and showcase their talent and creativity in producing romances that are equitable and inclusive and are exemplary models of the romance genre. We celebrate the power of the romance genre with its central message of hope and love, because romance is for everyone. VisionEnvisioning a celebration of romance in its myriad forms, we aspire to recognize, honor, and elevate the craft of romance writing in all its diversity, inclusivity, and equity. Through the Golden Heart Awards, we aim to recognize and honor those storytellers who beautifully weave narratives of love and hope, breaking barriers and embracing all shades of the human experience. We champion authors whose writing redefines the contours of the romance genre, contributing to a literary world where “happily ever afters” or “happy for nows” are for everyone. Our vision is to illuminate the power of romantic narratives that transcend differences, foster connections, and inspire hope, while ensuring the rich tapestry of our collective experiences is reflected and respected in every romantic tale we celebrate. 2024 Golden Heart AwardsContemporary Romance The Plus One Pact by Suzy Langevin (Winner) Historical Romance A Fearless Will by Lea Hollis (Winner) Love Across Genres Death in Miniature by Pamuela Ruth Meyer (Winner) CategoriesCategory Descriptions
Contemporary RomanceWorks that are set no more than 50 years before the contest date to the present. Erotic RomanceWorks in which strong, often explicit, sexual interaction is an inherent part of the love story, character growth and relationship development and could not be removed without damaging the storyline. These works may contain elements of other romance subgenres such as paranormal, historical, etc.). Historical RomanceWorks that are set at least 50 years before the contest date. Mainstream Fiction with a Central RomanceWorks in which themes or elements other than the romance are integral to the story even though a central love story and an emotionally satisfying and optimistic resolution to the romance are still present. Romance with Religious or Spiritual ElementsWorks in which spiritual beliefs are an inherent part of the love story, character growth, or relationship development, and could not be removed without damaging the storyline. These novels may be set in the context of any religious or spiritual belief system of any culture. Romantic SuspenseWorks in which suspense, mystery, or thriller elements constitute an integral part of the plot. Speculative RomanceWorks in which fantasy worlds or paranormal or science fiction elements are an integral part of the plot). Young Adult RomanceWorks in which young adult life is an integral part of the plot. Love Across GenresIn the event the entrant’s originally selected category does not receive the required number of entries to be judged, the entrant has the option to designate a secondary category or enter the Love Across Genres category. Past Winners |
