n open book with its pages curved into the shape of a heart. The background is a gradient of soft blue and purple tones with glowing heart shapes, symbolizing romance and the Diamond Heart award.
Diamond Heart Award Logo

Purpose

The Diamond 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.

Vision

Envisioning 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 Diamond 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.

2025 Diamond Heart Award Winners

A muscular Viking warrior with long blond hair stands bare-chested on a rocky shore, gripping an axe. A Viking ship sails behind him. Title reads “The Viking Who Fell Through Time” by Maureen Castell.
A rugged man in outdoor gear and a beanie stands against a rocky background, carrying a backpack. Bold text reads “Not My Shadow” with the Shadow SEALs series logo and Elaine Levine’s name across the top.
A historical romance cover featuring a woman in a Regency-style gown painting at an easel. Colorful splashes surround her as the shadowy figure of a man, the duke, appears in the background. Title reads “Painting the Duke” by Georgina North.
A bright, colorful cover showing a blooming tree and a red barn beside a sparkling blue bay. A black dog lies on the grass by the water. Title reads “Coming Home to Magnolia Bay” by Babette de Jongh.

Speculative & Best First Book

The Viking Who Fell Through Time

by Maureen Castell

Romantic Suspense

Not My Shadow

by Elaine Levine

Historical Romance

Painting the Duke

by Georgina North

Contemporary Romance

Coming Home to Magnolia Bay

by Babette de Jongh