An open book with its pages folded into a heart shape. The background is a warm golden and purple gradient with glowing heart shapes, representing love and the Golden Heart award.
Golden Heart Award Logo

Purpose

The 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.

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 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.

2025 Golden Heart Award Winners

Love Across Genres

Death in Miniature

by Pamela Ruth Meyer

Historical Romance

A Fearless Will

by Lea Hollis

Contemporary Romance

The Plus One Pact

by Suzy Langevin