PREVIEW of 2023 Winners and Finalists

Open AllCATEGORY WINNERS AND FINALISTS

ACTION/ADVENTURE (FICTION)

WINNERS ($100): TIE

• Incoming - the piteous recognition of slaughter, by Richard E. Baker (Ink & Lens Ltd)
• Retribution Times Two, by Paul Mark Tag (iUniverse)

FINALISTS:

• A Sacred Duty: An FBI Yellowstone Adventure, by Rhona Weaver (Two Oaks Press)
• Checkmate, by Norman Wood, Edited by Julie Scandora (Book House Publishing)
• Just a Normal Day, by Craig Baumken (Self-Published)
• Proud Pada, by S.G. Blaise, Edited by New York Book Editors (Lilac Grove Entertainment)
• Return to Canyon Creek, by John Layne; Other Contributors: Christine Baker, CB Creative (Labrador Publishing)
• The Smallest War, by Mark Sheehan (Mark Sheehan)
• War of the Sea, by Dana Claire (Chamberlain Publishing House)

ACTIVITY BOOKS (ALL AGES)

WINNER ($100):

• How to Draw Adorable: Joyful Lessons for Making Cute Art, by Carlianne Tipsey (Girl Friday Books)

FINALISTS:

• Gracie's Guide: Be Kind, by Angie Wilson (Headline Books)
• I KNOW WHO I AM ON THE FAMILY TREE, by Denise I. Griggs, Illustrated by Denise I. Griggs (Glass Tree Books)
• Letter to My Dreams for the Children of the World, by Pilar Velez, Illustrated by Alynor Diaz (Snow Fountain Press)
• Thar Be Puzzles: A Pirate-Themed Activity Book for Adults, by Carrie Spiker, Edited by Emilia Schroer (Puzzle Llama Publishing, LLC)
• The Pursuit of Black Excellence for Teens, by Linnita Hosten, Edited by Melanie Glassford (Lulu)

AFRICAN AMERICAN (FICTION)

WINNER ($100):

• If Someday Comes - A Slave's Tale of Freedom, by David Calloway (Self-Published - Point Fermin Publishing)

FINALISTS:

• Look Unto the Land, by George Rollie Adams (Barn Loft Press)
• Scorn of Secrets, by B. Truly, Edited by Laura Kenney (Kindle Direct Publishing)
• Song of Redemption, by Malika J. Stevely (MJS Publishing Lab)
• Tainted Justice, by Duke Southard (Wheatmark)
• The Aziza Chronicles: Awakening, by TreVaughn Malik Roach-Carter, Edited by Sanford Larson and A.K. Adler (Deep Hearts YA)

AFRICAN AMERICAN (NON-FICTION)

WINNER ($100):

• When Your Hand is in the Lion's Mouth: The Life and Wisdom of a Man Named Green, by Nita Whitaker (NitWhit, Incorporated)

FINALISTS:

• Black Homesteaders of the South, by Bernice Alexander Bennett (The History Press)
• Born Into Crisis, by Kenneth Nixon Jr., Edited by Dawn Raffle, Burning Soul Press (Burning Soul Press)
• Green Rush Fever In The Red Hills of North Florida, by Jimmy Jenkins, Edited by FiFi Klein (CA), Amy Norton (FL), Illustrated by CK Book Cover Designs (Slo Ventures LLC)
• Life Travel And The People In Between: Memoir, by Mike Nixon, Edited by Christian Coleman, Aisha Martell (Palmetto Publishing)
• Unbelievable! The Life Journey of Art Williams: Baseball's First Black National League Umpire, by Dr. Audie Williams, Edited by Angela Bartel, Maria Williams-Slaughter; Other Contributors: Dodie Williams, Edward C. Bartel II (Cover Designer) (Self-Published)

AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY/CULTURE

WINNER ($100):

• Traveling Freedom's Road: A Guide to Exploring Our Civil Rights History, by John J. Hanrahan (Freedom's Road Press)

FINALISTS:

• "No Equal Justice": The Legacy of Civil Rights Icon George W. Crockett Jr., by Edward J. Littlejohn and Peter J. Hammer (Wayne State University Press)
• A Wife In Watercolor, by B. B Shamp (Secant Publishing)
• Black Homesteaders of the South, by Bernice Alexander Bennett (The History Press)
• The Humanity Archive: Recovering the Soul of Black History from a Whitewashed American Myth, by Jermaine Fowler, Edited by Kristen McGuiness (Row House Publishing)
• Thinking While Black: Translating the Politics and Popular Culture of a Rebel Generation, by Daniel McNeil (Between the Lines)

ANIMALS/PETS

WINNER ($100):

• The Accidental Reef and Other Ecological Odysseys in the Great Lakes, by Lynne Heasley, Illustrated by Glenn Wolff (Michigan State University Press)

FINALISTS:

• Buzz the Not-So-Brave, by Dani Nichols, Illustrated by Kristin McNess Moran (Punchline Publishers)
• Elephant and Bird, by Sally Hinkley, Edited by Dave Pasquantonio, Illustrated by Sally Hinkley (Cover Art) (Gold Clover Books)
• Ephemeral Wings, by Eva Silverfine, Illustrated by Taina Litwak (Black Rose Writing)
• Tuck-a-tuck Dragon, by Stephan Theo, JL Morin, Illustrated by Stephan Theo, Nicole Theo (Harvard Square Editions)
• Where's My Joey? A Heartwarming Bedtime Story for Children of All Ages, by Wendy Monica Winter, Illustrated by Roxana Chitanu (Self-Published)
• Whitetail Secrets: Family Life, by Susan Lindsley (ThomasMax Publishing)

ANTHOLOGY

WINNER ($100):

• Paddling Pathways: Reflections from a Changing Landscape, Edited by Bob Henderson, Sean Blenkinsop (Your Nickel's Worth Publishing)

FINALISTS:

• Behind The Curtain: Remarkable Stories of What Really Happens in Medicine, by Multiple Authors, Edited by Ashley Hannani (NA)
• Curious: Are my Stories about Morals? by Peggy Jo Henry (Outskirts Press, Inc.)
• Hadha Baladuna: Arab American Narratives of Boundary and Belonging, Edited by Ghassan Zeineddine, Nabeel Abraham, and Sally Howell (Wayne State University Press)
• Old Love Skin: Voices From Contemporary Africa, by Multiple authors (Mukana Press)
• Wandering in Japan: The Spirit of Tokyo, Kyoto and Beyond, by Multiple authors, Edited by Linda Watanabe McFerrin and Laurie McAndish King (Wanderland Writers)

ART

WINNER ($100):

• Butterfly Wood: Frank Lloyd Wright's Prairie House West, by Robert L Ooley FAIA, Edited by Erin Graffey; Other Contributors: Anna Lafferty, Book Production (Kieran Publishing)

FINALISTS:

• Arreguin: Painter From the New World, Illustrated by Phil Kovacevich (Museum of Northwest Art)
• Face Your Shit, Heal Yourself: Augmented Reality Art, Healing Endometriosis & The Path of True Freedom, by Meredith Ochoa, Edited by Anita R. Henderson - Write Your Life, Illustrated by Meredith Ochoa (ANOTHER F*#%ING ARTIST)
• How to Draw Adorable: Joyful Lessons for Making Cute Art, by Carlianne Tipsey (Girl Friday Books)
• The Pandemic Portraits by Nicholas Hill, by Janice Glowski, Illustrated by Nicholas Hill; Other Contributors: Terry Hermsen (Poet), Jacob Strous (Designer) (The Frank Museum of Art)
• The Villagers, by Derek Owens; Other Contributors: Caroline Golden (Art) (Animal Heart Press)

AUTOBIOGRAPHY/BIOGRAPHY

WINNER ($100):

• Dewees Cochran: The Artist and Her Dolls, by Ann M Leis (Redwood Publishing, LLC)

FINALISTS:

• Century's Witness, the Extraordinary Life of Journalist Wallace Carroll, by Mary Llewellyn McNeil (Whaler Books)
• Painful Joy: A Holocaust Family Memoir, by Max J. Friedman (Amsterdam Publishers)
• Saga of an Aviation Survivor, by John Howard "Mike" Hunt (Fathom Publishing)
• Seeing Eye Girl: A Memoir of Madness, Resilience, and Hope, by Beverly J. Armento (She Writes Press)
• Seeking Shelter: Memoir of a Jewish Girlhood in Wartime Britain, by Cynthia Ehrenkrantz, Edited by Gini Kopecky Wallace, Lisa Romeo (Greenpoint Press)
• The Chance: The true story of one girl's journey to freedom, by Lisa Cheng and Bruce M Baker (Soonershoot Press)
• The Sun Express: 27 Stations to Redemption - Based on a True Story, by Pilar Velez (Snow Fountain Press)

BEST COVER DESIGN (FICTION)

WINNERS ($100): TIE

• Autumn Gold: A Rendezvous with Cancer, Knowing Death is Not Final, by Lesley Lowe, Edited by Ann Mason, Ellen Kleiner; Other Contributors: Angela Werneke (33 Greyhound Press)
• The Hive, by Melissa Scholes Young (Keylight Books, Turner Publishing)

FINALISTS:

• Cobra Pose, by Susan Rogers and John Roosen, Illustrated by Tess McCabe, Susan Rogers, John Roosen, Nicholas Roosen, Pooja Khatri (G-EMS PTY LTD and PS LLC)
• Hunted, by V. M. Nelson, Edited by Courtney Andersson, Lara Kennedy, Liz Gilbeau; Other Contributors: Stefanie Saw (Cover Designer) (VMNelson Books LLC)
• Love, Alice, by Amanda Sthers (Wyatt-MacKenzie)
• Send Her Back and Other Stories, by Munashe Kaseke (Mukana Press)
• The Adventures of Papa Lemon's Little Wanderers Losing Lizzy A Story of Grief, by Lehman Riley, Edited by Megan Sperber; Other Contributors: Tamara Dever, Cover and Layout Design (Matter of Africa America Time Corporation)
• The Call of Jeremiah McGill, by Joseph Moore (Gatekeeper Press)
• Witch Window; A Murder on Skis Mystery, by Phil Bayly, Edited by Deirdre Stoelzle, Illustrated by Cover: Carolyn Bayly & Debbi Wraga (Phil Bayly)

BEST COVER DESIGN (NON-FICTION)

WINNERS ($100): TIE

• Daily Doubles 2 - Celebrity Impersonators, by C.J. Morgan, Jack Bullard (Top Ten Productions)
• Lechuguilla Cave: Discoveries in a Hidden Splendor, by Max Wisshak & Hazel A. Barton (Editors), Edited by Max Wisshak & Hazel A. Barton, Illustrated by Multiple Photographers; Other Contributors: Multiple Contributors (speleo-photo editions)

FINALISTS:

• Age of Secrets: The Conspiracy that Toppled Richard Nixon and the Hidden Death of Howard Hughes, by Gerald Bellett; Other Contributors: Jim Meier (Meier Publishing)
• Antonio, We Know You, by Antonio Salazar-Hobson (Wyatt-MacKenzie)
• Earthrise: Leadership Lessons From the Apollo Space Missions, by Jeff Appelquist (Wise Ink Creative Publishing)
• It's Not About the Mangos - Organizational Success Means Putting People First, by Kent Coleman (TireGuyPress)
• On the Wings of the Condor, by Bill Toone, Edited by Misti Moyer; Other Contributors: Linn Splane (Cover Design) (CCS Publications)
• The Vet at Noah's Ark: Stories of Survival from an Inner-City Animal Hospital, by Dr. Douglas Mader, Edited by Julia Abramoff; Other Contributors: Foreword by Dr. Kevin T. Fitzgerald (Apollo Publishers)
• The White House in Gingerbread: Memories and Recipes, by Roland Mesnier, Mark Ramsdell (The White House Historical Association)

BEST OVERALL DESIGN (FICTION) (DIGITALLY SUBMITTED FOR JUDGING)

WINNER ($100):

• Fences of The Light: A novel about time, by J. D. Cortese, Illustrated by Dissect Designs (Opportuna Libra, LLC)

FINALISTS:

• Sneaky Snobby, by Jennifer Kvam, Edited by Jennifer Rees, Illustrated by Sarah Joy Kvam (Loyal Labradors Press)
• The Carpenter and The Goat Herder, by Merlin Goldman, Edited by Craig Simpson, Illustrated by Merlin Goldman; Other Contributors: Joanna Peios (Magnetical)
• The Forgotten Witch, by Jesscia Dodge, Edited by Rosie McCaffrey, Illustrated by Irina Beliakova, Jessica Lamson, Libby Sharp, Francesca Scillia (Wizard Supply Co.)
• the god neighbor, by Charlie Lemay, Edited by Lori Pond, Illustrated by Charlie Lemay (Lemay Design)
• The Hawk's Flight: Book Two of the Three Brothers Trilogy, by Elizabeth R. Jensen (Gryphon Publishing)

BEST OVERALL DESIGN (FICTION) (PRINT BOOK SUBMITTED FOR JUDGING)

WINNERS ($100): TIE

• The Adventures of Blue Ocean Bob - A Secret in the Deep, by Brooks Olbrys, Edited by Emma Walton Hamilton, Illustrated by Kevin Keele; Other Contributors: Greenleaf Book Group (Children's Success Unlimited LLC)
• Yeti Needs A Haircut, by Angela Halgrimson, Illustrated by Brian Barber (Beaver's Pond Press)

FINALISTS:

• Blink, Blink, Blink in Sync: Silent Fireworks, by Sharon CassanoLochman, Illustrated by Pearly Lim (Ontario Shore Publishing LLC)
• Desert Friends (Travels with the Pack), by Linda Harkey, Illustrated by Mike Minick (Archway Publishing)
• Dungeon Jest: The Ruby of Power, by Andrew Snook, Edited by Rosanne Lake, Nicole North, Illustrated by Jeff Fowler, Corey King (Inker); Other Contributors: Cam Bradley (Project Manager) (Friesen Press)
• Flock Without Birds, by Filip Dousek (Toito Publishing)
• The Stash, by Sandra Sperling (Kindle Direct Publishing)

BEST OVERALL DESIGN (NON-FICTION) (DIGITALLY SUBMITTED FOR JUDGING)

WINNER ($100):

• I Just Can't Make This Sh!t Up: Overcoming Fear & Accepting My Spiritual Gifts, by Alejandra G. Brady, Edited by Jennifer Jas, Alexandra O'Connell; Other Contributors: Book Design - Michelle M. White; Publishing Production & Consulting - Susie Schaefer (Life. Styled. Books.)

FINALISTS:

• A Mulatto Slave, the Events in the Life of Peter Hunt, 1844-1915, by Denise I. Griggs, Illustrated by Jenneth Dyck (Cover Designer) (Blue Eclipse Publishing)
• Allegory - How One Man's Lies, Deceit, Arrogance and Greed Has Gaslighted The World, by Michael Solomon (Book Locker)
• Children's Firearms & Safety Fundamentals: A Guide for Families, Parents, Instructors and Gun Owners, by Beth Alcazar, Edited by Carla Dickmann and Frank Jastrzembski, Illustrated by Jason Braun; Other Contributors: Kelly Welke - Designer (Delta Defense, LLC)
• Finding Home: A Path to Emotional Stability and Self Healing (2nd Edition), by Mahnaz Jahangiri; Other Contributors: Book Design - Michelle M. White; Publishing Production & Consulting - Susie Schaefer: Photography - Heirlume Photography (Samadi Yoga)
• I See Your Genius: Transform Your Idea into Income, by Shelby Jo Long, Edited by Jennifer Jas, Illustrated by Michelle M. White; Other Contributors: Book Design - Michelle M. White; Publishing Production & Consulting - Susie Schaefer (Expertise Press)

BEST OVERALL DESIGN (NON-FICTION) (PRINT BOOK SUBMITTED FOR JUDGING)

WINNER ($100):

• Lush Life: Food & Drinks from the Garden, by Valerie Rice, Edited by Amanda Chiu (Prospect Park Books)

FINALISTS:

• Breath Is Life Taking IN and Letting GO: How to Live Well, Love Well, BE Well, by Laurie Ellis-Young with George T. Ellis PsyD, Edited by Marly Cornell (Content & Substantive Editor) & Mary Rains (Conceptual & Developmental Editor); Other Contributors: Book Cover Design: Kathi Dunn, Dunn+Design.com; Interior Design & Back Cover by Dorie McClelland, springbookdesign.com; Production coordination and photography management by Nancy Chakrin; All photos by Laurie Ellis-Young & others as noted; Hot-Air Balloon illustration by Sheryl VanderPol; Back Cover Author photo by Jeffrey Hunsberger (Breathe The Change Press)
• Dewees Cochran: The Artist and Her Dolls, by Ann M Leis (Redwood Publishing, LLC)
• Heavenly Headbutts: Reflections of Hope about Cats and Eternity, by Allia Zobel Nolan; Other Contributors: Mary Pat Pino (Interior and Cover Designer) (Allia Writes)
• Lechuguilla Cave: Discoveries in a Hidden Splendor, by Max Wisshak & Hazel A. Barton (Editors), Edited by Max Wisshak & Hazel A. Barton, Illustrated by Multiple Photographers; Other Contributors: Multiple Contributors (speleo-photo editions)
• Mastering Classic Cocktails: Recipes and Techniques for the Home Bartender, by C. Townsend Brady; Other Contributors: Rod Searcey (Photography), Diana Russell Piazza (Book Designer) (Palo Alto Publishing)
• The Gift of Green Time: 50 Ways for Families to Disconnect (and Reconnect) Outdoors - Lake Minnetonka, by Beverly Gillen, Edited by Stephanie Lancour; Other Contributors: Megan C. Rosvold (Graphic Designer) (Partners in Parenting Consulting LLC)

BIPOC (BLACK, INDIGENOUS AND/OR PERSONS OF COLOR)

WINNERS ($100): TIE

• Children Who Dance in the Rain, by Susan Justice, Edited by Brooke Vitale, Jennifer Rees, Sirah Jarocki, Illustrated by Lena Bardy (Compassion Project Press)
• Syrup Sandwiches: Choose Not to Give Up, by Anthony Owens (Anchor Book Press)

FINALISTS:

• A Year of Moons, by Joseph Bruchac (Fulcrum Publishing)
• Rez Dog Blues & The Haiku: A Savage Life in Bits and Pieces - A Novel by William George Lindsay, by William George Lindsay (William George Lindsay)
• Send Her Back and Other Stories, by Munashe Kaseke (Mukana Press)
• Something Old, Something New, in Uganda! by Catherine Kreutter, Illustrated by Andrew Jackson Obol (Old Mzee Books, Uganda)
• SOULFUL RETURN, by FIDELIS O. MKPARU (DX VAROS PUBLISHER)

BUSINESS

WINNERS ($100): TIE

• Make Your Kids Millionaires: The Step-by-Step Guide to Lead Children to Financial Freedom, by Loral Langemeier (McGraw Hill)
• The Human Team: So, You Created A Team But People Showed Up! by Jeanet Wade (ForbesBooks)

FINALISTS:

• Concepts and Dialogues across Shifting Spaces in Intercultural Business, by Clara Sarmento, Edited by Clara Sarmento (Cambridge Scholars Publishing)
• Customer Escalations Management: The Golden Recipe, by Nikolaos Zormpas (Self-Published)
• Greatness is NOWHERE: Three Principles to Jazz up Your Culture, Pep up Your People, and Spice up Your Customer Experience, by Melkart Rouhana, Illustrated by Léopoldine Vittori; Other Contributors: Xavier Comas (Cover Design) (MRT Books)
• The Non-Obvious Guide to Better Presentations: How to Present Like a Pro (Virtually or in Person) (Non-Obvious Guides), by Jacqueline Farrington (Author), Rohit Bhargava (Foreword), Edited by Andrea Driessen, Illustrated by Dan T. Walsh (Idea Press Publishing)
• Using Behavioral Science in Marketing: Drive Customer Action and Loyalty by Prompting Instinctive Responses, by Nancy Harhut (Kogan Page)

CAREER

WINNER ($100):

• Remote Work for Military Spouses: Find and Grow Your Meaningful Mobile Career, by Laura Briggs (Elva Resa Publishing)

FINALISTS:

• Clarity to Make Your Mark - 12 steps to discovering your vision, being your best self, and leaving a legacy, by Jessica Ritchie, Edited by Anne-Marie Tripp; Other Contributors: Indie Experts (Jessica Ritchie)
• FIRED! Protect Your Rights & FIGHT BACK If You're Terminated, Laid Off, Downsized, Restructured, Forced to Resign or Quit, by Steven Mitchell Sack (LEGAL STRATEGIES PUBLICATIONS)
• Instincts of a Talent Agent: Entrepreneurial Takeaways, by Marc Guss (Cypress House)
• Ready, Set, Coach! Build a Thriving Coaching Business Fast, by Kristin A. Sherry & Judith C. Spear, Edited by Mary Ellen Bramwell (Black Rose Writing)
• Success From Anywhere: Create Your Own Future of Work from the Inside Out, by Karen Mangia (Wiley)
• The Success Factor: Developing the Mindset and Skillset for Peak Business Performance, by Ruth Gotian (Kogan Page)
• Young Gun: The A-Z Guide for Ambitious Constructors to Stand Out and Succeed, by Elinor Moshe (KMD Books)

CHICK LIT (FICTION)

WINNER ($100):

• The Tea Drinker's Guide to Adventure, by Andrée Jannette (Self-Published)

FINALISTS:

• The Art of Traveling Strangers, by Zoe Disigny (Subplot Publishing (imprint of Amplify Publishing Group))
• The Fire She Fights, by Tracy Moore, Edited by Kellie Hultgren (Wise Ink)
• The Visitor, by C. D'Angelo (Self-Published)
• Unexpected Guests at Blackbird Lodge: A Novel, by Joyce Hicks, Illustrated by Melissa Washburn (Encore Books)
• What's Not Lost, by Valerie Taylor (Aspetuck Publishing)

CHILDREN'S EDUCATIONAL PICTURE BOOK (6 YEARS AND UP)

WINNER ($100):

• Daphne's Bees, by Catherine Dempsey, Illustrated by Veselina Tomova (Running the Goat, Books & Broadsides)

FINALISTS:

• Imhotep of Ancient Kemet, by Ekiuwa Aire, Edited by Mary Blake, Liz Tichelaar, Shamontiel Vaughn, and Brooke Vitale, Illustrated by Simbarashe Langton Vera and Anastasia Kyrpenko (Our Ancestories)
• Nature's Apprentices: The Magic of the Peatlands, by Elizabeth Bekolay, Illustrated by Jennifer Becker (Your Nickel's Worth Publishing)
• nimosôm anima--nimihšōmihš ta-minciwēnciman: Grandfather's Reminder, by Alberta-Rose Bear, Kathleen O'Reilly, Illustrated by Lindsey Bear; Other Contributors: Solomon Ratt, Lorena Cote, Margaret Cote, Andrew Miller (Your Nickel's Worth Publishing)
• Rangeela Bhaarat (Colorful India): A bilingual, Hindi book about colors! by Neha Nabar, Illustrated by Neha Nabar (Amazon KDP)
• Sik-Sik's Summer: An Arctic Ground Squirrel's Tale, by Constance Taylor & Wendy Kenny, Illustrated by Constance Taylor (Fathom Publishing)
• The Possible Lives of WH, Sailor, by Bushra Junaid (Running the Goat, Books & Broadsides)

CHILDREN'S PICTURE BOOK (0-5 YEARS)

WINNERS ($100): TIE

• My Travel Alphabet: 26 Magical Places on Earth, by AK Ratti, Illustrated by Claudie C. Bergeron (Rattling Press)
• Remember This Always, by Anna Ikeda, Illustrated by Andrée Young (Person Power Press)

FINALISTS:

• Dinos in Space, by Ashley Matthews, Illustrated by Agnes Saccani (Kidsbooks Publishing)
• Dolly's Birthday in Rainbow Colors, by Kris Benny (Amazon KDP)
• I Am, by Enya Krieg, Illustrated by Nataliia Babii (Visser Ventures LLC)
• If I Was Born in..., by Sachiko Otohata, Illustrated by Sachiko Otohata (Self-Published)
• Pauly & Fluff's Day at the Beach, by Sara Madden and Calie Helsten, Edited by Tyler Vogelsberg, Illustrated by Hayley Helsten (KDP Amazon)
• Sukkah-Doodle-Doo! A Holiday to Crow About, by Margie Blumberg, Edited by Emma Walton Hamilton, Anne Himmelfarb, Illustrated by Tammie Lyon (MB Publishing)
• Trucks at First Sight, by Martha Jaworowski, Edited by Laura Bontje, Illustrated by Martha Jaworowski (Deliciosa Press, LLC)

CHILDREN'S PICTURE BOOK (NON-FICTION) (ALL AGES)

WINNER ($100):

• HIDDEN LIFE OF THE DESERT, And Our Future in the Drying Southwest, by Thomas Wiewandt; Other Contributors: Photography by Thomas Wiewandt, unless otherwise indicated in caption (Published by Wild Horizons Publishing, Inc. and Mountain Press Publishing Co.)

FINALISTS:

• Anjali the Brave: All about Vaccines, by Adjoa Smalls-Mantey, Maria Abraham, Illustrated by Paul Buste (Indies United Publishing House)
• Kids Play at the White House! by Jonathan Pliska, Illustrated by John Hutton (The White House Historical Association)
• Let Me, by Tricia Sybersma, Illustrated by Rachel Rossano (Tricia Sybersma)
• Meet Me At Our Tree, Pachamama Shares Her Amazon Rainforest, by Sister Judy Bisignano and Sandra C. Morse, Illustrated by Cláudia Gadotti (Maketai, Inc.)
• We Are Family, by Lucy Reynolds, Edited by Emily Sharratt, Illustrated by Jenna Herman; Other Contributors: Beth Cox (Doodles & Scribbles)

CHILDREN'S PICTURE BOOK #OWNVOICES

WINNER ($100):

• nimosôm anima--nimihšōmihš ta-minciwēnciman: Grandfather's Reminder, by Alberta-Rose Bear, Kathleen O'Reilly, Illustrated by Lindsey Bear; Other Contributors: Solomon Ratt, Lorena Cote, Margaret Cote, Andrew Miller (Your Nickel's Worth Publishing)

FINALISTS:

• Mykal the Monkey is a Super Youneek Beast, by Beth Davis, Illustrated by Beth Davis (Amazon & IngramSpark)
• Nothing Special, by Desiree Cooper, Illustrated by Bec Sloane (Wayne State University Press)
• Panda the Project Manager Builds Her First Home, by Amanda G Jewell, Illustrated by Roksolana Panchyshyn (Self-Published)
• POCKETS, by Janet Johnson Anderson, Illustrated by Janet Johnson Anderson (Nightingale Books)
• Something Old, Something New, in Uganda! by Catherine Kreutter, Illustrated by Andrew Jackson Obol (Old Mzee Books, Uganda)

CHILDREN'S PICTURE BOOK ILLUSTRATION (BEST ILLUSTRATOR) (0-6 YEARS)

WINNER ($100):

• Lola's Woolly Jumper, by Samantha Van De Kerckhove, Illustrated by Samantha Van De Kerckhove (Your Nickel's Worth Publishing)

FINALISTS:

• A Silly Willy Christmas, by Brenda Redman, Illustrated by Wendi Nordell (Your Nickel's Worth Publishing)
• My Travel Alphabet: 26 Magical Places on Earth, by AK Ratti, Illustrated by Claudie C. Bergeron (Rattling Press)
• Nature Parade, by Nikki Samuels, Illustrated by Martina Heiduczek (Tiny Twigs Press)
• On My Papa's Shoulders, by Niki Daly, Illustrated by Niki Daly (Catalyst Press)
• Remember This Always, by Anna Ikeda, Illustrated by Andrée Young (Person Power Press)

CHILDREN'S PICTURE BOOK ILLUSTRATION (BEST ILLUSTRATOR) (5 YEARS & UP)

WINNER ($100):

• Alex the Wonder Lamb, by Carla Crane Osborne, Edited by Megan Terry, Illustrated by Michael Crane (Gona Publishing)

FINALISTS:

• FINDING GEORGE-Book One - Adventures On Apple Orchard Farm, by Joan Enockson, Illustrated by Abra Shirley (Tall Girl Publishing, LLC.)
• Lola Flies Alone, by Bill Richardson, Illustrated by Bill Pechet (Running the Goat, Books & Broadsides)
• Meet Me At Our Tree, Pachamama Shares Her Amazon Rainforest, by Sister Judy Bisignano and Sandra C. Morse, Illustrated by Cláudia Gadotti (Maketai, Inc.)
• My Name is Saajin Singh, by Kuljinder Kaur Brar, Illustrated by Samrath Kaur (Annick Press)
• The Wolf Suit, by Sid Sharp, Illustrated by Sid Sharp (Annick Press)

CHILDREN'S/JUVENILE (FICTION)

WINNER ($100):

• Wish Upon a Crawdad, by Curtis W. Condon (Heart of Oak Books)

FINALISTS:

• Catching Air, by Gina Moore, Illustrated by Lauren Zurcher (Spring Cedars)
• Elephant and Bird, by Sally Hinkley, Edited by Dave Pasquantonio, Illustrated by Sally Hinkley (Cover Art) (Gold Clover Books)
• Freakshow Summer, by Anthony Bartley, Illustrated by Ian Bristow (Kinkajou Press)
• Simone LaFray and the Red Wolves of London, by S.P. O'Farrell, Edited by Erin Harpst (Brandylane Publishers, Inc.)
• The Last Green Dragon, by Rud Verhagen (Your Nickel's Worth Publishing)

CHILDREN'S/JUVENILE (NON-FICTION)

WINNER ($100):

• Faith, Fables, Fooey!, by E.B. Robaire, Illustrated by Camille Davies (Island Soul Publishing)

FINALISTS:

• A Wonderful Bigness, by Diana Daly, Illustrated by Bruce Alcock (Running the Goat, Books & Broadsides)
• Higher Faster Longer: Wally Funk, Aviator Extraordinaire, by Janet Ivey-Duensing, Loretta Hall, Illustrated by Katie Grayson (Janet's Planet, Inc.)
• Nyla's New Shoes, by Caitlin Nickel, Illustrated by Vivien Sarkany (Peace Publishers (formerly Blanketfort Academy - Caitlin Nickel))
• The Ace Compeers: The Mystery of Race, by Rita Bhandari, Illustrated by Indra Audipriatna (Friesen Press)
• Trauma Recovery Workbook for Teens, by Deborah Vinall, PsyD, LMFT, Edited by Kayla Park, Grace Jeong; Other Contributors: Carlos Esparza (Interior and Cover Designer), Melissa Malinowsky (Art Producer), Caroline Flanagan (Production Editor), Holly Haydash (Production Manager) (Rockridge Press)

CHILDREN'S/JUVENILE EARLY READERS/CHAPTER BOOKS (FICTION)

WINNERS ($100): TIE

• Florida Heritage Kids Adventures from Spanish Settlement to the Modern Era, by George S. LeMieux and Laura E. Mize, Edited by Jon Van Zile, Illustrated by Bonnie Lallky-Seibert (Middle River Press)
• Lola Flies Alone, by Bill Richardson, Illustrated by Bill Pechet (Running the Goat, Books & Broadsides)

FINALISTS:

• Asha and Baz Meet Mary Sherman Morgan, by Caroline Fernandez, Edited by Emily Stewart, Illustrated by Dharmali Patel (Common Deer Press)
• Autumn's Turn, by Kathleen Rogers, Illustrated by Octavian Fitzherbert (Libri Publishing Ltd)
• Buddy: A Farm in the Forest Story, by Jena Wagmann, Illustrated by Alana Hyrtle (Your Nickel's Worth Publishing)
• Lemonade Lilli, by Joan Enockson, Illustrated by Jennifer Hansen (Joan Enockson DBA Tall Girl Publishing)
• TAPETI - The Moon's Keeper, by Billie Holladay Skelley, Illustrated by Carlos Lemos (Kids Book Press)
• Tavey's First Hunt, by Daniel Boyd, Illustrated by Hector Mexia (Headline Books)
• The Colors Jesse Sees, by Bob Bartel, Illustrated by Chad Thompson (Friesen Press)

CHRISTIAN (FICTION)

WINNERS ($100): TIE

• A Sacred Duty: An FBI Yellowstone Adventure, by Rhona Weaver (Two Oaks Press)
• Addy of the Door Islands, by Judy DuCharme, Edited by Katie Smith (Ambassador International)

FINALISTS:

• Celey, by Susan Diane Black Blackmon (Susan Diane Black Blackmon UNITED STATES)
• Emma, by Susan Diane Black Blackmon (Susan Diane Black Blackmon UNITED STATES)
• Once I Knew, by Victoria Lynn, Edited by Micaiah Keough, Illustrated by A.L. Buehrer (Glory Writers Press)
• Rachel's Reunion, by Susan G Mathis (SM WordWorks, LLC)
• The Call of Jeremiah McGill, by Joseph Moore (Gatekeeper Press)
• The Persistent Road, by Tim Bishop, Edited by Christina Boys, Natalie Hanemann, John David Kudrick; Other Contributors: Cover by Micah Kandros (Open Road Press)

CHRISTIAN (NON-FICTION)

WINNER ($100):

• My Voice, His Heart: Experiencing Prayer In God's Will, by Cathy Endebrock, Illustrated by Suzi Kramer (Tranquility Press)

FINALISTS:

• Bridge of Miracles: There Is No Impossible in Life, by Heidi Tucker, Edited by Kathy Jenkins Oveson - Copy Editor; Other Contributors: Dennis Powers - Book Design (Redstone Media)
• Broken Little Believer: Finding Purpose in All the Pretty Painful Pieces, by Shane Svorec, Edited by Jill Armijo, Illustrated by Difrats (AAE)
• He Heard Hannah: The 911 Call That Saved the Dispatcher's Life, by Lynnette Kraft, Courtney Becker (New Wrinkle Pulses)
• Jesus Has Left The Building: The Nitty-Gritty of Creative Church Outreach, by Toni Campbell (Pageant Wagon Publishing)
• Thirsty: Reflections on Thirst as a Means of Grace, by Rhoda Preston (Rhoda Preston)

COFFEE TABLE BOOK/PHOTOGRAPHY

WINNER ($100):

• Waterfowl of the World, by Gary Kramer; Other Contributors: John Gregory Mensik (Gary Kramer)

FINALISTS:

• 125th Street Photography In Harlem, Edited by Maria Antonella Pelizzari, Arden Sherman (Hirmer Publishers)
• A Field Guide to Sheaffer's Pencils, by Jonathan A. Veley (Self-Published)
• Dancing for Our Tribe: Potawatomi Tradition in the New Millennium, by Sharon Hoogstraten, Edited by Readers: Drs. Alaka Wali, Robin Wall Kimmerer, Kelli Mosteller; Other Contributors: Photography by Sharon Hoogstraten, Line Drawings by Penny Coates (Shikaakwa Press)
• Lechuguilla Cave: Discoveries in a Hidden Splendor, by Max Wisshak & Hazel A. Barton (Editors), Edited by Max Wisshak & Hazel A. Barton, Illustrated by Multiple Photographers; Other Contributors: Multiple Contributors (speleo-photo editions)
• TRAVELS ACROSS THE ROOF OF THE WORLD: A HIMALAYAN MEMOIR, by William & Anne Frej; Other Contributors: Joanna Hurley, Project Manager; David Skolkin, Book Designer (George F. Thompson Publishing)

COVID-19 PANDEMIC

WINNERS ($100): TIE

• Captured by COVID, Deceit, Conspiracy & Death - A True Story, by Michael E. Bowers (Luminare Press)
• The Pandemic Portraits by Nicholas Hill, by Janice Glowski, Illustrated by Nicholas Hill; Other Contributors: Terry Hermsen (Poet), Jacob Strous (Designer) (The Frank Museum of Art)

FINALISTS:

• An Update of SARS-CoV-2: Damage-Response Framework, Potential Therapeutic Avenues and the Impact of Nanotechnology on COVID-19 Therapy, by Anitha Sriram, Edited by Anitha Sriram , Dr. Pankaj Kumar Singh, Dr. Shashi Bala Singh and Dr. Dharmendra Kumar Khatri (Bentham Sciences)
• Both Things Are True: A Journey from Fearing Trust to Trusting Fear, by Janine Valentine (Cairn Publishers LLC)
• Life on the Grocery Line: A Frontline Experience in a Global Pandemic, by Adam Jonathan Kaat (Inspired Forever Books)
• Success From Anywhere: Create Your Own Future of Work from the Inside Out, by Karen Mangia (Wiley)
• Walking The Tightrope - Trusting Your Life To Telemedicine (Lessons From Early In The COVID-19 Pandemic), by Wayne D. Liebhard, M.D., Edited by Liz Trupin-Pulli; Other Contributors: Cover Design: Sammi Griffin (Alethos Press (St.Paul, Mn.))

CURRENT EVENTS

WINNER ($100):

• The Greatest Cause of Mia Dubois, by Chris Casavant (SDP Publishing)

FINALISTS:

• Highway Heist: America's Crumbling Infrastructure and the Road Forward, by James T. Bennett (Independent Institute)
• Indoctrinated: How The Conventional Education System Perpetuates Conformity, Mediocrity & Indistinguishability, by Ron Malhotra (KMD Books)
• Intimate Inequalities: Millennials' Romantic Relationships in Contemporary Times, by Cristen Dalessandro (Rutgers University Press)
• Poorly Understood: What America Gets Wrong About Poverty, by Mark Robert Rank, Lawrence M. Eppard, and Heather E. Bullock (Oxford University Press)
• The Future Normal: How We Will Live, Work and Thrive in the Next Decade, by Rohit Bhargava, Henry Coutinho-Mason, Edited by Genoveva Llohsa (Ideapress Publishing)

E-BOOK (FICTION)

WINNER ($100):

• Times End, by R. Prior (Amazon)

FINALISTS:

• An Element of Mystery: Sweet, Funny, and Strange Tales of Intrigue, by Multiple Authors, Edited by Marianne H. Donley and Carol L. Wright (Bethlehem Writers Group, LLC)
• Dry Heat, by Len Joy (BQB Publishing)
• No Good Deed, by Phil M. Williams (Phil W. Books)
• Owl in the Oak Tree, by Penny Walker Veraar (GG Publishing)
• Royal Planet, by ChristinaJ, Illustrated by ChristinaJ (Royal Planet)
• The Dilemma, by Sarah Hawthorn; Other Contributors: Project Manager: Tara Lyons. Cover Design: Betsy Reavley. Marketing and Publicity: Hannah Deuce (Bloodhound Books)
• The Historian Project: A Time Travel Catastrophe, by Nell Gavin (Self-Published - imprint Book and Quill Press)

E-BOOK (NON-FICTION)

WINNER ($100):

• Social Media, Social Justice and the Political Economy of Online Networks, by Jeffrey Layne Blevins, James Jaehoon Lee (University of Cincinnati Press)

FINALISTS:

• Cuba, your children cry! Cuba, tus hijos lloran! by Otto H. Iglesias (Book Baby)
• I Can See for Miles: Overcoming the Past and Running to My Future, by Hollie Stuart, Edited by Kristen Hamilton (Marathon Publishing Co.)
• Salmon in the Seine: Alaskan Memories of Life, Death, & Everything In-Between, by Norris Comer (Milspeak Books)
• Speaking Out: Families of LGTBQ+ Advance the Dialogue, Edited by Esther Schwartz-McKinzie (Gival Press)
• What Does This Company Do?: Understanding a Business and its Risks, by Drago Dimitrov (Drago Dimitrov (Self-Published))
• Why Don't They Cry?: Understanding Your Living Child's Grief, by Zander Sprague LPCC (Paradiso Press)

EDUCATION/ACADEMIC (NON-FICTION)

WINNER ($100):

• The Accidental Reef and Other Ecological Odysseys in the Great Lakes, by Lynne Heasley, Illustrated by Glenn Wolff (Michigan State University Press)

FINALISTS:

• Paddling Pathways: Reflections from a Changing Landscape, Edited by Bob Henderson and Sean Blenkinsop (Your Nickel's Worth Publishing)
• Re-Visioning Change: Case Studies of Curriculum in School Systems in the Commonwealth Caribbean, by Zellynne Jennings (The University of the West Indies Press)
• Reexamining the Federal Role in Higher Education: Politics and Policymaking in the Postsecondary Sector, by Rebecca S. Natow (Teachers College Press)
• Ten Things Your Student with Autism Wishes You Knew, by Ellen Notbohm (Future Horizons, Inc.)
• The Rise and Fall of Muslim Civilization, Hope for the Future, by Dr. M. Basheer Ahmed (Mary Ethel Eckard)

FANTASY

WINNER ($100):

• The Necromancer's Daughter, by D. Wallace Peach, Edited by Anneli Purchase (D. Wallace Peach)

FINALISTS:

• A King's Radiance, by L. R. Schulz (Luke Schulz)
• Beginning of Arrogance, by Bryan Cole (Tellwell Publishing)
• Dungeon Jest: The Ruby of Power, by Andrew Snook, Edited by Rosanne Lake, Nicole North, Illustrated by Jeff Fowler, Corey King (Inker); Other Contributors: Cam Bradley (Project Manager) (Friesen Press)
• Oracle of Life: The Lords' Gambit Series Volume One, by Katherine D. Graham, Edited by Sam Everard; Other Contributors: Michael Davie (Interior Formatting), Jesh Art Studio Group (Cover Art/Design) (Katherine D. Graham (Self-Published))
• Under the Earth, Over the Sky, by Emily McCosh, Illustrated by Emily McCosh (Oceans in the Sky Press)

FIRST NOVEL (40,000 TO 70,000 WORDS)

WINNERS ($100): TIE

• Big Girl, by Mecca Jamilah Sullivan (Liveright Publishing)
• The Memory of Cotton, by Ann K. Howley (Propertius Press)

FINALISTS:

• Emerald Greed, by Brian Ray Brewer (Self-Published)
• Ruin: A Novel of Flyfishing in Bankruptcy, by Leigh Seippel (City Point Press)
• The Glass Tree, by Michael J. Manz (Endicott Street Press)
• The Reaper's Quota, by Sarah McKnight (Sarah McKnight)
• Travelers, by Donald Altman (Roundfire Books)
• Waiting To Rise, by Gino Siniscalchi (Self-Published)
• Wish Upon a Crawdad, by Curtis W. Condon (Heart of Oak Books)

FIRST NOVEL (70,000 TO 90,000 WORDS)

WINNER ($100):

• Linney Stepp, by Diane Gilliam (Saddle Road Press)

FINALISTS:

• Aloha Vietnam, by Elizabeth Nguyen, MD (Unbound Press)
• California Sister, by Gloria Mattioni, Edited by David Francis, Megan Turner (Atmosphere Press)
• For the Minds and Wills of Men, by Jeff Lanier (Boyle & Dalton)
• Murder by Manuscript, by Susan D. Steiner; Other Contributors: Elaine Blurton, Jillian Houghton (Amazon)
• Thank You, Mr. Emerson, by Gerald Berns (Self-Published)
• The Baba Yaga Mask, by Kris Spisak, Illustrated by Wyatt Cleary (Wyatt-MacKenzie)
• The Chinese Woman from the Painting, by Florence Tholozan; Other Contributors: Translator: N. Theo (Harvard Square Editions)

FIRST NOVEL (OVER 90,000 WORDS)

WINNER ($100):

• Furnace Creek, by Joseph Allen Boone (Eyewear)

FINALISTS:

• A Dream of Shadows, by Peter Eliott (Further Press)
• A History of Silence, by Cynthia J. Bogard (Atmosphere Press)
• Counting Souls, by Donald R Buchanan, Edited by Michael Shuler (Ingram Spark)
• Good for a Single Journey, by Helen Joyce (Amsterdam Publishers)
• On the Wings of a Hummingbird: A Novel, by Susan Mills (Apprentice House of Loyola University)
• Rez Dog Blues & The Haiku: A Savage Life in Bits and Pieces - A Novel by William George Lindsay, by William George Lindsay (William George Lindsay)
• The Honeybee Emeralds, by Amy Tector (Turner)

FIRST NOVEL (UNDER 50,000 WORDS)

WINNER ($100):

• The Carpenter and The Goat Herder, by Merlin Goldman, Edited by Craig Simpson, Illustrated by Merlin Goldman; Other Contributors: Joanna Peios (Magnetical)

FINALISTS:

• Elephant and Bird, by Sally Hinkley, Edited by Dave Pasquantonio, Illustrated by Sally Hinkley (Cover Art) (Gold Clover Books)
• Escape to Butterfly Ave, by Max Evans (Long Beach Writer)
• Never a Mere Mortal, by Devon Dial (Devon Dial)
• RUAPEHU: A NOVEL OF NEW ZEALAND, by Jesse Reiss, Edited by Heather Rivera, Illustrated by Andreea Schmidt (KDP)
• Still Waters, by Jenna Caldwell (New Degree Press)

GENERAL FICTION/NOVEL (70,000 TO 100,000 WORDS)

WINNERS ($100): TIE

• Linney Stepp, by Diane Gilliam (Saddle Road Press)
• The Walled Garden: A Novel, by Robin Farrar Maass (SparkPress)

FINALISTS:

• After Everyone Else, by Leslie Hooton (Turner Publishing)
• BECAUSE I LOVED YOU, A Novel, by Donnaldson Brown (She Writes Press)
• Blind Woman's Buff, by Reinhard Tenberg, Edited by Nikky Twyman, Illustrated by Steve Edwards (YOUCAXTON)
• Come By Here, by Barbara E. Bull (Cherry Point Publishing)
• Saving Thomas, by Scott Kauffman (The Wild Rose Press)
• The Chambers of My Heart ~ Venice, Paris and New York ~, by Albert Russo (Edition l'Aleph -- www.l-aleph.com © 2022 Wisehouse Publishing | Sweden)

GENERAL FICTION/NOVEL (OVER 100,000 WORDS)

WINNERS ($100): TIE

• Haunt: A Novel, by Christina Maraziotis, Edited by Lee Browning Ezell (Existential Publishing)
• Oliver's Travels, by Clifford Garstang (Regal House Publishing)

FINALISTS:

• Boulder Girl: Bad Moon Rising, by Cynthia L. Clark, Edited by Tadpole Press (Outskirts Press)
• Eli's Redemption, by Paul Attaway, Edited by David Aretha, Jonah Dorris (Linksland Publishing)
• Forbidden Treasure Sons of Mil: Ethan Jameson, by Nancy Brooks (Nancy Brooks)
• God's Ponzi, by Robert Buschel (Black Rose Writing)
• Stars in Their Infancy: A Novel, by Marleen Pasch, Edited by Haley Hampton; Other Contributors: Chris Kuell (Penelope Love--Citrine Publishing)
• Ways the World Could End, by Kim Hooper (Turner Publishing)
• Witness to the Crucifixion, by David Benjamin (Last Kid Books)

GENERAL FICTION/NOVEL (UNDER 70,000 WORDS)

WINNER ($100):

• The Face of God, by Brian Ray Brewer (Self-Published)

FINALISTS:

• A Recycled Marriage, by Rosemary Mairs (Cinnamon Press)
• Daria's Secrets, by Jeff Ingber (Atmosphere Press)
• Into the Attic, by Ellen Sherman (Koehler Books)
• Revelation: A Novel, by Gary McCarragher, Edited by Cath Lauria; Gina Sartirana (SDP Publishing)
• Season of Reckoning, by L. Lee Shaw (Boho Books)
• Travelers, by Donald Altman (Roundfire Books)

GENERAL NON-FICTION

WINNERS ($100): TIE

• A Field Guide to Sheaffer's Pencils, by Jonathan A. Veley (Self-Published)
• It's Not About the Mangos - Organizational Success Means Putting People First, by Kent Coleman (TireGuyPress)

FINALISTS:

• A Second Helping: Whining and Dining on Long Island, by Thomas Schaudel (iuniverse)
• Hidden Cargoes, by Chris Arthur (EastOver Press)
• House Poor No More: 9 Steps that Grow the Value of Your Home and Net Worth, by Romana King (Houndstooth Press)
• Moments In Time - Stories About Artists And Songs Of The 50s, 60s, And 70s. For Fans Of Music ... From A Music Fan, by Tom Locke, Edited by Trevor McMonagle, Illustrated by Kristy Twellmann Hill (Self-Published - The Self Publishing Agency)
• Muslim Mechanics, The View from Behind the Curtain, by Charles H Brewton (John Hunt Publishing)

GIFT

WINNER ($100):

• THE ART OF BEING ALIVE - introspective wisdom on living a more vibrant life, by Suzette McIntyre, Illustrated by Suzette McIntyre (IngramSpark)

FINALISTS:

• Daily Doubles 2 - Celebrity Impersonators, by C.J. Morgan, Jack Bullard (Top Ten Productions)
• Let Me, by Tricia Sybersma, Illustrated by Rachel Rossano (Tricia Sybersma)
• Mastering Classic Cocktails: Recipes and Techniques for the Home Bartender, by C. Townsend Brady; Other Contributors: Rod Searcey (Photography), Diana Russell Piazza (Book Designer) (Palo Alto Publishing)
• Rabbit at the Sliding Door: Chloe's Story, by Denise Lee Branco (Strolling Hills Publishing, LLC)
• The Gift of Green Time: 50 Ways for Families to Disconnect (and Reconnect) Outdoors - Lake Minnetonka, by Beverly Gillen, Edited by Stephanie Lancour; Other Contributors: Megan C. Rosvold (Graphic Designer) (Partners in Parenting Consulting LLC)

HEALTH/WELLNESS (NON-FICTION)

WINNER ($100):

• Sidelined: How Women Manage and Mismanage Their Health, by Susan Salenger, Edited by Nan Wiener (She Writes Press)

FINALISTS:

• Asahi - The Nordic Health Practice, by Ilpo Jalamo, Yrjö Mähönen, Edited by Risto Lehto; Other Contributors: AD-Layout & Co-author Risto Lehto, Translator Margaret Vainio (Nordic Health Institute Ltd)
• Brain Energy: A Revolutionary Breakthrough in Understanding Mental Health--and Improving Treatment for Anxiety, Depression, OCD, PTSD, and More, by CHRISTOPHER M PALMER, MD, Edited by Alexa Stevenson and Greg Brown (BenBella)
• HAIR LOSS: Options for Restoration & Reversal 2nd Edition, by Gustavo J. Gomez, Ph.D. (Halo Publishing International)
• MOONLIGHT SERENADE: Embracing Aging Mindfully, by Gordon Wallace, Ph.D. (Friesen Press)
• Simplify Your Health: A Doctor's Practical Guide to a Healthier Life, by Lucas Ramirez (Black Rose Writing)

HISTORICAL (FICTION) (PRE 1900'S)

WINNER ($100):

• The Substance of Things Hoped For, by Tom Noyes (Slant Books)

FINALISTS:

• Hardland, by Ashley E. Sweeney (She Writes Press)
• If Someday Comes - A Slave's Tale of Freedom, by David Calloway (Self-Published - Point Fermin Publishing)
• Justice Delayed, Justice Denied: A Ming Dynasty Mystery, by P.A. De Voe (Drum Tower Press, LLC)
• Rapiers & Rogues, by Terry Kroenung (Rare Moon Press)
• She Who Rides Horses: A Saga of the Ancient Steppe (Book One), by Sarah V. Barnes, Edited by Page Lambert (Lilith House Press)

HISTORICAL (FICTION) (1900'S)

WINNER ($100):

• Operation Blackbird: A Cold War Spy Novel, by Ellen Butler, Edited by Emily Junker (Power to the Pen)

FINALISTS:

• Crippled Jack, by Boston Teran, Edited by Janice Hussein (High Top Publishing)
• For the Minds and Wills of Men, by Jeff Lanier (Boyle & Dalton)
• Linney Stepp, by Diane Gilliam (Saddle Road Press)
• Sidetrack Key, by Jessica Argyle, Edited by Alyssa Matesic; Other Contributors: Sean MacGuire cover design and typesetting (MacLawran LLC)
• The Forger of Marseille A Novel, by Linda Joy Myers (She Writes Press)

HISTORICAL (NON-FICTION)

WINNER ($100):

• The Inner Light: How India Influenced The Beatles, by Susan Shumsky, Edited by Jacob Hoye (Permuted Press)

FINALISTS:

• American Dude Ranch: A Touch of the Cowboy and the Thrill of the West, by Lynn Downey (University of Oklahoma Press)
• An "Uncertaine Rumor" of Land: New Thoughts on the English Founding of Virginia's Eastern Shore, by Jenean Hall (KWE Publishing LLC)
• Architecture & Interior Design | Palm Beach | Creating a Vision into Design Excellence, by Benjamin Peterson, Edited by Mel Abfier, Brenda Peterson Wendling, Benjamin Peterson; Other Contributors: Brenda Star (Star Group International)
• Century's Witness, the Extraordinary Life of Journalist Wallace Carroll, by Mary Llewellyn McNeil (Whaler Books)
• Europe on the Path to Self-Destruction: Nationalism and the Struggle for Hegemony, 1815-1945, by Jack Schwartzwald (McFarland)
• Tejano Experience - The History and Genealogy of My Maternal Grandfather's Garza & Olivares Families in South Texas, by Robert Saldaña (Self-Published)

HORROR

WINNER ($100):

• River of Ashes, by Alexandrea Weis and Lucas Astor (Vesuvian Books)

FINALISTS:

• Come One, Come All, by E. Gilliland (Bayou Wolf Press)
• Hell Spring, by Isaac Thorne (Lost Hollow Books)
• The Tooth Fairy, by Davide Tarsitano (Davide Tarsitano)
• Through the Surface, by Juliet Rose (Above the Rain Collective)
• Wyatt Earp: Hollywoodland, by Brian Donnelly, Illustrated by J.C. Grande (Mythographer's Workshop, LLC)

HUMOR/COMEDY

WINNERS ($100): TIE

• The Battle-Ready Blobfish: The Stupidest Story That Ever Stupided, by Juno Xerkado (Kindle Direct Publishing)
• The Best I Can Do, by John Branning (Pusillanimous Books)

FINALISTS:

• A Psycho's Guide to Animal Companionship--Instructions for the abnormal pet companion, by Rocky Leplin (KDP)
• Berry Barry: The Blood Orchard War Arc, by Vash The Author (Self-Published)
• Big Sea Tales - Season One: The Key to Happiness (And Quite Possibly Tetanus), by Damien Schmitt, Illustrated by Damien Schmitt (Self-Published)
• GRIN REAPING, by Rod Carley (Latitude 46 Publishing)
• Tune in Tomorrow: The Curious, Calamitous, Cockamamie Story Of Starr Weatherby And The Greatest Mythic Reality Show Ever, by Randee Dawn (Solaris)

ILLUSTRATIONS

WINNER ($100):

• Stronger, by Pamela Steinmetz Peckman, Illustrated by Nastya Novozhilova, Farhan Nursahal, Tess Peckman, Henrike Alicia Arzor; Other Contributors: Karen Sherman Bushy (tenoclockpress)

FINALISTS:

• Alphabet of Flowers, by Gloria D. Gonsalves (AuthorHouse UK)
• Arreguin: Painter From the New World, Illustrated by Phil Kovacevich (Museum of Northwest Art)
• Dungeon Jest: The Ruby of Power, by Andrew Snook, Edited by Rosanne Lake, Nicole North, Illustrated by Jeff Fowler, Corey King (Inker); Other Contributors: Cam Bradley (Project Manager) (Friesen Press)
• Face Your Shit, Heal Yourself: Augmented Reality Art, Healing Endometriosis & The Path of True Freedom, by Meredith Ochoa, Edited by Anita R. Henderson - Write Your Life, Illustrated by Meredith Ochoa (ANOTHER F*#%ING ARTIST)
• The Christmas Bandits, by Brian Monge, Illustrated by Ariel Olivetti (Monge Culture)

INSPIRATIONAL (FICTION)

WINNERS ($100): TIE

• The Kings Way Home, by Thomas E Pizur, Illustrated by Sue Baugh (Amazon)
• The Perfect Revenge: The Dragonfly Rises, by WilD (Wild Dragonfly Press)

FINALISTS:

• A Hundred Days Till Tomorrow, by L. S. Case (SparkPress)
• Falling Apart, Falling for You, by Chris Posti, Edited by Cristel Phelps (Elk Lake Publishing)
• The Dreamtidings of a Disgruntled Starbeing: Life With a Psychopathic Brother, by Linn Aspen, Illustrated by Maia Lynd; Other Contributors: Nicole Perry, Vivek Kumar (Chickadee Vision Publishing)
• The Persistent Road, by Tim Bishop, Edited by Christina Boys, Natalie Hanemann, John David Kudrick; Other Contributors: Cover by Micah Kandros (Open Road Press)
• Waterbury Winter, by Linda Stewart Henley (She Writes Press)

INSPIRATIONAL (NON-FICTION)

WINNERS ($100): TIE

• Bedside Witness: Stories of Hope, Healing, and Humanity, by Kay Adams (Crown Hill Publishing)
• Joyous Leadership - Stories of Learnings Along the Way, by John Mark Watson (ONBrand Books, an imprint of W. Brand Publishing)

FINALISTS:

• 30 Principles of Abundance, by Marcus Gill (Gill House Books)
• Divine Detour: The Path You'd Never Choose Can Lead to the Faith You've Always Wanted, by Lori Ann Wood, Edited by Debra L. Butterfield, Editor; Other Contributors: Tamara Clymer, Cover and Interior Design; Dr. Eileen Hsich, Foreword (CrossRiver Media)
• Encounters with Living Language: Surrendering to the Power of Words, by Christina Donnell, Ph.D, Edited by Ellen Kleiner, BlessingWay (Winds of Change Books)
• My Husband Chose the Homewrecker Over Me! Now What?! A Guide to Discovering, Rebuilding, and Moving Forward after Infidelity and Divorce, by Yolanda Randolph and Roshonda N. Blackmon (RettieBooks)
• Whispering in His Ear: A month of Joyful Conversations with God, by Yvette Walker (Positively Joy Ministries)

LGBTQ+ (LESBIAN/GAY/BISEXUAL/TRANSGENDER/QUEER+)

WINNERS ($100): TIE

• Affliction: Growing Up With A Closeted Gay Dad, by Laura Hall (She Writes Press)
• American Scholar, by Patrick E. Horrigan (Lethe Press)

FINALISTS:

• Crybaby: Infertility, Illness, and Other Things That Were Not the End of the World, by Cheryl E. Klein (Brown Paper Press)
• Life...According to Z, by mothasistah (aka nadeen herring), Edited by Nadeen Herring, Illustrated by Reginald Byers; Other Contributors: Zion Herring (Mascot Books)
• Restless Gold, by David William Salvaggio, Edited by Archway Publishing, Illustrated by Archway Publishing (Archway Publishing)
• Speaking Out: Families of LGTBQ+ Advance the Dialogue, Edited by Esther Schwartz-McKinzie (Gival Press)
• Tempered, by Kate Kort, Edited by Jennifer Geist (Brick Mantel Books)
• The Angel Room, by Lee Call (J Emrys Press)
• Wildflower Words, by Sam Ledel, Edited by Barbara Ann Wright (Bold Strokes Books)

LIFESTYLE/COOKING/HOW TO/HOME

WINNERS ($100): TIE

• Badass Cookery & General Shenanigans, by Kevin Pagenkop (Badass Cookery)
• Irresistibly Vegan: Gourmet Dining, by Elvira Rodriguez Alonso, Edited by Helen Martineau; Other Contributors: JoAnne Burek (Proofreader/Indexer), Anugito ten Voorde (Graphic Designer), Elvira Rodriguez Alonso & Brian Taylor (Photography) (Self-Published)

FINALISTS:

• Lush Life: Food & Drinks from the Garden, by Valerie Rice, Edited by Amanda Chiu (Prospect Park Books)
• More Than Just a Pretty Space: Make Small Changes to Your Home, Manifest Big Changes in Your Life, by Reiko Gomez, Peter Kaplan, Illustrated by Lika Kvirikashvili (Further Press)
• The Wisdom of Gardening, by David Grodski, Edited by Harshita Sharma (Hasmark Publishing International)
• Unlocking the Novella-in-Flash: from Blank Page to Finished Manuscript, by Michael Loveday (Ad Hoc Fiction)
• Yoga of Yarn A Knitter's Handbook for Self-Discovery, by Liza Laird, Edited by Melanie Falick, Illustrated by Aly Miller (RK Press)

MEMOIRS (CAREER)

WINNER ($100):

• The Vet at Noah's Ark: Stories of Survival from an Inner-City Animal Hospital, by Dr. Douglas Mader; Other Contributors: Foreword by Dr. Kevin T. Fitzgerald (Apollo Publishers)

FINALISTS:

• 70 Ads to Save the World: An Illustrated Memoir of Social Change, by Jerry Mander (Synergetic Press)
• Nate Branch: Playing My Way Through Life, by Nate Branch with Barry Kienzle (Headline Books)
• Sister in a Brotherhood: Stories from My Life as a Female Firefighter, by Cindie Schooner-Ball (KC Books)
• Surgeon's Journey: A Venturesome Life, by George J. Hill (Heritage Books, Inc.)
• Trail Dogs and Firefighters: A Memoir from the Burning West, by Robert J. (Bob) Roller (Independently Published)

MEMOIRS (HISTORICAL/LEGACY)

WINNERS ($100): TIE

• Longing for a North Korean Sky: A Memoir, by Myun Haing Kim, Edited by L.A. Mitchell, Illustrated by Sunhee Joo (Myun Haing Kim)
• The Art of Astonishment: Reflections on Gifts and Grace, by Alice Brittan (Bloomsbury)

FINALISTS:

• HAZELET'S JOURNAL A Riveting Alaska Gold Rush Saga: Travel Edition, Backpack Tested, Wifi Not Required..., by George Cheever Hazelet, Edited by J. H. Clark (Old Stone Press)
• Remembering Water, by Tuan Phan (Hidden River Press)
• The Enchanted Suitcase: A Window Onto My German Father's World War II Life, by Helga Warren, Illustrated by Cliff Warren (Cover) (Black Rose Writing)
• The People's Lawyer: A Radical Representation of Change, Courage, & Commitment to Civil Rights, by Bobby H. Caldwell & Shaundale R. Johnson, Edited by S. Rena + Co. Editorial Boutique (Shaundale R. Johnson)
• The Sun Express: 27 Stations to Redemption - Based on a True Story, by Pilar Velez (Snow Fountain Press)

MEMOIRS (OTHER)

WINNERS ($100): TIE

• EVER VIGILANT, Tales of the Vietnam War, by Michael J. Hebert (Self-Published)
• Lifeline to a Soul The Life-Changing Perspective I Gained While Teaching Entrepreneurship to Prisoners, by John K. McLaughlin, Edited by Brad Norman (Lifeline Education Connection)

FINALISTS:

• Carmine and the 13th Avenue Boys: Surviving Brooklyn's Colombo Mob, by Craig McGuire; Other Contributors: Carmine Imbriale (WildBlue Press)
• Change of Course: Sailing into Love & Adversity on Caribbean Shores, by Regina Petra Meyer (Broadcast Books)
• Storked! adoption secrecy and the search for identity., by K.C. Sanford (Self-Published)
• This Arab Life: A Generation's Journey Into Silence, by Amal Ghandour (Bold Story Press)
• Who Is Your Red Dress? One Woman's Quest to Break Up With a Love Addiction, by Emmi Fortin, Edited by Diana Christine; Other Contributors: Kristy Lynae Moore (Typography and Interior Design) (Emmi Fortin)

MEMOIRS (OVERCOMING ADVERSITY/TRAGEDY)

WINNERS ($100): TIE

• Crooked Lines: A Single Mom's Jewish Journey, by Jenna Zark, Edited by Joe Coccaro (Koehler Books)
• No Tears for Dad, My Path to Forgiveness, by Pete Cruz (Redemption Press)

FINALISTS:

• A Fraction Stronger: Finding belief and possibility in life's impossible moments, by Mark Berridge, Edited by Brooke Lyons, Illustrated by Tess McCabe (Cover) (Major Street Publishing)
• The Miracle Child: Traumatic Brain Injury and Me, by Kelly and Michael Lang (Koehler Books)
• The Ones Who Remember: Second-Generation Voices of the Holocaust, by Multiple Authors, Edited by Rita Benn, Julie Goldstein Ellis, Joy Wolfe Ensor, Ruth Wade (City Point Press)
• The Red Sandals: A Memoir, by Jing Li (Sand Hill Review Press)
• The Snipers We Couldn't See, by Karen Comba, Edited by Kerry Stapley (Beaver's Pond Press)

MEMOIRS (PERSONAL STRUGGLE/HEALTH ISSUES)

WINNERS ($100): TIE

• Deep Waters: A Memoir of Loss, Alaska Adventure, and Love Rekindled, by Beth Ann Mathews (She Writes Press)
• Yes, Again: (Mis) adventures of a Wishful Thinker, by Sallie H. Weissinger, Edited by Courtney Flavin (She Writes Press)

FINALISTS:

• A Fraction Stronger: Finding belief and possibility in life's impossible moments, by Mark Berridge, Edited by Brooke Lyons, Illustrated by Tess McCabe (Cover) (Major Street Publishing)
• Fallen Star: A Return to Self through the Eight Limbs of Yoga, by Molly Chanson, Illustrated by Anne Chanson (Shanti Arts)
• Glenn's Sister: A Memoir, by Carolyn Plath, Edited by Mary Eichbauer, Linda Hastings, Lois Requist (Benicia Literary Arts)
• I Can See for Miles: Overcoming the Past and Running to My Future, by Hollie Stuart, Edited by Kristen Hamilton (Marathon Publishing Co.)
• Touching Two Worlds - A Guide for Finding Hope in the Landscape of Loss, by Dr. Sherry Walling (Sounds True)

MILITARY

WINNER ($100):

• The Borinqueneers, A Visual History of the 65th Infantry Regiment, by Noemi Figueroa Soulet, Edited by Luis Asencio Camacho; Other Contributors: Katie MJ Designs (Cover Designer) (El Pozo Productions)

FINALISTS:

• Europe on the Path to Self-Destruction: Nationalism and the Struggle for Hegemony, 1815-1945, by Jack Schwartzwald (McFarland)
• LANGDON LIBERANDO: An Abbevilian's Fifty Missions over Southern Europe, by Joe H. Camp, Jr. (KDP--Kindle Direct Publishing Independent Publishing Platform)
• No Greater Duty, by Robert Stewart (BQB Publishing)
• Remote Work for Military Spouses: Find and Grow Your Meaningful Mobile Career, by Laura Briggs (Elva Resa Publishing)
• That Men Should Fear, by Sandra Phoenix (Self-Published on Amazon's KDP)

MIND, BODY AND SPIRIT

WINNER ($100):

• Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj The Complete Works, by Pradeep Apte (Notion Press)

FINALISTS:

• A Sky of Infinite Blue- A Japanese Immigrant's Search for Home and Self, by Kyomi O'Connor (She Writes Press)
• Breath Is Life Taking IN and Letting GO: How to Live Well, Love Well, BE Well, by Laurie Ellis-Young with George T. Ellis PsyD, Edited by Marly Cornell (Content & Substantive Editor) & Mary Rains (Conceptual & Developmental Editor); Other Contributors: Book Cover Design: Kathi Dunn, Dunn+Design.com; Interior Design & Back Cover by Dorie McClelland, springbookdesign.com; Production coordination and photography management by Nancy Chakrin; All photos by Laurie Ellis-Young & others as noted; Hot-Air Balloon illustration by Sheryl VanderPol; Back Cover Author photo by Jeffrey Hunsberger (Breathe The Change Press)
• Higher and Friendly Powers: Transforming Addiction and Suffering, by Peg O'Connnor (Wildhouse Publications)
• Just Trust: Listen to the wisdom of your soul... It knows the way, by Pauline Rohdich, Edited by Day Bulger (Hasmark Publishing International)
• Love Poems from the Earth An Invitation to an Intimate Connection with Nature, by Kai Siedenburg, Illustrated by Mária Kersey (Our Nature Connection)
• Psychedelic Integration: Psychotherapy for Non-Ordinary States of Consciousness, by Marc Aixala (Synergetic Press)
• To All the Magic in Me: A Collection of Love Letters to All of Life's Emotions, by Pavita Singh, MPH, Illustrated by Mary K. Biswas (Publish Your Gift)

MOTIVATIONAL

WINNER ($100):

• A Fraction Stronger: Finding belief and possibility in life's impossible moments, by Mark Berridge, Edited by Brooke Lyons, Illustrated by Tess McCabe (Cover) (Major Street Publishing)

FINALISTS:

• Butterfly Awakens: A Memoir of Transformation Through Grief, by Meg Nocero (She Writes Press)
• Firework Humans, by Jessica Mead (Morgan James Publishing)
• Mental Acuity - The Entrepreneur's Guide To Shaping Your Mind For Greater $uccess., by Michael Solomon (Book Locker)
• Singlehandedly. Learning to Unhide and Embrace Connection., by Ruth Rathblott, MSW, Edited by Elizabeth Arterberry, Christine Borris, and Charlie Wormhoudt (Ignite Press)
• The Life Is Too Short Guy: Strategies To Make Every Day The Best Day Ever, by Scott White (New Degree Press)

MULTICULTURAL (FICTION)

WINNER ($100):

• Out Killing Indians, by Rick Steber (Bonanza Publishing, LLC)

FINALISTS:

• California Sister, by Gloria Mattioni, Edited by David Francis, Megan Turner (Atmosphere Press)
• Layers of Truth, by Rosalie T. Turner (Sunstone Press)
• The Loyal Daughter, by Nancy Lam (At Bay Press)
• The New Empire, by Alison McBain (Woodhall Press)
• The River Remembers, by Linda Ulleseit (She Writes Press)

MYSTERY

WINNERS ($100): TIE

• Conspiracy in Bologna, by Ken Tentarelli (Ken Tentarelli)
• Murder at Sleeping Tiger, by C. R. Koons (Camel Press)

FINALISTS:

• For the Minds and Wills of Men, by Jeff Lanier (Boyle & Dalton)
• Murder in Third Position: An On Pointe Mystery, by Lori Robbins, Edited by Shawn Reilly Simmons (Level Best Books)
• Oh, Henry, by Joanne Cook (JACBooks)
• Subway Slayings, by C.S. Poe (Emporium Press)
• The Brothers Brown & Gray: A Boston Detective Novel, by Gary Glass (Black Rose Writing)

NEW AGE

WINNER ($100):

• Tarotpy -- It's All in the Cards, by Lauren Z. Schneider MFT, Edited by Rick Benzel (New Insight Press)

FINALISTS:

• Drawn into the Dream: How Drawing Your Dreams Can Take You to the Land of Awes, by Walter Berry (Precocity Press)
• Embodied: How to Connect to Your Body, Ignite Your Intuition, and Harness Universal Energy for Healing, by Vicky Roubekas; Other Contributors: Dr. Beth Hedva, Foreword (VR Publications)
• Heal the Storyteller, by Rebecca Aleisha Roberts, Edited by Wendy MacDougall, Illustrated by Leah Pisconeri (Self-Published)
• I Am Light, by Lisa Annese (WorldChangers Media)
• More Than Just a Pretty Space: Make Small Changes to Your Home, Manifest Big Changes in Your Life, by Reiko Gomez, Peter Kaplan, Illustrated by Lika Kvirikashvili (Further Press)
• The Mastery of Life: A Toltec Guide to Personal Freedom, by don Miguel Ruiz, Jr. (Hierophant Publishing)

NOVELLA (UNDER 40,000 WORDS)

WINNERS ($100): TIE

• The Bookish Dark, by Matthew Brady, Edited by Ronald Linson; Other Contributors: Deidre J. Owen (Mannison Press)
• The Truth About Elves, by Ekta R. Garg (Atmosphere Press)

FINALISTS:

• Binding Off, by Kelly Vincent (KV BOOKS LLC)
• Dark Waves, by Amanda Uhl, Edited by Tera Norris, Illustrated by Christian Betulan (Amanda Uhl, LLC)
• How to Ace Your Comeback, by David Gibb (Mouse House Books)
• Love, Alice, by Amanda Sthers (Wyatt-MacKenzie)
• The Bird At The End OF Time, by Scott Neil (Elvin Books)
• The Bishop's Palace, by Janet K. Shawgo, Edited by Joan Acklin; Other Contributors: Michelle Rene (Five Ladies Press)

PARANORMAL

WINNER ($100):

• Demon Riding Shotgun, by L. R. Braden (Bell Bridge Books)

FINALISTS:

• A Shadow Melody, by Brian Kaufman (Black Rose Writing)
• Hunted, by V. M. Nelson, Edited by Courtney Andersson, Lara Kennedy, Liz Gilbeau; Other Contributors: Stefanie Saw (Cover Designer) (VMNelson Books LLC)
• Resurrection: Book I of The Martyr Series, by MC Hunton (Underground Press LLC)
• The Wild Rose and the Sea Raven, by Jennifer Ivy Walker, Edited by Ally Robertson; Other Contributors: Rae Monet (Cover Design) (The Wild Rose Press)
• Too Much to Candle, by Sarah E. Burr (Kindle Direct Publishing)

PARENTING/FAMILY (NON-FICTION)

WINNERS ($100): TIE

• Resolving Your Child's Challenging Behavior: A Practical Guide to Parenting with Positive Behavior Support, Second Edition, by Meme Hieneman, Ph.D., BCBA, Karen Elfner, M.A., & Jane Sergay, M.Ed.; Other Contributors: Foreword by Glen Dunlap, Ph.D. (Brookes Publishing Co.)
• The Gift of Green Time: 50 Ways for Families to Disconnect (and Reconnect) Outdoors - Lake Minnetonka, by Beverly Gillen, Edited by Stephanie Lancour; Other Contributors: Megan C. Rosvold (Graphic Designer) (Partners in Parenting Consulting LLC)

FINALISTS:

• Baby Ecology: Using Science and Intuition to Create the Best Feeding, Sleep, and Play Environment for Your Unique Baby, by Anya Dunham, Ph.D., Edited by Jessica Shulman (Encradled Press)
• Growing Compassionate Children - Grower's Guide, by Sonja Lange Wendt (Enlight Publishing)
• Raising Kids Who Choose Safety: The TAMS Method for Child Accident Prevention, by David C. Schwebel, Edited by mwilliams@chicagoreviewpress.com (Chicago Review Press; Parenting Press)
• The Architecture of Motherhood. Your Blueprint to Glow as a Business Woman and Mom., by Gloria Kloter, Edited by Two Penny Publishing (Two Penny Publishing)
• Work, Parent, Thrive: 12 Science-Backed Strategies to Ditch Guilt, Manage Overwhelm, and Grow Connection (When Everything Feels Like Too Much), by Yael Schonbrun (Shambhala Publications)

POETRY

WINNER ($100):

• HOLOGLYPHS II - Afterlight, by S. K. Yeatts (Adelaide Books)

FINALISTS:

• Psych Murders, by Stephanie Heit (Wayne State University Press)
• Quickwater Oracles: Conversations & Meditations, by Ruth Thompson (Two Fine Crows Books / Imprint of Saddle Road Press)
• REMEMBER THIS, by D.M. Langdon, Edited by Carlie Slattery; Other Contributors: Cover art and internal design: Wanissa Somsuphangsri (InHouse Publishing, Australia)
• The Rapids, by Yogesh Patel MBE (The London Magazine Editions)
• Words in Passing, by E.M. Schorb, Illustrated by E.M. Schorb (The New Formalist Press)

REGIONAL (FICTION)

WINNERS ($100): TIE

• Island Secrets: Stories from the Coast of Maine, by Catherine J.S. Lee (Sea Smoke Press)
• The Secret of Rainy Days, by Leslie Hooton (Keylight Books)

FINALISTS:

• A Wife In Watercolor, by B. B Shamp (Secant Publishing)
• Come By Here, by Barbara E. Bull (Cherry Point Publishing)
• Eli's Redemption, by Paul Attaway, Edited by David Aretha, Jonah Dorris (Linksland Publishing)
• Hogge Wild: A Gordon Strange Mystery, by Karen Sirabian (KDP Amazon/The Madwoman Press)
• Lavinia Wren and the Sailmakers, by Irene M. Drago (Maine Authors Publishing)
• Saltwater and Driftwood: A Historical Novel, by Anna J Walner (Silver Dawn Publishing)
• The Kingston Twins, Bravery in the Blitz, by Deb Stratas, Illustrated by Natasha Djokoto (amazon)

REGIONAL (NON-FICTION)

WINNER ($100):

• Painting Joy: the Art and Life of Fernando Llort, by Teddi Ahrens (StoryTree Prints)

FINALISTS:

• A Deep Presence:13,000 Years of Native American History, by Robert Goodby (Peter E. Randall Publisher)
• Portrait of a Forest: Men and Machine, by George Bellerose, Illustrated by George Bellerose (photographer) (Vermont Folklife Middlebury, Vermont)
• Someone Knows, by Christine Mager Wevik (Burlwood Press)
• Tales From a Mid-Century Boy, by Kurt Struble (Fathom Publishing)
• The Busy Bridge That Got Its Break, by Shane Svorec, Edited by Jill Armijo, Illustrated by Graziella Miligi (AAE)

RELATIONSHIPS (NON-FICTION)

WINNER ($100):

• How You Leave Them Feeling - Your Foundation For Inspiring Love & Relationships, by Lisa Ferrell & Jesse Ferrell, Edited by Lori McFerran, Laura Kaiser, August Li, Jenni Murphy, Cher Weldon, Illustrated by Lisa Ulshafer (PYP Publish Your Purpose)

FINALISTS:

• Don't: How using the right words will change your life, by Bob Selden (Bob Selden)
• Gaslighting: A Step-by-Step Recovery Guide to Heal From Emotional Abuse and Build Healthy Relationships, by Deborah Vinall, PsyD, LMFT, Edited by Jesse Aylen; Other Contributors: Francesca Pacchini (Interior and Cover Design), Meg Baggott (Art Producer), Nora Milman (Production Editor), Jose Olivera (Production Manager) (Rockridge Press)
• Mother Lode: Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver, by Gretchen Staebler (She Writes Press)
• Rue's Butterfly: From Caregiving to Living My Bucket List, by Donna McCart Welser (New Degree Press)
• Wild Monogamy: Cultivating Erotic Intimacy to Keep Passion and Desire Alive, by Mali Apple and Joe Dunn, Edited by Yolanda D'Aquino (A Higher Possibility)

RELIGIOUS (FICTION)

WINNERS ($100): TIE

• Carlisle Divided - Stories of Justus and Mercy Part 1, by RE Russell, Edited by Karen Saari (EA Books Publishing)
• The Wise Man, by Michele Chynoweth, Edited by Cristel Phelps (Elk Lake Publishing)

FINALISTS:

• Church Dog and the Christmas Visitor, by Tracy Mattes, Illustrated by Justin Greenly (Church Dog LLC)
• Church Dog and the Prayer Pumpkin, by Tracy Mattes, Illustrated by Justin Greenly (Church Dog LLC)
• Church Dog and the World's First Zoo, by Tracy Mattes, Illustrated by Justin Greenly (Church Dog LLC)
• Faith, Fables, Fooey!, by E.B. Robaire, Illustrated by Camille Davies (Island Soul Publishing)
• Once To Die (A Novel of Catholic Christian Suspense), by T.S. Epperson; Other Contributors: W.D. Epperson Cover Design (Multivalent Press)
• The Angel Kitten Who Saved Christmas, by John C Cappello (Amazon)
• Victory! by Ci Ci Soleil; Other Contributors: Danielle Hennis (Cover Art), Savannah DePaz (Cover Design) (Beach Reads Press)

ROMANCE (FICTION)

WINNER ($100):

• After Everyone Else, by Leslie Hooton (Turner Publishing)

FINALISTS:

• A Suitable Woman, by Deborah Hillier (Deborah Hillier)
• Come As You Are: A Gen X Romance (Bluebird Basin Book 1), by Jess K Hardy (Self-Published)
• Out of Habit: Sometimes we dare to change the things we do strictly..., by Kathleen Dutton (Inks and Bindings, LLC)
• The Tea Drinker's Guide to Adventure, by Andrée Jannette (Self-Published)
• Wind River Refuge: Transcendent, by JM Anton (Half Appy Press)

SCIENCE FICTION

WINNER ($100):

• Unity, The Black Table Series, by Anttimatti Pennanen, Edited by Kim Smith (Anttimatti Pennanen)

FINALISTS:

• Fences of The Light: A novel about time, by J. D. Cortese, Illustrated by Dissect Designs (Opportuna Libra, LLC)
• In the Shadow of Humanity: A Novel, by N. John Williams (N. John Williams)
• L. Ron Hubbard Presents Writers of the Future Volume 38, by Multiple Authors, Edited by David Farland, Illustrated by Multiple Illustrators (Galaxy Press)
• Maker on the High Road, by Henry Melton (Wire Rim Books)
• Vitamin Screen, by Tyler H. Jolley, Mary H. Geis, Edited by Precision Editing Group, Illustrated by Michelle Argyle (Jolley Chronicles)

SCIENCE/NATURE/ENVIRONMENT

WINNER ($100):

• HIDDEN LIFE OF THE DESERT, And Our Future in the Drying Southwest, by Thomas Wiewandt; Other Contributors: Photography by Thomas Wiewandt, unless otherwise indicated in caption (Published by Wild Horizons Publishing, Inc. and Mountain Press Publishing Co.)

FINALISTS:

• Nature's Apprentices: The Magic of the Peatlands, by Elizabeth Bekolay, Illustrated by Jennifer Becker (Your Nickel's Worth Publishing)
• Our Threatened Kin - Fur, Feather & Fin, by Dev Shah, Illustrated by Dev Shah (Notion Press)
• Regenerative Agriculture: The Climate Crisis Solution, by Stephen Erickson (TGH Press)
• The Greatest Cause of Mia Dubois, by Chris Casavant (SDP Publishing)
• Tree With Golden Apples: Botanical and Agricultural Wisdom in World Myths, by Susan Strauss, Illustrated by Gretta Johnson; Other Contributors: Ian Edwards, PHD (Scientific Contributions) (Fulcrum Publishing)

SECOND NOVEL

WINNERS ($100): TIE

• A Sacred Duty: An FBI Yellowstone Adventure, by Rhona Weaver (Two Oaks Press)
• The Hammerhead Chronicles, by Scott Gould, Edited by Elizabeth Odom (University of North Georgia Press)

FINALISTS:

• 52 Lessons with Finn, by Spencer Margaret (Self-Published)
• ANGELS and BANDITS, by Brodie Curtis, Edited by Sue Millard (Westy Vistas Books)
• Eli's Redemption, by Paul Attaway, Edited by David Aretha, Jonah Dorris (Linksland Publishing)
• God's Ponzi, by Robert Buschel (Black Rose Writing)
• Simone LaFray and the Red Wolves of London, by S.P. O'Farrell, Edited by Erin Harpst (Brandylane Publishers, Inc.)
• Stars in Their Infancy--A Novel, by Marleen Pasch, Edited by Haley Hampton (Citrine Publishing)
• The Hive, by Melissa Scholes Young (Keylight Books, Turner Publishing)

SELF-HELP (NON-FICTION)

WINNER ($100):

• The Financial Mindset Fix: A Mental Fitness Program for an Abundant Life, by Joyce Marter (Sounds True)

FINALISTS:

• 911 From Your Soul, by Jeanine Thompson (WorldChangers Media)
• Clarity to Make Your Mark - 12 steps to discovering your vision, being your best self, and leaving a legacy, by Jessica Ritchie, Edited by Anne-Marie Tripp; Other Contributors: Indie Experts (Jessica Ritchie)
• Cracking the Healer's Code A prescription for Healing Racism & Finding Wholeness, by MILAGROS PHILLIPS, Edited by New Degree Press Editors (New Degree Press)
• Doing Grief in Real Life: A Soulful Guide to Navigate Loss, Death & Change, by Shea Darian (Gilead Press)
• Gaslighting: A Step-by-Step Recovery Guide to Heal From Emotional Abuse and Build Healthy Relationships, by Deborah Vinall, PsyD, LMFT, Edited by Jesse Aylen; Other Contributors: Francesca Pacchini (Interior and Cover Design), Meg Baggott (Art Producer), Nora Milman (Production Editor), Jose Olivera (Production Manager) (Rockridge Press)
• My Voice, His Heart: Experiencing Prayer In God's Will, by Cathy Endebrock, Illustrated by Suzi Kramer (Tranquility Press)
• Rehabit Your Life. A Doctor's Notebook on Navigating Health and Wellbeing., by PL Bandy MD, Illustrated by PL Bandy MD (Archway Publishing)

SERIES (FICTION) MINIMUM THREE BOOKS, ONE MUST BE WITHIN CURRENT YEAR GUIDELINES

WINNER ($100):

• The Adventures of Blue Ocean Bob - Books 1-4, by Brooks Olbrys, Edited by Emma Walton Hamilton, Illustrated by Kevin Keele; Other Contributors: Greenleaf Book Group (Children's Success Unlimited LLC)

FINALISTS:

• A Grumpy The Iguana and Green Parrot Adventure Series Books 1-11, by Susan Marie Chapman, Illustrated by Natalia Loseva (Canoe Tree Press)
• Church Dog Adventure Series, by Tracy Mattes, Illustrated by Justin Greenly (Church Dog LLC)
• Hello, My Name is Bunny!, by Matt Bloom, Illustrated by Pippa Mayell; Other Contributors: Shelley Simmons-Bloom (Positivity Publishing LLC)
• Matthew Paine Mysteries, by Lee Clark (Cypress River Media LLC)
• The Power Of Series, by Ruth Maille, Edited by Bobbie Hinman, Illustrated by Pardeep Mahre, Remesh Ram (Ruth Maille)

SHORT STORY COLLECTIONS

WINNER ($100):

• Shoot the Horses First, by Leah Angstman (Kernpunkt Press)

FINALISTS:

• 20.12m: A Short Story Collection of a Life Lived as a Road Allowance Métis, by Arnolda Dufour Bowes, Illustrated by Andrea Haughian (Gabriel Dumont Institute Press)
• Heal the Storyteller, by Rebecca Aleisha Roberts, Edited by Wendy MacDougall, Illustrated by Leah Pisconeri (Self-Published)
• Leap Years: Five Stories from Argentina, by Rita Wirkala (All Bilingual Press)
• Music Notes: Tales from an American Singer, by J.J. Maze, Edited by Adrian Jenkins, Illustrated by Ryan Prakoso (Nonipeek Press)
• The Man With Eight Pairs of Legs, by Leslie Kirk Campbell, Edited by Kristen Renee Miller (Sarabande Books)

SOCIAL CHANGE

WINNER ($100):

• It's Considerate to Be Literate about Religion Poetry and Prose about Religion, Conflict, and Peace in Our World, by Steven Clark Cunningham, Illustrated by Susan Detwiler (Orange Hat Publishing)

FINALISTS:

• BlackWash: The Untold Stories of Reverse Racism, by Rodney Cloud Hill, Edited by Alexandra Francois, Illustrated by Kiane Ware and Alexandra Francois; Other Contributors: Benjamin Fife is the audiobook narrator (Rodney Cloud Hill)
• Making Americans: Stories of Historic Struggles, New Ideas, and Inspiration in Immigrant Education, by Jessica Lander (Beacon Press)
• Perspective: Contemplating the Complexities of Our Realities, by Dr. Rachel Altvater, Edited by Eric Altvater (Creative Publishing)
• Poorly Understood: What America Gets Wrong About Poverty, by Mark Robert Rank, Lawrence M. Eppard, and Heather E. Bullock (Oxford University Press)
• Women Winning Office: An Activist's Guide to Getting Elected, by Peggy Nash (Between the Lines)

SOCIAL JUSTICE

WINNERS ($100): TIE

• Dear White Woman, Please Come Home: Hand Me Your Bias, and I'll Show You Our Connection, by Kimberlee Yolanda Williams, Edited by Debby Irving (Elephant Room Press)
• Displacement City: Fighting for Health and Homes in a Pandemic, by Greg Cook and Cathy Crowe (Aevo UTP)

FINALISTS:

• FINDING NICOLE, A true story of love, loss, betrayal, fear and hope, by Nicole Beverly (BookBaby)
• Never Catch Me, by Darius Simpson (Button Poetry)
• Slamming Bricks: An Anthology, Edited by Avery Brooks (Self-Published - Western Colorado Writers' Forum through Blurb Books/Blurb Inc.)
• Surviving the Americas: Garifuna Persistence from Nicaragua to New York City, by Serena Cosgrove, José Idiáquez, Leonard Joseph Bent, Andrew Gorvetzian (University of Cincinnati Press)
• The Social Justice Torah Commentary, Edited by Rabbi Barry H. Block (CCAR Press)

SPECIALTY/NOVELTY BOOK

WINNER ($100):

• Let Me, by Tricia Sybersma, Illustrated by Rachel Rossano (Tricia Sybersma)

FINALISTS:

• A Field Guide to Sheaffer's Pencils, by Jonathan A. Veley (Self-Published)
• CatSpeak, by Graham Bathgate, Edited by Graham Bathgate (Fine Line Press)
• Dungeon Jest: The Ruby of Power, by Andrew Snook, Edited by Rosanne Lake, Nicole North, Illustrated by Jeff Fowler, Corey King (Inker); Other Contributors: Cam Bradley (Project Manager) (Friesen Press)
• Opening the Gates of the Heart, by Carolyn CJ Jones, Edited by Linda Jay (Gate Lady Publishing)
• Reinventing the printed page, by Douglas Bullis (Atelier Books South Africa, LLC)

SPIRITUALITY

WINNER ($100):

• Powerless But Not Helpless: A Meditation Book of 81 verses from the Tao Te Ching that can help to live an alcohol free life and find freedom from any addictive behavior! by Buddy C., Edited by Kate A., Illustrated by Don M. (Te Publishing)

FINALISTS:

• Awakening Dignity: A Guide to Living a Life of Deep Fulfillment, by Phakchok Rinpoche and Sophie Wu (Shambhala Publications)
• Because My Soul Longs for You: Integrating Theology into Our Lives, Edited by Rabbi Edwin C. Goldberg and Rabbi Elaine S. Zecher (CCAR Press)
• Earth Witch: Finding Magic in the Land, by Britton Boyd (Hierophant Publishing)
• More Light An Artist's life with Meher Baba, by Tom Riley, Edited by Lois Breger, Illustrated by Tom Riley (Life -O- Riley Books)
• THE SPIRITUAL FOREST: Timeless Jewish Wisdom for a Healthier Planet and a Richer Spiritual Life, by Andy Becker (Tree of the Field Publishing)
• The Synchronicity of Love - Stories that Heal, Transform and Awaken, by John David Latta (Gracepoint Publishing)
• The Zen Executive: Gems of Wisdom for Enlightened Leadership, by Jim Blake (Unity Books)

SUSPENSE

WINNER ($100):

• Taquoma, by Kevin D. Miller, Illustrated by Kevin D. Miller (Self-Published)

FINALISTS:

• Accursed Son, by Eric Avedissian, Edited by Susan Floyd, Mandy Russell, Illustrated by Francois Vaillancourt; Other Contributors: Cover Design - Jessica Moon, Chad Moon (Shadow Spark Publishing)
• Forget Me, by Lisa Sherman (Speaking Volumes)
• MIA: A Matthew Paine Mystery, by Lee Clark (Cypress River Media LLC)
• The French House, by Courtney Lochner (Calumet Editions)
• The Keepers, by Tan Van Huizen (Black Rose Writing)

THRILLER

WINNER ($100):

• The Lawyer's Angel, by Scott Allen Benkie (MindStir Media)

FINALISTS:

• Do You Follow? by J.C. Bidonde (Greenleaf Book Group Press)
• Emerald Greed, by Brian Ray Brewer (Self-Published)
• FOUND, by Irene Cooper; Other Contributors: Brigitte Lewis (Book Design) (Atmosphere Press)
• My Mind Is Not Yours: Welcome to Tarot Tori City, by Eliot D. Esparza, Edited by Karen Robinson, Illustrated by Eliot D. Esparza (Eliot D. Esparza)
• Ruthless, by John Wendell Adams, Edited by Mary Harris, Illustrated by Monika Suteski (AMS Strategic Solutions Corporation)

TRAVEL/TRAVEL GUIDE

WINNER ($100):

• Beyond the Next Village: A Year of Magic and Medicine in Nepal, by Mary Anne Mercer (She Writes Press)

FINALISTS:

• Death's Garden Revisited: Personal Relationships with Cemeteries, by Multiple Authors, Edited by Loren Rhoads (Automatism Press)
• HAZELET'S JOURNAL A Riveting Alaska Gold Rush Saga: Travel Edition, Backpack Tested, Wifi Not Required..., by George Cheever Hazelet, Edited by J. H. Clark (Old Stone Press)
• Life Travel And The People In Between: Memoir, by Mike Nixon, Edited by Christian Coleman, Aisha Martell (Palmetto Publishing)
• Some Items May have Shifted in Flight (A life aloft, abroad and occasionally adrift), by Richard Weston Smith, Edited by Malcolm Croft, Illustrated by Harry Harrison (Richard Weston Smith)
• The Backpacker Lifecycle, by Brendyn Zachary (Self-Published)

TRUE CRIME

WINNER ($100):

• Lynched by a Mob! The 1892 Lynching of Robert Lewis in Port Jervis, New York., by Michael J. Worden (Sisu Books)

FINALISTS:

• Someone Knows, by Christine Mager Wevik (Burlwood Press)
• The Alaskan Blonde: Sex, Secrets, and the Hollywood Story that Shocked America, by James T. Bartlett (Territory Books)
• The End of Her: Racing Against Alzheimer's to Solve a Murder, by Wayne Hoffman (Heliotrope Books)
• The Man Who Hacked the World: A Ghostwriter's Descent into Madness with John McAfee, by Alex Cody Foster (Turner Publishing)
• The Third Gate to Hell, by Donald Reichardt (Self-Published)

WOMEN'S ISSUES (NON-FICTION)

WINNERS ($100): TIE

• Carry Me: Stories of Pregnancy Loss, by Frieda Hoffman (She Writes Press)
• Dear White Woman, Please Come Home: Hand Me Your Bias, and I'll Show You Our Connection, by Kimberlee Yolanda Williams, Edited by Debby Irving (Elephant Room Press)

FINALISTS:

• Forced to Marry Him: A Lifetime of Tradition and the Will to Break It, by Davinder Kaur (Davinder Kaur)
• Leaving Patriarchy Behind: One Woman's Journey, by Leticia Aguilar and Eve Quesnel (Austin Macauley)
• Sidelined: How Women Manage and Mismanage Their Health, by Susan Salenger, Edited by Nan Wiener (She Writes Press)
• Title: Antisexist Subtitle: Challenge Sexism, Champion Women's Rights, and Create Equality, by Lynn Schmidt, PhD, Edited by Frank Steele, Illustrated by Megan Katsanevakis (Bobo Publishing)
• Women Winning Office: An Activist's Guide to Getting Elected, by Peggy Nash (Between the Lines)

WOMEN'S LITERATURE (NON-FICTION)

WINNERS ($100): TIE

• A Sky of Infinite Blue- A Japanese Immigrant's Search for Home and Self, by Kyomi O'Connor (She Writes Press)
• BRIGHT LIGHTS, PRAIRIE DUST Reflections on Life, Loss, and Love from Little House's Ma, by Karen Grassle (She Writes Press)

FINALISTS:

• I Can See for Miles: Overcoming the Past and Running to My Future, by Hollie Stuart, Edited by Kristen Hamilton (Marathon Publishing Co.)
• Midnight Calling: A Memoir of a Drug Smuggler's Daughter, by Lynn Walker (MZW Publishing)
• The Water Calls, One Woman's Journey to Reclaim Her Dignity and Freedom, by Ariana Strozzi Mazzucchi, Illustrated by Ariana Strozzi Mazzucchi (Merry Dissonance Press)
• Trip Tales: From Family Camping to Life as a Ranger, by Rosanne S. McHenry, Edited by Heidi Eliason, Illustrated by Yvonne Parks; Other Contributors: Janica Smith (Huntley Avenue Press)
• Your Empowered Self: Activities, Exercises, and Steps for Living an Empowered Life, by Emily Maroutian (Maroutian Entertainment)

YOUNG ADULT (FICTION) (12 YEARS TO 16 YEARS)

WINNER ($100):

• Paper Planes, by Jennie Wood, Edited by Erica Schultz, Lauren Hitzhusen, Illustrated by Dozerdraws (Maverick - imprint of Mad Cave Studios)

FINALISTS:

• Imagining Elsewhere, by Sara Hosey (CamCat Books)
• Novelty Heroes, by Tyler H. Jolley, T.J. White, Edited by Precision Editing Group (Jolley Chronicles)
• Stolen, by Lindsey Undlin (Idun, an imprint of W. Brand Publishing)
• The Angel Room, by Lee Call (J Emrys Press)
• The Sky We Shared, by Shirley Reva Vernick (Lee & Low Books (Cinco Puntos imprint))
• The Trials of Ildarwood: Fall of the Forsaken, by S. C. Selvyn, Edited by Leonora Bulbeck, Jake Devine, Illustrated by David Perez; Other Contributors: Cover by Jeff Brown, Elemental Emblems by Dejan Goti?, Map by Chaim Holtjer. (Avylaan Kingdom Press LLC)

YOUNG AUTHOR (WRITTEN BY UNDER AGE 25)

WINNER ($100):

• Coffee Gets Cold Quick: a novel, by M. L. Bell (Kindle Direct Publishing)

FINALISTS:

• Adventures of the Kennicot Five, by Chelsea Guo (Amazon)
• Catalogue of Ripening, by Sabrina Guo (Children's Art Foundation - Stone Soup Inc.)
• Foxtale, by Sarah Hunt (Children's Art Foundation - Stone Soup Inc.)
• Sweepings of the Street, by Amanda Denney (Double J Press)
• The Republic of Reality, by Adam Rowan (Mother Butterfly)
• Where the Magic Lies (Perils of Portia Saga #1), by Hermione Lee (Self-Published)

YOUNG NEW ADULT (FICTION) (17 YEARS AND UP)

WINNER ($100):

• Blowin' My Mind Like a Summer Breeze, by Benjamin Roesch (Deep Hearts YA)

FINALISTS:

• Always the New Girl, by Kelly Vincent (KV BOOKS LLC)
• Life Support, by Sarah McKnight (Sarah McKnight)
• The Angel Room, by Lee Call (J Emrys Press)
• The Last Man In Cleveland, by Danny O'Dea (Curious Corvid Publishing)
• The Last Session Vol. 1: Roll For Initiative, by Jasmine Walls, Edited by Michael Moccio, Illustrated by Dozerdraws (Mad Cave Studios)