The 2012 winners of the GRACE AWARDS for Faith Based Fiction have been released. Six category winners are nominated by readers with no entry fee which is a unique approach to the award system. “The most democratic awards in Christian fiction”, commented Nike Chillemi, author and founder of the Grace Awards. You will find extensive reviews for each winner in the 2012 class at the link. Give yourself a reading treat; be prepared to be building a shopping list.
Readers have a specific format to complete the nomination form. When you put for the effort to nominate your favorite, the story moves on to the next steps of sorting using criteria notes from the reader nomination until the final top three are submitted to the independent judges. Nominations begin fast and furious on December 31 to bring novels or long novellas (at least 50,000 words) to the attention of more readers.
I learned of the Grace Awards during a GelatisScoop conversation including Nike Chillemi and Giovanni Gelati. They were kind enough to add my phone call to the conversation so I could ask some questions and comment. Nike Chillemi Drops By to Chat.
Nike Chillemi has authored numerous Christian mysteries staged in the past. She told Gio, during the conversation, that her current project is set in contemporary times. I loved listening to how this author, a self-described crime fictionista, told of her research activities to provide an authentic, uplifting story. I just downloaded Sanctuary Point Book One: Burning Hearts, leading a series of Sanctuary Point mysteries. Looking forward to a read soon and some reviews for you of Christian based mystery.
Giovanni Gelati has his hands FULL. He writes — involved in a western serial with other prominent authors. He leads Helping Hands Press and actively participates in marketing along with the authors using Facebook events and regular guests at the G-Zone at GelatisScoop. The Facebook Thirsty Thursday events are chaotic good times where new releases are often celebrated. Gio keeps on ticking — he writes several blogs and enjoys family life as well.
During the conversation, Gio made an offer to Nike to come into the G-Zone soon to talk more about the Grace Awards,
Winners of the awards receive the acclaim — there is no trophy or medal or other award expense. But what an honor to be acknowledged by readers — a compliment that isn’t obligated in any way. Be sure to take a few minutes and nominate your favorite Godly book released in 2013. I know this is early, so you can expect some more reminders along the way.