AMPLIFY AWARD WINNERS

THE AMERICAN QUEEN
by Vanessa Miller
(Thomas Nelson)

JUDGES' COMMENTS

“The American Queen beautifully explores the complexities of love, power, and desire, weaving a captivating modern romance that’s both passionate and poignantly raw.”

“Based on true events, The American Queen tells a little-known part of African American history that deserves rediscovery today. Vanessa Miller immerses the reader into Louella Montgomery’s journey and leadership of the Happy Land, a community of formerly enslaved people in the late 19th-century Carolinas. Witnessing how God tended and cared for Louella’s heart and spirit was inspiring. Her resilience, perseverance, and unwavering faith stood out with each turn of the page. Louella and William faced many hardships together, but to see their relationship develop through the ordeal of reaching a place they could call home was truly beautiful. This elegantly crafted novel affirms that even in the most devastating circumstances, God can provide deliverance into a life of joy and peace for those who hold on to hope. The judging panel hopes to see this book made into a movie! The author’s depth of research, character development, and narrative strength honor the importance and significance of this untold story and warrant the 2024 Amplify Award. Congratulations!”

THE STAR THAT ALWAYS STAYS
by Anna Rose Johnson
(Holiday House)

“It was just perfect -- a refreshing read that hit on the right balance of multilayered themes: divorce, blended family, indigenous culture, a bit of high school drama, God's love, how to handle things that you can't control, forgiveness, grace, and divine intervening in our lives.”

JUDGE

IN SEARCH OF A PRINCE
by Toni Shiloh
(Bethany House/ Baker Publishing Group)

“The judges agreed that it was hard not to be overtaken by the superb storytelling, world-building, and character development that Shiloh has mastered with seemingly extraordinary ease and flow. We found it to be an outstanding representation of literary excellence and an authentic 'own voices' story that stood out in every way. We find it a unique privilege, as an ethnically diverse judge panel, to contribute toward a deeper read of books by BIPOC authors and look forward to continuing to amplify their voices and stories.”