The Brontë Prize is named in honor of acclaimed nineteenth century English writer Charlotte Brontë. Published in 1847 by London’s Smith, Elder & Company, her novel Jane Eyre is not only one of the most famous English novels ever written but also considered to be the first viable work of “romantic fiction.” (Not to be confused with “romance novels,” “romantica,” or “erotica.”)
With no such existing award and a desperate need for recognition in North America’s #1 selling genre, Literary Arts Guild (LAG) chairwoman Tally Dawson conceived the Brontë Prize in December of 2006. Much like the Hugo/Nebula Award for science fiction or the Edgar Award for mystery novels, the esteemed Brontë Prize rewarded the finest literature in a particular genre (romantic fiction—a "love story," or more generally speaking, "women's fiction") each year for both its pop fiction appeal and literary fiction merit.
In 2010, the format received revision to expand beyond just Romantic Fiction. The Brontë Prize is now awarded in two categories: Romantic Fiction and Women’s Fiction. The award's scope has also increased, from just North American titles to stories published in English from around the globe, excluding translations. The timeline for the 2010 award has expanded as well, allowing any publishing date to compete for the prize, while 2011 will see a return to those titles published only in a specific calendar year. (Jury)
To nominate a title, click here.
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