The 2025 Literary Awards Program – What Happens Next?

It’s the big day! The submission window for the 2025 Literary Awards Program closes tonight at midnight (Central Time). If you’re still planning to enter, you’ve got a little time, but don’t wait. Our reviewers are already digging into the amazing books you’ve entrusted to us. As we head into the next phase, here are the key reminders and dates to keep in mind:

📌 ALL READING MATERIALS ARE DUE: DECEMBER 31, 2025

If you elected to submit print copies and they are not received by this deadline, we’ll need a digital version to keep your entry active. As noted in the guidelines, missing materials after December 31 will result in disqualification (entry fees are non-refundable).

Submitting everything on time helps us keep the entire awards schedule running smoothly. Late or incomplete entries can delay finalist and winner announcements.

What Happens Next

We know you’re excited for updates and we’re working hard to get every book the attention it deserves. We did receive a wave of last-minute entries, so while this is the timeline we’re aiming for, it may shift slightly depending on volume.

• Reviews: Posted as they’re completed (many of you already have yours).
• Review Completion Goal: End of January 2026.
• Final Judging Phase: End of February 2026
• Finalists & Winners Announced: Mid/late March 2026.

Every submission is read in full by real reviewers who take the time to consider strengths, impact, and overall quality. This is a reviewer-driven awards program — thoughtful reading and reviewing takes time, and that’s how it should be.

A Big Thank You

Putting a book out into the world is brave. Every story adds something meaningful to the indie publishing landscape, and it’s our privilege to shine a spotlight on your work. Not every title will place but every book matters, and we appreciate the heart and hard work behind each one.

Good luck to all, and thank you for being part of this year’s program!

Warm regards,
Sheri Hoyte & Susan Violante