Apply to judge the inaugural Vivian Awards! 

October 1, 2020

Romance Writers of America is seeking romance authors, booksellers, librarians, reviewers, and critics to judge the inaugural year of RWA's Vivian Awards! A new award for a new era, The Vivian recognizes excellence in romance writing and showcases author talent and creativity. The award celebrates the power of the romance genre with its central message of hope--because happily-ever-afters are for everyone.

Judges must have a deep love for and knowledge of romance fiction and believe that everyone deserves a happily ever after. The ideal judge will be able to provide a fair assessment of all assigned books and will abide by RWA’s core values and anti-discrimination policy.

RWA General and Associate-Writer members, non-member authors of romance fiction, current and former booksellers and librarians, book reviewers, and professional critics whose applications have been submitted and accepted are eligible to judge Rounds One and Two. Current and former booksellers and librarians, book reviewers, and professional critics whose applications have been submitted and accepted are eligible to judge Round Three. 

Authors who enter The Vivian are NOT required to judge. 

Applications are open until October 23, 2020, and all applicants will be notified of their selection status by November 3, 2020. Selected judges will be required to complete judge training. Read more about the judging process and eligibility requirements here. Contact [email protected] with questions.

Vivian Judge Application