Local author wins american fiction award for debut novel Unbroken Grace
Eastern North Carolina author Venita Wright-Blake, who writes under the pen name Wright Blake, has been named the winner of the 2026 American Fiction Award in the Religious Thriller category for her debut novel, Unbroken Grace.
Presented annually by American BookFest, the American Fiction Awards recognize outstanding works across a wide range of fiction genres. Unbroken Grace received the top honor in the Religious Thriller category, marking Wright Blake's first national literary award. This is Wright Blake's first published novel.
Blending suspense, mystery, faith, and redemption, Unbroken Grace follows Grace Lawson and Detective Isaiah King as they become entangled in a series of murders that challenge not only their courage, but also their faith. While the novel keeps readers turning pages with unexpected twists and suspense, its central message is one of hope - that even in life's darkest seasons, God remains present and faithful.
Wright began writing Unbroken Grace after walking through the loss of her husband. Through the novel, she hopes to create a story that would entertain readers while also reminding them that faith and hope can endure through life's greatest hardships.
"Winning this award is truly humbling, and it is an incredible honor," Wright said. "My greatest hope has always been that every reader who finishes Unbroken Grace walks away with the understanding that even in life's hardest moments, we can still hold on to our faith and to hope. Scripture reminds us that God draws near to the brokenhearted, and I believe faith becomes most meaningful when it is tested and we choose to hold onto Him. My hope is that this award encourages more people to pick up the book - not because of the recognition itself, but because I hope they encounter a story that reminds them of God's love in difficult seasons, joyful seasons, and everything in between."
Since its release, Unbroken Grace has found a growing audience throughout eastern North Carolina. The novel has been featured at local author events, placed in independent bookstores, and recently sold through its initial inventory at a local bookstore, resulting in a reorder. Readers have praised the novel for its compelling mystery, memorable characters, and inspiring message of faith.
For Wright Blake, the award represents not only a significant milestone in her writing career but also an opportunity for more readers to discover a story centered on hope, perseverance, and the steadfast love of God.
Readers will have an opportunity to meet Wright Blake during a book signing on Saturday, August 15 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Between the Lines Bookstore, 144 N. Center Street in Goldsboro.
For more information about Unbroken Grace, upcoming events, or Wright Blake, visit www.wrightblakeauthor.com or follow Wright Blake on Facebook.
2026 American Fiction Awards: Press Release
https://www.americanbookfest.com/2026afapressrelease.html
2026 American Fiction Awards: Full Results
https://www.americanbookfest.com/2026afafullresults.html
American Book Fest (130,000+ Book Lovers):
