The RITA Award is the highest award presented by Romance Writers of America for a published novel. A limited number of golden statuettes are granted during a formal ceremony each year at the national convention. Named after RWA's first president, Rita Clay Estrada, the award is a prestigious symbol of success and distinction. I am fortunate to be one of the judges. Judges, who are volunteers from the membership, are allowed to select three contest categories. I look forward to receiving my box of books each January. It’s like receiving a surprise gift in the mail. Six books, freshly packed, for my enjoyment! I’m reading the first one now, and it’s pure delight. I can’t wait to tackle the rest of them. I guess this is how reviewers feel, although they must get inundated. We’re all book lovers, and once addicted, you can never have enough books in your collection! RWA’s national conference begins July 30th in San Francisco. Good luck to all contestants!