WHEN LOVE CALLS

GAIL MCFARLAND

Runner-up

FOR KEEPS/Janice Sims

WHEN LOVE CALLS:  Innovative plot, great couple. Gail McFarland's writing in this books reaches a level of emotional intensity that is not often seen in romance fiction. This book is simply magical. (W.J & G.O)

FOR KEEPS:  This is one I can (and have) read over and over. Janice wrote an intelligent, fresh, contemporary story that had me hooked from the very first sentence. (M.S)

GWYNNE FORSTER

Runner-up

Brenda Jackson

GWYNNE FORSTER: Rebounded from 1998 and two heroines (Susan and Della) Gwen didn't like as people (I'm in totally agreement), Ms. Forster produced several solid romances, including a novella in the bride's anthology, and stepped out to write her first interracial, AGAINST THE WIND, -- one that didn't pander to the formulaic plots such books usually have. (W.J & G.O)

BRENDA JACKSON: FIRE AND ICE, SOMETHING TO CELEBRATE, AND SECRET LOVE--I know that is technically a 2000 book, but still and all she had a tremendous year. She wrote some beautiful stories and laid the foundation for many more which is why she is such a favorite. She has created her own world of romance and sensuality and gives us all open-ended one way tickets to enjoy the tour....I ain't mad at her!

DEIRDRE SAVOY

Runner-up - Shirley Harrison

DEIRDRE SAVOY:  A stunning debut novel that demonstrated a writer of immense talent.  Gwen and I loved different. Dee Savoy has what you aptly called "a voice." Her writing is clean and fresh and took us somewhere different, but somewhere simply wonderful. (W.J & G.O)

SHIRLEY HARRISON: The woman can write! She is a fresh, exciting voice who does wonderful things in romance. She is a much more skilled writer than some of those who have been around for years, plus she creates vivid characters and great dialogue. I look forward to reading her for a long, long, time. (M.S)

UNTIL THERE WAS YOU

FRANCIS RAY

Despite its sexiness, there is something simply tender about the cover of this book.  Maybe it's the warm, gentle colors, or maybe it's just the way the heroine is leaning against the hero.  When Gwen saw the cover, she sent Francis Ray an e-mail with just two words: "Damn, Francis." (W.J., G.O. & M.S.)