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Latest Winners / Recipients

Year: 2024

winner y separately published work icon The Man from Shadow Creek Rachel Armstrong , Australia : Pink Paws Publishing , 2023 28596815 2023 single work novel

'Can the spirited doctor help the troubled bad boy shed his reputation and feel worthy of her love?

'Adam Maguire wore the title of Elizadale's bad boy with pride, until he woke in the park with no memory of the night before. Fearing the unknown, Adam re-evaluates his history of reckless behaviour and determines to focus on building a business out of his passion for woodwork. But with his ex determined to lure him back, Adam doubts he'll ever escape his past.

'Doctor Natalia Hamilton has left the city after suffering harassment that left her confidence shattered. Reunited with her sister in Elizadale, Natalia hopes the small town vibe will help her rediscover the value of her work. Dating is the last thing on her mind when she's been constantly burned by romance. Until Adam rides in on his motorcycle and takes her breath away.

'As sparks ignite between the unlikely couple, Adam and Natalia begin to trust again. But when a story about his forgotten night is revealed, can Adam determine the truth from a web of lies? Or is it already too late for him to start over?'

Source: Publisher's blurb.

Year: 2023

Other finalists include: Frances Cowie : Hampton Lane (NZ)
winner y separately published work icon Larapinta Annie Seaton , Australia : Annie Seaton , 2022 25155603 2022 single work novel romance

'At a crossroads in her life, Sandra Porter knows she must find the courage to find her true self. She has lost her husband in tragic circumstances, and seen each of her adult children overcome adversity. Deciding it's time to push her boundaries, she makes a booking to trek the Larapinta Walk across the centre of the remote Northern Territory.

'World renowned nature photographer, Graysen Hughes has come to the outback seeking solace after the death of his wife. Always a loner, Graysen isn't happy when the tour guide insists on the participants walking in pairs. At least Sandra Porter is quiet and keeps to herself.

'After a suspicious accident and the sudden disappearance of their guide, the group struggles on, but then another accident occurs. It soon becomes obvious that someone doesn't want them to complete the trek. Without any means to call for help, Graysen and Sandra flee into the bush in an attempt to stay safe.

'Can they survive the wilderness in the heat and the rugged conditions, and can they both keep their hearts intact as they learn to rely on each other?' (Publication summary)

Year: 2022

winner y separately published work icon Sweetheart Sarah Mayberry , United States of America (USA) : Heart Eyes Press , 2021 24959878 2021 single work novel romance

'I just wanted to get my hands on his beans

'Four years ago, I had a ridiculous crush on my sister's boyfriend. But when they moved away together, I put Beck out of my mind and my heart. But now he's back, and roasting the best coffee in Vermont. I need to convince him to supply the Busy Bean. And I need more of those kisses we accidentally shared outside the coffee shop. He still makes my heart race faster than a triple shot of espresso. 

'She should be off limits, but instead she's pushing mine

'Her sister burned my life to the ground, so Haley Elliot is the last woman I should bring into my bed. Although our business relationship is giving way to something more than a fine grind. Neither of us can help ourselves. And what’s worse, I think I’m falling for her.

'But it’s a small town, and ours is a big secret. And when her sister blows back into town, suddenly the coffee isn’t the only thing brewing...'

Source: Publisher's blurb.

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