On her blog today she talks about the thrill of receiving this news as well as the difficulty for new authors of getting their work to stand out in an international market. And in fact, as she told The Bookman, a Southern Hemisphere authored book has never yet won a Gemmell Award, although several have been shortlisted. So if you enjoy Helen's work or would simply like to support a NZ book abroad, you can read all about it Here— as well as how to vote in the final round of this international, reader's choice award."