Romance writer Donna Kauffman, author of more than 70 novels, which have been translated and published in 26 countries, died April 9. She was 60. "It is with incredibly heavy hearts that we must share the news of a loss in our Kensington family," Kensington Publishing said. "Donna was a beloved member of our family, and we are sending thoughts, prayers, and love to her friends and family at this time. We encourage you to read more about Donna, and visit the donation link for ProLiteracy her friends have created in her name."
A native of Washington, D.C., Kauffman ultimately called the Blue Ridge Mountains home, where she drew inspiration for her novels--including the setting of her final work, Under a Firefly Moon, which was released January 28, USA Today reported. Her romance novel series include Blue Hollow Falls, the Brides and Bachelors of Blueberry Cove, Cupcake Club, and Glass Slipper, Inc.
Alicia Condon, Kauffman's book editor, said: "Donna had a special gift for telling tender, uplifting stories while offering a uniquely insightful glimpse at the human condition. She made a world where every character was important and where love always wins the day."
Author Sonali Dev, who had worked with Kauffman on a recent book box set, observed: "Her last message to us was one of hope about how much better she was feeling. I was not prepared for this at all. She was the most upbeat, relentless, tireless cheerleader of our little group, with nothing but words of wisdom, support, and sometimes plain blind faith in us no matter how defeated we felt by this business and our private lives."
In a statement, author Nora Roberts said, "My friend Donna had a laugh that rolled right up out of her belly, the sort you'd recognize as hers from across the room. She was warm and funny, independent and hard-working. Knowing she's no longer in the world is a hard, sharp loss."