Congratulations to all of our Best of the Net nominees! Every year, it is always so difficult to choose just 6 poems from an array of beautiful selections. I am so proud of all of our BHR contributors. Please know that I take great care in reading and re-reading issues, before making choices. So thankful to have the opportunity to publish such remarkable work by poets from across North America and around the world.
BHR Issue 8 Summer 2017 (release date, end of July 2017)
1. Emily Bowles / “A Scale, My Fate”
2. Gail Tirone / “If Not for Grace”
3. Kristen Baum DeBeasi / “African Violets”
4. Kelsey Dean / “Paper Stars”
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BHR Issue 9 Winter 2018 (release date, end of February 2018)
1. Prerna Bakshi / “Watching my father make paper boats”
2. Maryann Hurtt / “Born Again”
Cristina M. R. Norcross
Founding Editor
Blue Heron Review
Blue Heron Review 
Considering the depth of beauty always contained within your journals the decision would be hard for any mere mortal. “Congratulations to all,” fine choices and a pleasure to read.
Dear Pd, Thank you for being such a kind supporter of Blue Heron Review and a valued contributor. It is a pleasure and an honor to showcase the work of such fine poets and artists (like you!). Always lovely to hear from you. Cristina M. R. Norcross