The Indie Author Project is thrilled to announce Cynthia Swanson of the Denver Public Library (CO) as the 2025 Indie Author of the Year. Now in its seventh year, this annual award honors exceptional indie authors whose work exemplifies quality, creativity, and community impact within the world of independent publishing.

Each year, one winner is selected from a group of authors who have had their titles chosen by librarian judging committees as the best indie-published ebooks through the preceding year’s Indie Author Project annual contests. The Indie Author of the Year is chosen by a team of industry experts on the basis of marketability, overall impact, personal brand, and potential for the author to break out.

Cynthia’s psychological suspense novel Anyone But Her, winner of the 2024 Mystery/Thriller category in the Indie Author Project Annual Contest, stood out for its gripping narrative, layered characters, and elegant command of tension. Already an accomplished novelist, Cynthia brought her deep experience in traditional publishing into the indie space with remarkable success.

Cynthia distinguished herself not only through her writing, but also through her generosity, mentorship, and enthusiasm for helping other authors navigate their publishing paths. As she continues her work on a new novel and a short story collection, she remains committed to uplifting fellow writers and expanding what’s possible within the world of independent publishing.

Below, you’ll find more about Cynthia’s background, notable works, and links to follow her online.