‘Evergreen’ named an indie book award finalist

Evergreen,” the debut novel from local author Anne Crown, published by Byzantium Sky Press, was one of eight finalists in first novel between 70,000 and 90,000 words category for the Next Generation Indie Book Awards.

Released in 2022, the unusual love story of twists and turns has become a popular choice for book club discussions.

“I think the allure of ‘Evergreen’ gave the novel everything it needed to place in this contest. I remember the first time I read it; it transported me to France. I wanted to jump on a plane to Provence,” said Crystal Heidel, Byzantium Sky Press owner. “I found something to relate to in every step Emma took in her journey, from her emotional turmoil to the lush French settings. It has something for everyone who has ever fallen in love.”

Emma, a travel writer, and her sister return to Evergreen, their childhood home, to bury their mother. While there, Emma begins to unravel emotions and relationships that take her on a journey through the past. When searching through family trinkets, heirlooms and lost items, she finds her old diary and reflects on her own life and dreams to find the answers and meaning to choices she’s made concerning love.

Haunted by the memory of her true love, Emma feels helpless to move into the future without some resolution of the past, until her heart opens to an unexpected romance with a young vintner she meets while working on a story in Provence. She can't decide how to move ahead until fate steps in and takes her full circle, making an unforeseen choice for her.

A native of Virginia, Crown moved to Rehoboth Beach in 2002, where she has continued to pursue her interests in poetry, writing and art. She has traveled and painted extensively throughout the United States and Europe, where she developed an affinity for Provence. She’s a member of the Rehoboth Beach Writers’ Guild.

The NGIBA program was established to honor the most exceptional independently published books in 80 different categories each year. The judges include expert editors, writers and publishers as well as professional book designers.

“Evergreen” is available at Browseabout Books in Rehoboth Beach, at online booksellers and via the publisher’s website, byzantiumskypress.com.

For more information or to contact the author, email ByzantiumSkyPress@gmail.com.