Szilvia Sandberg Earns Global Recognition from Independent Press Award

Szilvia Sandberg’s novel “Blinding White” has been recognized as a Distinguished Favorite in the Thriller category at the 2026 Independent Press Award. This story delves into the realms of scientific discovery and corruption, engaging readers in a thrilling narrative that explores the fine line between truth and the sacrifices made for it.

The plot follows Australian detective Richard Wright, whose life takes a sudden turn when a renowned Middle Eastern doctor, on the brink of winning the Nobel Prize, tragically ends his life by jumping off a cliff in the Swiss mountains. Hired by a powerful businessman, Richard embarks on a journey to uncover the mysteries surrounding the doctor’s death, leading him into a web of deceit, corporate corruption, and ruthless competition within the realms of international politics and business.

As Richard delves deeper into the investigation, he unravels a complex tapestry of intrigue that stretches from Geneva to the Middle East and South America. Along the way, he must also grapple with personal issues, learning to trust others as he races against time to safeguard the legacy of a brilliant researcher and usher in a new era in medicine.

“Blinding White” raises thought-provoking questions about the costs of progress, the justifiability of exploitation for the greater good, and the enduring pursuit of truth in the face of adversity. Against a backdrop of stock market manipulation, deep-rooted secrets, and the interplay of past and present, Richard navigates a dangerous landscape where the stakes are high, and the consequences dire.

The 2026 Independent Press Award showcased a diverse range of authors and publishers from across the globe, celebrating independent voices that are shaping the literary landscape. Among the winners were notable names like Brad Feld, Judith Briles, and Tony Jeton Selimi, reflecting the growing influence of the independent publishing sector in driving literary innovation and excellence.

Szilvia Sandberg, the author of “Blinding White,” brings her unique perspective as a passionate world traveler, researcher, and compliance expert to the narrative. Drawing on her experiences at the United Nations and international corporations, she infuses the novel with insights into business ethics, human rights, and the complexities of modern development.

Through “Blinding White,” Sandberg aims to tackle pressing issues of our time, from technological advancements to economic development, sparking conversations and reflections on the intersections of power, ethics, and progress. Her debut fiction work stands as a testament to her commitment to making a difference through storytelling and engaging readers in a thrilling exploration of the human experience.

The Independent Press Award, a prestigious annual book awards program, honors excellence in the independent publishing community, recognizing the contributions of self-published authors, small presses, and university presses worldwide. The awards ceremony, a highlight of the publishing calendar, celebrates the recipients of both the Independent Press Award and the NYC Big Book Award, bringing together literary luminaries to showcase the best in independent publishing.