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Rocky Mountain Press
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Hive Earns Double Finalist Honors in 2025 Independent Author Network Book of the Year Awards
Lahaina, Hawaii — November 14, 2025
Rocky Mountain Press is proud to announce that Hive, the first novel in DL Orton’s Madders of Time series, has been named a Finalist in two categories of the 2025 Independent Author Network (IAN) Book of the Year Awards, earning the novel its first major literary recognition:
- Science Fiction
- Science Fiction / Dystopian / Post-Apocalyptic
The Independent Author Network Book of the Year Awards recognize outstanding books from independent authors and publishers around the world, honoring excellence in storytelling, originality, and professional publishing.
Hive continues to earn recognition for its blend of high-concept science fiction, emotional depth, and compelling characters. The novel follows humanity’s last survivors as they struggle to escape a dying Earth, only to discover that altering the past may come at an unimaginable cost. Combining time travel, survival, and unforgettable relationships, Hive launches the Madders of Time series with a story that explores how love, sacrifice, and impossible choices can reshape history itself.
“This recognition from the Independent Author Network is especially meaningful because it celebrates the creativity and dedication of independent authors and publishers,” said DL Orton. “I’m honored that Hive has been recognized alongside so many exceptional works.”
The Independent Author Network recognition marked the beginning of Hive‘s award journey, highlighting the novel’s blend of emotionally rich storytelling, compelling characters, and thought-provoking science fiction. Since its release, readers have praised the novel for its natural dialogue, unforgettable relationships, and imaginative exploration of love, survival, and the consequences of changing the past.
About Hive
The first novel in the Madders of Time series, Hive is a science fiction thriller that blends time travel, survival, and unforgettable characters. In Earth’s dying final days, humanity’s last survivors must risk everything on an impossible mission to change the past. As love, sacrifice, and the consequences of altering history collide, Hive explores how even the smallest choices can echo across generations.
Hive is available in ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook editions wherever books are sold.
About the Author
DL Orton is the award-winning author of the acclaimed Between Two Evils series and the Madders of Time saga. Her novels blend science fiction, suspense, time travel, and deeply human stories that explore love, sacrifice, and humanity’s resilience in the face of existential threats. Her work has received recognition from numerous literary award programs, including the Independent Press Awards, Eric Hoffer Awards, and IndieReader Discovery Awards.
About Rocky Mountain Press
Rocky Mountain Press is an independent publisher dedicated to bringing readers exceptional fiction across science fiction, suspense, time travel, and speculative fiction. Its catalog showcases award-winning authors and imaginative stories that combine unforgettable characters with compelling storytelling.
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For review copies, author interviews, or additional information, please contact publisher@rockymtpress.com.