International Impact Book Awards Gala - Phoenix

The International Impact Book Awards Gala was truly unforgettable.

From the moment I stepped into the ballroom, I was struck by the energy and excitement in the air. Writers from around the world had gathered to celebrate the power of imagination and the art of storytelling.

The room shimmered with elegance, and every corner seemed alive with conversation, laughter and the quiet hum of anticipation. It was a gathering of dreamers, creators and visionaries, all united by the belief that stories have the power to change the world.

I was deeply honored to receive the Fantasy Category award for my book, Everlasting. Standing among so many talented authors, I felt a profound appreciation for the dedication, creativity and collaboration that make moments like this possible. Every author in that room had poured their heart into their work, and yet, in that instant, I was reminded that storytelling is not a competition, it is a shared journey.

IIBA - Nim Stant

Writing Everlasting has been a journey of its own. Fantasy, by nature, requires a leap of imagination, a willingness to build worlds that do not exist, yet feel real enough for readers to inhabit. The process is a constant dialogue between what exists in your mind and what actually comes alive on the page. It is full of uncertainties, moments when the story refuses to cooperate, characters take unexpected turns, or entire plotlines collapse under their own weight. And yet, it is also full of moments of clarity and discovery… and standing at the gala, holding that award, I experienced one of those moments.

The evening itself was magical in every sense. Beyond the awards, it was a celebration of creativity, resilience, and the impact stories can have on readers’ hearts and minds. Conversations flowed effortlessly as I connected with fellow authors, exchanging insights and stories behind our stories. I heard firsthand about the challenges, triumphs, and personal victories that accompany the writing journey. It was a reminder that behind every book lies not just words on a page, but months (or even years) of persistence, growth, and belief in one’s vision.

Winning this award for Everlasting is more than a personal milestone. It is a validation of the countless hours spent crafting a world, developing characters, and chasing the elusive spark that makes a story resonate. It is a recognition that fantasy can move, inspire, and leave a lasting impression, not just as entertainment, but as a lens through which we explore the human experience.

As the gala came to a close, I left with a renewed sense of purpose and inspiration.

Experiences like this remind me why I write: to imagine boldly and to touch others through stories that stand the test of time.

To anyone who dreams of creating, writing, or sharing their stories: keep going.

The journey may be uncertain, the path winding, but moments like the International Impact Book Awards Gala are proof that the worlds we imagine can leave a real, lasting impact.

Everlasting has found its place among stories that matter and for that, I am truly grateful.

Best,

Sara Fanfarillo