Secondhand Sight, my second novel as "Rocky" Leonard, has been named one of six finalists in the Fiction/Horror category in the 2013 Readers' Favorite International Awards. This honor would not be possible without the efforts and skill of my editors, proof readers, copy editors, cover designers, and all those who helped me produce these three books that have been deemed worthy of finalist recognition. This year I'm blessed to have three books remaining in competition in three different categories, with Secondhand Sight joining Always a Next One and Counterargument for God! One Readers' Favorite reviewer wrote about this novel: The plot is deceptively simple because it is so ingenious. Dan’s descent into a manic paranoia is skillfully documented, and one feels for him in the mental confusion that accompanies his visions. The author also includes some interesting thoughts on the nature of dreams, hallucinations, psychometry (psychic revelations via touching objects), and the power of the mind. Murder mystery and paranormal fans will love this book. Last year I learned the hard way that a five-star review doesn't guarantee a novel will become a finalist. I know that I'm very fortunate for this opportunity. Coastal Empire never made it this far. … [Read more...]
Always a Next One: finalist in Reader’s Favorite contest
My book Always a Next One: true stories of dog fostering has been named one of four finalists in the Non Fiction/Animals category for the 2013 Readers' Favorite International Award contest. It's a great honor just to have made it this far. Authors from all over the world enter the contest each year. More books and authors entered this year's contest than ever before. One Readers' Favorite review said the following: "Always a Next One" is a wonderfully written story of a family's involvement with taking in foster animals until their permanent homes are found. Readers who like Herriot's animal stories will be drawn to John Leonard's writings and will want to read more than the sample chapter of dog stories featuring Leonard's beloved Ox at the book's end.The writing in each story is consistent and not maudlin and the animals' characters come through believably. Simone the cat is a cat, not a human in disguise. However, this year's competition is more formidable than ever. The other three finalists also earned five star reviews. Furthermore, the judges may decide none of the finalists merited the gold medal. Just because the medals exist for each category doesn't mean they must be awarded. The winners will be announced September 1st. Finalists are introduced and invited to the stage. Gold, Silver, and Bronze Medalists also receive a physical award. The banquet will be held November 23rd in Miami, timed to coincide with the Miami Book Festival International. A visit to Miami in November sounds really nice! … [Read more...]
