Olawu has been submitted to the BookLife Prize fiction contest, and the Critic Report is officially in. The BookLife Prize is an annual writing competition sponsored by BookLife and Publishers Weekly. Prizes are awarded to self-published or unpublished independent authors, and winners will be announced in December.

Each submission is initially judged by the professional book reviewers of Publishers Weekly and given an evaluation called a Critic’s Report. Each Critic’s Report consists of a brief written critical assessment of the novel, as well as a rating–on a one to 10 scale–of the book’s strengths and weaknesses in characterization, plot, prose/style, originality, and overall strength.

Olawu received high marks for prose, plot, characterization, and originality, scoring a 9.5 out of 10 overall.

A page turner that will leave readers both inspired by Olawu and rooting for her success.

Leigh’s novel is fine-tuned, with a captivating storyline and impeccable pacing.

Olawu is a beautifully constructed character, with a quiet self-confidence that serves as a strong foundation throughout her experiences—and eventually leads her to success.

You can read the full critic report here.

I’m excited to see my debut so well received, and I’ll be running a digital promotion in September to celebrate. Download Olawu on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Google Books, and other ebook retailers for just 99 cents until September 21st! Olawu’s story is available across multiple formats from retailers, libraries, and wholesalers, both in the US and abroad, many of which are listed here. Discover your next great read!