There are moments in every author's journey that feel surreal.
For years, writing was a deeply personal endeavor for me. It was a way to process experiences, examine difficult truths, and tell stories that deserved to be heard. I never could have imagined that those quiet hours spent writing would eventually lead to national and international recognition.
Today, I am honored and humbled to share that Inheritance of Silence is entering its first major award season.
Since its publication, the novel has been recognized by several respected literary award programs, earning nominations and finalist placements that celebrate both storytelling and the impact literature can have on readers.
Current Award Recognition
International Impact Book Awards
Finalist
- Author of the Year 2026 – Contemporary Fiction
American Writing Awards
Nominee
- LGBTQ+ Fiction
- Book of the Year
American Fiction Awards
Nominee
- LGBTQ+ Fiction
Storytrade Book Awards
Nominee
- Contemporary Fiction
- Prodigy Best Debut
Shakespeare Global Prize for Literary Excellence
Nominee
- Author of the Year
- Contemporary Fiction
As a debut novelist, receiving recognition from multiple award organizations within the first few months of publication is both exciting and deeply meaningful.
More Than Awards
While awards are certainly an honor, what matters most to me is the reason these recognitions exist in the first place: stories.
Inheritance of Silence was written to explore family, identity, healing, resilience, and the courage it takes to live authentically. The messages from readers who have found pieces of themselves within these pages continue to be the greatest reward of all.
Every nomination, every finalist placement, every review, and every reader conversation serves as a reminder that stories have the power to connect us in ways that transcend backgrounds, experiences, and generations.
Looking Ahead
The coming months promise to be incredibly exciting.
Award announcements are scheduled throughout the remainder of 2026, including:
- American Fiction Awards – July 2026
- Shakespeare Global Prize - August 2026
- Storytrade Book Awards – August 2026
- International Impact Book Awards – October 2026
- American Writing Awards – November 2026
No matter the outcomes, I am already grateful for the recognition Inheritance of Silence has received and for the incredible support from readers, friends, family, fellow authors, and members of the literary community.
This journey is still just beginning.
With House of Windows on the horizon and several additional writing projects currently in development, I look forward to continuing this adventure and sharing new stories with all of you.
Thank you for being part of this remarkable chapter.
Here's to great books, meaningful stories, and an unforgettable award season ahead.
— John Erik Dunnam
Author of Inheritance of Silence
Author of House of Windows