I am incredibly honored to announce that Inheritance of Silence has officially been nominated for two prestigious Storytrade Book Awards: 

•  Contemporary Fiction 
•  Storytrade Book Prodigy: Best Debut 

As a debut novelist, receiving recognition in both categories is deeply meaningful. Inheritance of Silence was written from a place of vulnerability, resilience, and truth — a story centered on survival, identity, grief, healing, and the courage to reclaim your voice after silence.
 
To see this story resonate with readers, reviewers, and award organizations is something I do not take lightly.
 
These nominations arrive during an extraordinary season of growth surrounding the novel, including:

•  The official release of the book through Austin Macauley Publishers 
•  Expanding retail availability 
•  Reader discussions and livestream events 
•  Author interviews and media opportunities 
•  Recognition as a finalist for the 2026 International Impact Book Awards Author of the Year in Contemporary Fiction 

This journey has reminded me that stories born from pain can still become stories of hope.
 
Thank you to every reader, reviewer, supporter, friend, and fellow creator who has helped bring this moment to life. Your encouragement means more than words can adequately express.
 
This is only the beginning.
 
— John Erik Dunnam