David Leahey

David Leahey – Designer

Illustrator and designer with many years of experience, specializing in the science-fiction and fantasy genres.

Overview

I am an experienced freelance illustrator and book cover designer. I specialize in the science fiction, fantasy and horror genres but can apply my skills to any and all genres.

For the last few years I have predominantly been working in book cover design and illustration and have worked with a broad range of clients from across the globe.

I am friendly, communicative and love to collaborate with clients throughout the design process to deliver the best possible outcome. I can create stand-alone illustrations for any project, whether it be a trading card, book cover, interior illustrations or comic books.

I am also a qualified Graphic Designer and love to blend elements of design and typography into my work. If you are on a limited budget and need a complete cover design I am more than happy to deliver the full package from start to finish.

Please find below a full breakdown of all the service I offer:

- Book cover design (including print and e-book)

- Book cover illustration

- Interior illustration

- Comic book illustration (cover & interior)

- Map design

- Typography (custom and semi-custom)

- Advertising material (including social media banners)

I also provide ad hoc art and design services, so if you require something not listed above please feel free to ask.

Services
Fiction
Action & Adventure Comics & Graphic Novels Contemporary Fiction Fantasy Historical Fiction Science Fiction Thriller & Suspense Young Adult
Languages
English
Certifications
  • HND - Higher National Diploma in Graphic Design
  • ND - National Diploma in General Art & Design

Work experience

Self-employed

Mar, 2013 — Present
I have been providing freelance illustration and design services for a diverse range of clients.

Portfolio

Cover Design
Hypgnosium: The Herculus Trilogy Book 1

Sanderson, J.E.R.

Kybosh Media Ltd

Cover Design
House of Dust (The Thirteen Fractures Book 1)

Elliott, K.R.

Forensic Mythopolitik Press

Cover Design
Cover Design Illustration Typography
Cover Design Illustration Typography
Cover Design Illustration Typography
Cover Design Illustration Typography
Cover Design Illustration Typography
Cover Design Illustration Typography
Cover Design Illustration Typography
LEO & FANG

Edward A. Stabler

Ty Hopefin shares a rental house on the outskirts of Washington, DC with two fellow millennials. When the friendly cat who roams his cul-de-sac succumbs to a recently discovered virus, he trie... read more
Cover Design Illustration Typography
Cover Design Typography
Cover Design Illustration Typography
Mercury Rising

Greene, R.W.W.

Cover Design Typography
Inspired by the novel 'Betrayal' this short (8 page) graphic novel will be part one of a trilogy that asks the fundamental question - what punishment does an emperor mete out when the man he a... read more
Cover Design Illustration Typography

David has 131 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Eric C.

Eric C.

May, 2026

Pinned
Very easy to work with, very pleased with the end product.
Natalie M.

Natalie M.

May, 2026

Pinned
I adore the cover David has made--it came out so much better than I expected, and although I personally felt the specifications/design I asked for could have been quite complicated, the cover made it look easy. He was responsive and patient when I asked questions about things I didn't understand....
Read more
Clifton H.

Clifton H.

May, 2026

Pinned
Working with David has been a wonderful experience. Not only did he listen to my ideas, he provided several renditions to choose from, allowing me to decide which direction I wanted to go with it. I will definitely be seeking his help with future projects.
Michele K.

Michele K.

Sep, 2026

David is phenomenal. This is the second cover he's done for me, and it won't be the last. His creativity and style are unmatched, and working with him is a joy. I feel so fortunate that I found him.
Rachel S.

Rachel S.

Aug, 2026

The project experienced several delays along the way, but the finished cover was absolutely beautiful and worth highlighting. The final design captured the feel of the book wonderfully, and it has become one of the elements readers comment on most often when I share the book on social media. I’m...
Read more

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