David Leahey

David Leahey - Designer

Peterborough, UK

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

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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.
Languages
English
Fiction
Action & Adventure
Comics & Graphic Novels
Contemporary Fiction
Fantasy
Historical Fiction
Science Fiction
Thriller & Suspense
Young Adult

Certifications

  • HND - Higher National Diploma in Graphic Design
  • ND - National Diploma in General Art & Design

Work experience

Freelance Illustrator

Self-employed
March, 2013 – Present (about 10 years)

I have been providing freelance illustration and design services for a diverse range of clients.

Portfolio (14 selected works)

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 tries to console his young neighbor, a wheelchair-bound girl who has lost her best friend.But Ty’s sympathy turns to suspicion after his housemate accidentally records a private meeting of animal-control vigi... read more

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 tries to console his young neighbor, a wheelchair-bound girl who has lost her best friend.But Ty’s sympathy turns to suspicion after his housemate accidentally records a private meeting of animal-control vigi... read more

Blood Animus

McKeon, Kyle

Centurions: Betrayal - The Raid

Anthony Riches

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 asked to revolt on his behalf takes that rebellion a step too far?

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 asked to revolt on his behalf takes that rebellion a step too far?

Russian Agents: The Clintons' Attack Against America

Dan Ashman

The Clintons have extensive ties to Moscow. It is the key to understanding modern developments in America: Uranium One, Hillary's Server, the witch hunt against Trump, the Awans, the Clinton Foundation, and more.

The Clintons have extensive ties to Moscow. It is the key to understanding modern developments in America: Uranium One, Hillary's Server, the witch hunt against Trump, the Awans, the Clinton Foundation, and more.

Pandemonium: Devourer of Souls

Derek Edgington

Pandemonium: Devourer of Souls is a short dark fantasy with a satirical side to it. Tired of the same old cliched hero? You're in luck. You won't find many people, human or otherwise, that fill the bill of a hero in Pandemonium. You will find, however, goddesses, immortals, demons, humans and other unmentionables in the underworld streets. Because it is short, you'll also be thrust into the mi... read more

Pandemonium: Devourer of Souls is a short dark fantasy with a satirical side to it. Tired of the same old cliched hero? You're in luck. You won't find many people, human or otherwise, that fill the bill of a hero in Pandemonium. You will find, however, goddesses, immortals, demons, humans and other unmentionables in the underworld streets. Because it is short, you'll also be thrust into the mi... read more

Mercury Rising

Greene, R.W.W.

David has 30 reviews

Professionalism
Professionalism
Quality
Quality
Value
Value
Communication & Punctuality
Communication & Punctuality

Alex Crown
Its always an excellent, rewarding, and professional experience working with Dave! Highly recommended!

Alex Crown, March 2023


Karl Ferguson
Dave was a joy to work with, he brought his own wonderful ideas, listened to mine, and produced work that I was absolutely delighted with. I couldn't recommend any higher.

Karl Ferguson, March 2023


Ben Buechel
As a first time author I was a bit skeptical about getting art done for the book I'd been writing, but David did an incredible job. Much to his talents, I didn't give much in terms of what exactly I wanted for the cover, mainly because I had never actually thought about what the cover would, and or, could be. David did an incredible job bringing to life something I've only ever seen in my head...
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Ben Buechel, March 2023


Zeke Ramazzo
David was professional and hardworking. I was satisfied with my result and the amount of work that went into one book cover. He took my feedback well and provided new revisions on a dime. The most critical part of the whole process is getting the idea in your head on paper, providing the concept to the artist, and giving feedback on how you want it done. David did wonderfully and added his styl...
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Zeke Ramazzo, December 2022


Warren Zaccaro
David was incredible to work with. The commission ended up going for a lot longer than expected, yet he stuck with me the whole time while maintaining a professional attitude and communicating perfectly clearly. The end product is absolutely fantastic, both the original commission and the alternate cover I commissioned after the fact, both great showcases of David's artistic talent. I would def...
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Warren Zaccaro, November 2022

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Kelly Carter

I love how good design can complete a writer's vision and make it engaging. Fantasy, thrillers, historical and fiction really get me going.

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