“In his latest collection of poetry published by Broken Wing Publishing, in the poem the book is titled from, Leys writes; ‘They all want a hero /Not an uncommon want, it seems/ But in whom does a hero confide/ The true darkness of his dreams?’ It is this early poem that speaks loudest of Leys intention with this poetry collection. He’s expressing how difficult it is to meet expectations and irrespective, whom do you tell of your real feelings?”

Candice Louisa Daquin, Senior Editor at Indie Blu(e) Publishing and author of A Jar for the Jarring. Read the full review here.

“Leys is a poet whose work is imbued with lyrical rhythm. Throughout this book, Leys’ words sing and his passion for the written word leaps from the pages… Thus, Leys flits delicately between grief, melancholy, joy, cynicism and hopeful hilarity. Leys is eclectic and he writes what he wants to write; a quality I admire greatly.”

Kristiana Reed, author of Between the Trees and Flowers on the Wall. Read the full review here.

“To read the words of John W. Leys is an honor. He shares with his readers the absolute depths of himself, and I respect that as both a human being, and a writer. My favorite poem in The Darkness of His Dreams is ‘Kaddish for Karen Leys.’ This piece is Leys bared soul at its best. The heart stunning loss of his beloved mother and the grief he feels is communicated with raw emotion and tenderness–my skin is chilled every time I read it.”

Kindra M. Austin, Senior Editor at Indie Blu(e) Publishing and author of I am a war. and All the Beginnings of Everything. Read the full review here.