By Jordan Puckett
Sun staff

Peter Leonard, crime novelist from Birmingham, Michigan, will be at the Williamsburg branch of the Clermont County Public Library 7 p.m. August 1 as part of the All Access Author Series.

Leonard will be giving a talk about the writing process, developing a distinct voice and style, research, finding a literary agent, and more.

Leonard is the son of famous crime writer Elmore Leonard. Several of the elder Leonard’s novels have been made into full length films, including 52 Pick-Up, Touch, and Get Shorty.

The movie Three-Ten to Yuma was adapted from Elmore Leonard’s short story of the same name.

Peter Leonard has had five novels published since his first, Quiver, was published in 2009. Prior to writing novels, Leonard had worked as an advertisment writer for 25 years.

He said in an interview with his faher that he started work on his first novel out of boredom. He soon discovered that he found great joy in writing.

“Writing fiction has set me free,” Leonard said in an email. “It wasn’t work, it was fun. I finished my second novel, Trust Me, and a year later, quit my advertising job and I’ve never looked back.”

“We’re really looking forward to having him,” said Shawn Fry, manager of the Williamsburg Branch. “The library will be closed, so the whole building will be focused on this program.”

In the past six months, Leonard has visited eight small town libraries in his home state of Michigan.

“Libraries typically attract intelligent, well-read audiences that ask the best questions,” he said.

Leonard will be available for questions following his talk. Refreshments will be provided at the event.

To reserve a spot for this free program, call the Williamsburg Branch at (513) 724-1070.

The event is for adults ages 18 and up.