Celebrating Excellence: Justin Allen Price Earns Voice Arts Award Nomination for Talmadge Farm

Nothing excites us more than seeing a story we believe in rise to new heights. That’s exactly what’s happening with Leo Daughtry’s powerful debut novel, Talmadge Farm—a project that began its journey through The Writers Lifeline, where we worked closely with Leo to help shape, refine, and prepare the manuscript for publication.  We’re thrilled to share that the audiobook edition of Talmadge Farm, narrated by the exceptional Justin Allen Price, has earned a nomination from the Society of Voice Arts and Sciences (SOVAS) for Outstanding Audiobook Narration – Fiction. This nomination places Justin among industry greats, including Martin Sheen and Matthew McConaughey, who appear across other categories. Winners will be announced at the January gala in Beverly Hills.

From Manuscript to Award Recognition

Leo Daughtry’s story first took root at The Writers Lifeline, where he developed the narrative with our editorial and creative support. From there, the book became part of the StoryMerchant Books publishing family—a natural next step in bringing this deeply personal historical novel to readers and listeners everywhere.

We take great pride in seeing a project that began with us continue to thrive, grow, and earn recognition on the national stage.

A Narrator Honored and Grateful

Justin Allen Price shared his heartfelt reaction to the nomination:

“I can’t even begin to describe the feelings I felt when I saw my name listed amongst such incredible people. Mostly, I feel out of my league, but I’m so happy to be doing this thing that I love. To everyone I’ve met along the way: thank you. Congrats to all my fellow nominees!
And thanks so much to SOVAS—and especially to Audio Sorceress and Leo Daughtry—for the opportunity to tell this incredible story.”

Justin’s humility and passion mirror the authenticity he brings to his performance—one that beautifully amplifies Leo’s writing.

Industry Praise Confirms the Impact

AudioFile Magazine praised the audiobook as

“a notable listening experience.”

Their review underscores the emotional richness, textured setting, and multigenerational drama that make Talmadge Farm a standout work of historical fiction.

A Shared Win for Story Merchant Books & The Writers Lifeline

This nomination is more than an individual achievement—it’s a milestone for everyone involved in the creative journey of Talmadge Farm. From early development through The Writers Lifeline, to publication with Story Merchant Books, to audiobook production with outstanding collaborators, this is a full-circle success story.

Experience Talmadge Farm for Yourself

👉  Ycan find the book here: Talmadge Farm or Listen on Amazon & Audible: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D3WW6BHL/

Congratulations once again to Justin Allen Price and Leo Daughtry. We are proud to have supported this book from its earliest pages and excited to see its continued recognition.