Leslie Hardy - Publisher
Leslie Hardy fell in love with crime fiction at a young age, discovering in the novels of Elmore Leonard just how sharp, surprising, funny, and deeply human stories about crime could be. She has been an avid reader ever since—and a firm believer in the power of story not only to entertain and illuminate, but to heal.
As Publisher of Dark Hours Books, Leslie brings decades of experience in social work and community activism, along with a lifelong fascination with crime fiction, true crime, forensic psychology, and the complicated forces that shape human behavior. She is especially drawn to unforgettable characters, psychological complexity, distinctive voices, and stories willing to venture into the darker corners of human nature without losing sight of the humanity found there.
Leslie brings a keen editorial eye, an instinct for what makes a story work, and a deep commitment to writers and their work. At Dark Hours Books, she is helping build a home for bold, beautifully crafted crime fiction—stories that linger long after the final page.
LeslieHardy@DarkHoursBooks.com
Joel Gibson -Promotions Specialist
Joel Gibson brings energy, creativity, and a distinctly modern approach to his role as Publicist and Promotions Specialist for Dark Hours Books. A social media specialist with a passion for technology and creative promotion, Joel is always looking for fresh ways to cut through the noise and connect great books with the readers who will love them.
With particular strengths in video and music production, digital media, and social content, Joel helps shape how Dark Hours Books and its authors show up in the world—from trailers, reels, and behind-the-scenes content to publicity campaigns, special events, launches, and unexpected promotional ideas. He understands that selling a book today is about more than advertising it; it’s about creating an experience, building a community, and giving readers something worth talking about.
Curious, inventive, and always tuned in to what’s next, Joel brings a youthful creative spark to the Dark Hours team. And when he isn’t dreaming up the next campaign, shooting video, producing music, or finding new ways to put crime fiction in front of readers, there’s a good chance he’s on a skateboard somewhere with his friends.