Introduction
Saddle up for today's "Author Spotlight" as we meet Leisa Fail, an author whose love for horses shines through every page of her heartwarming children's series, The Adventures of Stormy Normy. This isn't just fiction for Leisa; it's a passion project born from a lifelong connection to these magnificent animals and inspired by her own incredible equine companion, The Storm. Her stories beautifully capture the spirit of resilience, friendship, and learning to embrace exactly who you are.
A Lifelong Love: Leisa Fail's Journey with Horses and Writing
Leisa Fail's connection to horses began in childhood, a deep love that persisted even without the opportunity to own a horse herself. That lifelong dream took an exciting turn in 2009 with the arrival of The Storm, her first horse. Together, they embarked on incredible adventures, conquering over 3,000 kilometres in endurance rides. The bond between horse and rider was profound. When The Storm retired in 2018, Leisa found herself adrift, struggling to navigate life without her beloved companion by her side. It was out of this struggle, and a desire to honour their shared journey, that The Adventures of Stormy Normy series was born. Writing became Leisa's way to preserve their adventures and translate the lessons learned from her remarkable horse into stories that could inspire young readers.
The Adventures of Stormy Normy: Resilience, Friendship, and Finding Home
Born from Leisa Fail's love for her horse, The Storm, The Adventures of Stormy Normy series tells heartwarming tales of self-acceptance, resilience, and finding your place in the world. Beautifully brought to life by the vibrant and charming illustrations of Amy Rennie, the series follows a spirited brumby colt on his journey of discovery.
- Stormy Normy Finds His Forever Home (Book 1): The series begins with Stormy Normy facing the world alone. Readers join the young colt as he navigates the challenges of abandonment and bullying, learning valuable lessons about embracing his unique qualities. More than just a story about finding a loving home, it's an inspiring adventure about resilience, self-discovery, and the importance of being true to oneself.
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Stormy Normy and the Tom Quilty Gold Cup (Book 2): Stormy Normy's adventures continue in tropical Far North Queensland. Alongside his trusted human companion, Charlie, he takes on the ultimate challenge: competing in the Tom Quilty Gold Cup, a demanding 160km endurance ride completed in a single day. This installment celebrates the deep bonds of love and friendship, showcasing bravery and perseverance as Stormy embodies the endurance riding motto: "to complete is to win".
- Stormy Normy Goes Reining (Book 3 - Coming November 2025): Fans can look forward to the third book in the series, set to arrive in November 2025. This next adventure will see Stormy Normy exploring the exciting equestrian discipline of reining.
A Tail of Second Chances: Willow's Journey
Beyond Stormy's own adventures, Leisa Fail also offers readers a chance to connect with other beloved characters from the series.
- Willow's Journey: This heartwarming prequel short story shifts the focus to Willow, the excitable dog with a penchant for chewing shoes – a habit that led her through multiple homes before finding her place. The tale explores themes of second chances, love, and the true meaning of belonging, capturing the hearts of animal lovers. Readers can get this story by signing up for Leisa Fail's newsletter or purchasing it online on Amazon.
What Readers Are Saying
Leisa Fail's Adventures of Stormy Normy series has captured the hearts of young readers and families alike, praised for its inspiring themes and charming characters. Here's a selection of reader feedback:
- "Perfect for children aged 6 and up, this beautifully written chapter book follows the journey of a spirited brumby colt... The story is filled with adventure, resilience, and powerful life lessons. Leisa Fail has skillfully woven these themes into the narrative, making them accessible and meaningful for children." - Abhay Singh on Stormy Normy Finds His Forever Home, 5 Stars, Goodreads
- "I was captivated at the very beginning of Stormy Normy. It had all the feelings for the horse that children and adults feel and wise words from an old mare on how to get through insults and grow to accept who you are. I love horse stories this one was exceptionally wrote." - Rosetta D on Stormy Normy Finds His Forever Home, 5 Stars, Goodreads
- "This is a lovely book with charming illustrations and lessons for children as well as foals, in how to cope with jibes and turbulent emotions." - Jill Smith on Stormy Normy Finds His Forever Home, 4 Stars, Goodreads
- "A great sequel to the heartwarming opener of this series... filled with an innate sense of optimism and important life lessons for young readers. The author has once again skillfully blended adventure and excitement in the great Australian bush with positive messages... a truly uplifting yarn." - Geoff Barlow on Stormy Normy and the Tom Quilty Gold Cup, 5 Stars, Goodreads
- "This was a strong sequel... The characters were really well done and was invested in what was happening... enjoyed the illustrations. The plot worked well and left me wanting to read more. Leisa Fail has a strong writing style and am excited to read where this goes." - Kat M on Stormy Normy and the Tom Quilty Gold Cup, 5 Stars, Goodreads
- "Nice animal characters and a good plot... The author’s Australian background is evident in the writing. She intimately describes the rainforest setting... Her passion for and knowledge of horses is also quite visible... I think this is a good lesson for kids to learn: don't give up when something is difficult but give it your best shot." - Rosh on Stormy Normy and the Tom Quilty Gold Cup, 4 Stars, Goodreads
Meet Leisa Fail: Upcoming Events & Book Launch
Exciting news for Stormy Normy fans! Leisa Fail is preparing for the launch of the third book in the series, Stormy Normy Goes Reining, scheduled for release in November 2025. Readers in Queensland, Australia, will have several opportunities to meet Leisa and celebrate the new book later this year:
- Babinda Library Launch: Be among the first to welcome Book 3 on Friday, October 31st, 2025, at the Babinda Library.
- Twiga Books Launch & Reading: Join Leisa at Twiga Books in Gympie on Friday, November 7th, 2025, starting at 4pm. Hear the story behind the story, get your copy signed, and listen to Leisa read from the new book.
- Sunshine Coast Fiction Festival: Find Leisa and Stormy Normy Goes Reining at the inaugural Sunshine Coast Fiction Festival at Venue 114 in Bokarina from November 7th to 9th, 2025. She'll be among over 100 authors and bookish vendors at this exciting event.
A Call to Connection
Want to follow Stormy Normy's adventures and connect with Leisa Fail? You can find her on her website, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. She's also on Goodreads!
You can purchase her books through the Amazon affiliate links below:
Don't forget you can also sign up for Leisa's newsletter via her website to get the prequel short story, Willow's Journey as a free PDF download.
Conclusion
Leisa Fail's journey with her horse, The Storm, has blossomed into a wonderful series that shares the magic of the equine bond with young readers. The Adventures of Stormy Normy, beautifully illustrated by Amy Rennie, offers heartwarming stories filled with adventure, resilience, and valuable life lessons. Leisa's passion for horses shines through every page, making these books a perfect choice for children and horse enthusiasts alike. I highly recommend exploring Stormy Normy's world and following Leisa Fail's continuing adventures in writing.
Thanks for reading!
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