Hey, are you hungry for your next book? Rooks of the Raven is a scrumptious novel for you to taste. It leaves you wanting more. Order Six Years Black a short story as an appetizer with deliciously written prose.
Why did you choose self-publishing
I did not choose self-publishing at first. Like most aspiring author I did not know my publishing options. I sent my manuscript around to agents but to no acceptance messages.
Is Self-Publishing the best method
It depends on the author. To me it was the best method because agents do not know who I am. Its like trying to get a job for the first time. They look for experienced workers but if you don't have experience that not fair to you. So self-publishing right for me because I do everything on my own while building my author platform, my experience.
When did you first start writing
I was a sophomore in college. Early 2016. My freshmen year in college I met two friends who said they were working on a book. At that moment it hit me, like how come I cannot do the same. It wasn't till next year after being indecisive on my major and what I want to do with my life. I choose the path of a writer.
Is it scary writing
It is petrifying. I'm no Stephen King or James Patterson. Having random strangers read my book can be uplifting and frustrating. Like everything out in the world not everyone will like it. However, for me writing my first book and seeing reviews judging harshly does dampen my feelings. Its also the good reviews or bad ones that make me strive to be better for readers. I just want readers to give me time to develop as a writer.
Whats your next book
Mask of the Millions a short story
In your bio it states you plan on making your books into movies
Only time can tell. I do want to produce my own films. I have a vision and creativity that surpasses just writing a book.
Are you really from Liberia
Yes I am.
Do you really write music
I actually do. I do not have the time to learn the industry but I can write a amazing song lyrics. You will have to ask me personally to hear a line or two or follow me on twitter.
What is the most important thing about a book
Honestly, books that could put tears in my eyes. I think of it as, the readers are listening to each word you type. They resonate with your character flaws and struggles. Before I hit publish I ask beta readers how did this chapter make you feel? Whatever answer I receive I make sure I capitalize on it, tweak whatever paragraphs needed accordingly.
What kind of research do you do
My research consist of reading one book that pertains to the niche I’m writing. But mostly I watch lots of pre-civil war movies. I’m more of a visual learner so seeing on screen is my research. I believe you should tackle genre you already know.
How do you start your novels
I absolutely have to pick the title first. The title sets the whole atmosphere for my books. After I pick a title, I like to google or search on amazon to make sure nobody else has a similar title. For new authors I believe its optimal that you do not duplicate a book title. Not only do you feel this sense of originality but it helps with exposure. Think about it, if you google an already taken title its just harder to discover your works when your fighting against well seasoned author(s), Do not fight for a taken spotlight but instead make your own. Then I have to choose my main character name. I treat names and titles as if they are at the top of the pyramid. I want a name that is unique or possibly new. Your character should be treated as a God/Goddess. The right name sets everything from then on. Names can add your characters flaws, attributes, and personality. This is why I am a pantser because my characters tell me who they are as I write. Making an outline takes the flavor away. Always be surprised by your own prose. Please do not let my words discourage you, Organization is still crucial just find the right balance of the two.
Do you want each book to stand on its own, or are you trying to build a body of work with connections between each book
As of right now my books connect in a simple way. However When you read Six Years Black and Mask of the Millions they will intertwine with one another. However, I'm not sure how much they will connect.
Why are your books strong on female protagonist
It's simple, there are to many male characters. I want strong female lead to dominate the competition. If I should ever see it on the big screen I would feel accomplished.
What bothers you as an author
Please, Please don't talk about coffee. It makes my teeth grit when I hear authors write about their characters drinking coffee. Its just ancient writing.
What is your favorite quote
I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work.
-Thomas Edison
Devour the unknown to digest knowledge.
-Franklin Neal
Any advice for aspiring authors
As a wordsmith, use your pen to carve a weapon. Use it as a weapon with intoxicating prose. Etch new life. Your words, your message should captivate, it allures. People will attack with negative comments, you have to get back up, keep writing. This is your story, your dream. My advice is, attack the genre you excel in. The ones you find yourself saying I could have done better or I’ve seen and read better books. Do not get discouraged always continue writing. For me, I like to talk about my books to close friends or family, it always gets me excited and inspire to continue writing. They sometimes ask questions about the book and that usually helps and gives great new perspective. Always persevere.
I did not choose self-publishing at first. Like most aspiring author I did not know my publishing options. I sent my manuscript around to agents but to no acceptance messages.
Is Self-Publishing the best method
It depends on the author. To me it was the best method because agents do not know who I am. Its like trying to get a job for the first time. They look for experienced workers but if you don't have experience that not fair to you. So self-publishing right for me because I do everything on my own while building my author platform, my experience.
When did you first start writing
I was a sophomore in college. Early 2016. My freshmen year in college I met two friends who said they were working on a book. At that moment it hit me, like how come I cannot do the same. It wasn't till next year after being indecisive on my major and what I want to do with my life. I choose the path of a writer.
Is it scary writing
It is petrifying. I'm no Stephen King or James Patterson. Having random strangers read my book can be uplifting and frustrating. Like everything out in the world not everyone will like it. However, for me writing my first book and seeing reviews judging harshly does dampen my feelings. Its also the good reviews or bad ones that make me strive to be better for readers. I just want readers to give me time to develop as a writer.
Whats your next book
Mask of the Millions a short story
In your bio it states you plan on making your books into movies
Only time can tell. I do want to produce my own films. I have a vision and creativity that surpasses just writing a book.
Are you really from Liberia
Yes I am.
Do you really write music
I actually do. I do not have the time to learn the industry but I can write a amazing song lyrics. You will have to ask me personally to hear a line or two or follow me on twitter.
What is the most important thing about a book
Honestly, books that could put tears in my eyes. I think of it as, the readers are listening to each word you type. They resonate with your character flaws and struggles. Before I hit publish I ask beta readers how did this chapter make you feel? Whatever answer I receive I make sure I capitalize on it, tweak whatever paragraphs needed accordingly.
What kind of research do you do
My research consist of reading one book that pertains to the niche I’m writing. But mostly I watch lots of pre-civil war movies. I’m more of a visual learner so seeing on screen is my research. I believe you should tackle genre you already know.
How do you start your novels
I absolutely have to pick the title first. The title sets the whole atmosphere for my books. After I pick a title, I like to google or search on amazon to make sure nobody else has a similar title. For new authors I believe its optimal that you do not duplicate a book title. Not only do you feel this sense of originality but it helps with exposure. Think about it, if you google an already taken title its just harder to discover your works when your fighting against well seasoned author(s), Do not fight for a taken spotlight but instead make your own. Then I have to choose my main character name. I treat names and titles as if they are at the top of the pyramid. I want a name that is unique or possibly new. Your character should be treated as a God/Goddess. The right name sets everything from then on. Names can add your characters flaws, attributes, and personality. This is why I am a pantser because my characters tell me who they are as I write. Making an outline takes the flavor away. Always be surprised by your own prose. Please do not let my words discourage you, Organization is still crucial just find the right balance of the two.
Do you want each book to stand on its own, or are you trying to build a body of work with connections between each book
As of right now my books connect in a simple way. However When you read Six Years Black and Mask of the Millions they will intertwine with one another. However, I'm not sure how much they will connect.
Why are your books strong on female protagonist
It's simple, there are to many male characters. I want strong female lead to dominate the competition. If I should ever see it on the big screen I would feel accomplished.
What bothers you as an author
Please, Please don't talk about coffee. It makes my teeth grit when I hear authors write about their characters drinking coffee. Its just ancient writing.
What is your favorite quote
I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work.
-Thomas Edison
Devour the unknown to digest knowledge.
-Franklin Neal
Any advice for aspiring authors
As a wordsmith, use your pen to carve a weapon. Use it as a weapon with intoxicating prose. Etch new life. Your words, your message should captivate, it allures. People will attack with negative comments, you have to get back up, keep writing. This is your story, your dream. My advice is, attack the genre you excel in. The ones you find yourself saying I could have done better or I’ve seen and read better books. Do not get discouraged always continue writing. For me, I like to talk about my books to close friends or family, it always gets me excited and inspire to continue writing. They sometimes ask questions about the book and that usually helps and gives great new perspective. Always persevere.