Exit 2020

 Today is the LAST day of 2020.  This has been a somewhat horrendous year to live through.  The country was struck with a deadly pandemic that has taken about 340,000 lives....no thanks to the incompetence of the political leadership of the country.  Celebrities and citizens alike have lost their lives, and ordinary citizens have lost their livelihoods, and even their homes/place of residence.  Others have lost their business(es), as well.  Not to mention, the rash of racial shootings by the police across the country, and many of the street protests, as well as the riots/rebellions that followed them.  Bigotry had shown its ugly face within the presidency, the general populous, and many of the political leaders too afraid to stand up to the (so-called) leader of the country.

Yeah....a lot of people are glad to see this year come to an end.  Who can blame them?

I lost my own job in this mess, even though I did get to release TWO books this year, to celebrate my Ten Year anniversary as a published author.  My lack of sales left A LOT  to be desired, but that's pretty usual for me, since most people would rather press a 'like' button, than to actually buy/download my books.  But, I digress...

Farewell to 2020.  It was a tumultuous year for one and all. If you made it through it, let's hear it for those of us who survived.  Let us continue persevering, and trying to maintain our sanity, and move forward.  Do what you can, and need to do, to deal with the trauma of this year.  Hopefully, 2021 will be full of better days.

Oh yeah...Happy Kwanzaa!!  Habari gani...?  Kuumba!!!

Keep the fist raised.

#AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind

End-of-Year Roundup

As I've stated before, we've reached the month of December.  We've finally reached the last month of what could be considered a really treacherous year.  The country was severely impacted by the coronavirus, having shut down for most of the year.  Due to the utter incompetence of the presidential administration, many lives were lost, as well as people becoming sick, and becoming jobless.  Many people lost their jobs due to the countrywide shutdown, and the sheer audacity of the political leadership offering pittances that they called 'assistance' to the populous.  Not to mention, the continued racial oppression of our people by the police, and so-called political leaders offering wordplay for assurance, trying to shield their complicity in such matters.  

But...I digress....

I released two novels this year to celebrate my TENTH YEAR as a published author.  My sales were lackluster, to say the least.  Part of it could be blamed on the pandemic, but people also had the option to download copies pf my books, new AND old, and still didn't support the releases.  I wasn't able to go out, and promote my released works in person, due to the rise of the pandemic, and the restrictions that followed.  At the same time, people have never really been all that supportive of my writing career.  None of my books have ever flown off the shelves, nor have my royalties ever been high off of online sales.  Even my in-person sales have been hit-or-miss, depending on the event that I vended at; whether it was a book signing event that I organized on my own, or a book fair/festival that I chose to vend at.

I am still preparing myself to repatriate to the African continent, hopefully by the end of next year.  I've downloaded some PDF files to teach myself to speak Swahili, as well as continuing to do my (mostly online) research on the countries of Uganda, Tanzania, and Gambia.  Every day, i grow more and more weary of living here, and dealing with people and their bullshit, and frustrating ignorance.  I'm done fighting; if the rest of you want to remain mental slaves, go the fuck ahead.  I choose to be free.  I'm hoping to do some outreach to let people on the continent know about my literary works, and hopefully be supportive of them.

Episodes of "The Rough Draft" are continuing to be produced.  I just uploaded our THIRTIETH episode to YouTube.  Not a bad amount of episodes to have, for having only produced the show for little over a year; a year and four months, to be exact.  This latest episode will be the final one for the year.  I'm planning on shooting more episodes in the new year, and posting them.  Feedback has been minimal, as usual.  Oh well...

 

Considering shutting down the Universal Africana Literary Arts Movement.  It's becoming a burden to me, as much as I like helping people, and passing on information.  I'm not receiving any type of assistance, or real support.  I've been doing this shit for twelve years, with little to no help at all.  With the impact of the pandemic, I really have to prioritize what's important to my own personal literary career.  I'll make a decision by next February...

 

That's about it for now.  Hopefully, I'll be able to hit you guys up again before the year is fully out.  Please stay safe & healthy.  Please, also help to download and purchase my books.  Help to spread the word!!!

 

Keep the fist raised.

 

#AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind     

December Is Finally Here!!! :-O

 We have reached the month of DECEMBER!!!  The years is almost over, and it is hard to gauge if that's a good thing, or not.  a lot has happened over the last 11 months, and it's quite hard to digest it all.  As of this posting, 275,000 people have died from the COVID-19 coronavirus in the United States.  a new president has been elected, and millions of people are out of work.

There is ONE MORE MONTH to go before the release of "Knuckle Up" (Kindle Direct Publishing, 2021).  Lock in the date of January 22, 2021 for the novel's release!  It's posted as a Facebook Event, as well as being sent out to the people on my Author Mailing List.  Mark your calendars!!  :-)

The #HolidayEconomicSupportInitiative is still going.  We are now heading into the Winter Solstice, Christmas, and Kwanzaa.  PLEASE help to support independent Black-owned businesses, Black/Latino entrepreneurs, and Black/Brown indie artists!!!  Use the hashtag to promote a business, entrepreneur, or artists that you know!!!

I usually go into a 'cleanse' at the start of the Winter Solstice, lasting until the New Year.  I generally shave my face and head, going into the new year with new energy.  With the shaving, I shed the old, negative energies of the past year, and go into the new year with 'cleansed', untainted energy.  I will be bald, and fresh faced in 2021.  :-)

Still considering my repatriation plans.  I FINALLY got back into contact with my little lady-friend.  Hopefully, I can convince her to move with me.  I'm now targeting the end of 2021 to repatriate.  She's also go some issues to straighten out, and if I am able to convince her to come, we need o tackle those first, before we finally leave.  Keeping my fingers crossed.

 

That's all for right now.  Hope that you are all staying safe.  If you guys don't hear from me, please enjoy the holidays, and looking forward to you supporting my latest literary release.

 

Keep the fist raised.

 

#AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!! Holiday Economic Support Initiative/HESI

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!  For those of you that celebrate Thanksgiving, I hope that you had a great holiday, and were able to enjoy your families and loved ones in this crazy time of the COVID-19 pandemic.  Hope that you were able to enjoy a hearty meal with family, and have ease of mind, at least for one day during this trying year...

 

As Thanksgiving comes to a close, I would like to encourage everyone to participate in the Holiday Economic support Initiative/HESI.  I came up with this initiative back in 2016, as a way to help combat against the racial violence that was affecting and inflicting our communities by the powers that be through gentrification, and through physical violence through murders committed by the police, and vigilantes.  It is a financial call to arms to financially support our businesses, our entrepreneurs, and our creative artists (visual, musical, literary, etc.).  The initiative generally lasts from Thanksgiving/Black Friday through to New Years Day.

 

PLEASE help to participate in this initiative by supporting our indie artists, black-owned businesses, and our entrepreneurs.  If WE don't support our own people in these business and artistic endeavors, who will?  We are not taken seriously in this society, as is evidently proven just about every day, and was visible to all for the last four years, and MANY many more years, before then.  To support and participate in this movement, please use the hashtags #HolidayEconomicSupportInitiative, or #HESI for any business, entrepreneur, or indie artist that you support.  Include their Facebook page, Twitter or InstaGram handle, or a picture of their business, or product with the hashtag.  We need to help and promote our businesses and entrepreneurs in order for them to be able to survive, and remain solvent.  I also speak a bit about the initiative in my latest video of "The Rough Draft" posted to YouTube; Episode 27 to be exact.

 

Please participate, support, and help to spread the word!

 

Keep the fist raised.

 

#AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind

 

    

***NEW*** 2021 Book Release!!! :-D

 MARK....YOUR....CALENDARS!!!!

 

 

I've finalized my plans for my NEXT BOOK RELEASE!!!  I will be publishing my novel "Knuckle Up" (Kindle Direct Publishing, 2021) next year in 2021.  The date for the book release will be January 22, 2021!!!  This will be my THIRTEENTH book, and EIGHTH novel!!!  Yaaaay!!!

 

 

Set in 2005, the novel follows the boxing career of Mandinga "The Manhandler" Mason, a fighter from the streets of Red Hook, Brooklyn.  As she transitions from the amateur ranks into the pros, you see the trials and tribulations that she goes through in her career.  Will she be able to go on to have a successful fight career, or will she allow her inner demons to derail her boxing career?  What secrets is her new trainer, Yusef Johns, hiding?  What derailed his boxing career, to lead him into training?

January 22, 2021!!!  Mark your calendars!!!  There is already a Facebook Event posted online!!!

Keep the fist raised!!!

#AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind
 

November News....

 We have entered into the month of November.  The numbers of deaths from the coronavirus has reached 230,000+ people.  Also, the presidential election has just passed, as as of this post, they are still counting the votes.  The last time I checked, the Democratic candidate, former V.P. Joe Biden was ahead in the electoral college vote 263 to 214 against (so-called) President Donald Trump.  My nephew Enrique's birthday is this coming Monday, November 9th, and my childhood best friend from junior high school Alexander also has his birthday this weekend; Sunday November 8th, to be exact.

Yep...we're living in interesting times.  At least the year is almost over.  2020 has been a whopper of a year.  A lot of death, and a lot of other losses.

My web series "The Rough Draft" is going well.  I just posted Episode 26 on YouTube.  Wish that I could get a few more views and a lot more feedback for my online work.  Comments help, people!!!  A few purchases wouldn't hurt, either.  The books are available in both paperback AND eBook formats, so you have NO excuse for not supporting the writing career.  You'd think that, after doing this shit consistently for TEN years, people would actually start to take me seriously, by now....

Speaking of books...NEW PUBLISHING RELEASE!!!  :-D

I finished writing "Knuckle Up" (Kindle Direct Publishing, 2021).  The cover art is finished, the backcover synopsis is done, and the project is ready for publication.  I've finally chosen a release date for the book.  Be on the lookout for the book to drop on January 22, 2021!!!

That's all for now.  Looking forward to keeping you guys in the loop.  Catch you in the next post!

Keep the fist raised.

#AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind

Birthday Stylee

So, my birthday was last week.  It was on the 8th, to be exact.  I am now officially 46 years old.  Didn't really do much for my birthday, considering how COVID-19 has shut down most businesses.  I didn't really want to go to any of the open restaurants, and I'm still a little leery about going into enclosed spaces.  It wasn't a total loss; I actually had some friends surprise me last weekend, and get me a cake, and some chips.  An elder sister and I had birthdays last week, so as to celebrate both of our birthdays, they equally got us the cake and chips.  I was really humbled by that, and truly appreciated my friends for it.  I don't really have too many people out here in Delaware that I associate with, so this act of kindness really meant a lot to me.  

So, Latino Heritage Month has officially ended, as of yesterday.  The month is celebrated from September 15th-October 15th, so yesterday was the 'official' last day for it.  I've been running a series to celebrate the month on YouTube, through my web series "The Rough Draft".  I called it my #CelebratingLatinoHeritageMonth series, and just posted the final video for it, today.  The series is 6 episodes long, and features my Latino lead characters in my novels, and my Latino-themed books.  I hope that you guys will check out the videos, and hopefully be inspired to buy the books.  ALWAYS remember to celebrate your heritage, and celebrate your culture.  Viva mi gente Latino!!!  Soy negro, y orgullo!!!

 

I'm still working on my repatriation plans.  As I've stated before, my top choices are to repatriate to either Gambia in the west of Africa, or to Tanzania in the east.  Just trying to get the passport taken care of, as well as figure out what I need to transport over there.  I've been following some Youtubers who have repatriated to the continent, and hope to connect with them, before my move next year.  My secondary choices are Senegal in the west, and Uganda in the east.  I'm still open to other countries, I just wanna gtfo of the US.  I've had enough.  I 'm also trying to figure what type of business that I'd like to open over there.  I'm still considering the bookstore & cafe idea, but I'm also considering a gym/fitness center, as well.  Other than building my writing career on the continent, I'd like to have something to pass on to my future children...when I finally find a wife to have children with. 

My next book is DONE!!!  I will be releasing a new novel in 2021.  Knuckle Up is another conversion project of mine, and I'm really looking forward to releasing it.  I have an idea for a release date, and I'll be letting you guys know when within the next month.  Stay tuned!!!

That is all for now.  I'll be contacting you guys, soon enough with the release date details.

Keep the fist raised.

#AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind

The OCTOBER Edition-Latino Heritage Month

 We have now entered into the month of October.  October is the SECOND half of Latino Heritage Month.  It is also the start of the fall season;  of course, the Autumnal Equinox was in September, buuut you get my drift.  October also happens to be my birthday month...the 8th, to be exact.  I'll be turning 46 years old.  Yay, me.

 

I'm continuing with my celebration for Latino Heritage Month.  I've been doing my series on "The Rough Draft" on YouTube to celebrate it; my #CelebratingLatinoHeritageMonth video series, profiling my Latino lead characters, and Latino-themed books.  Been doing what I can to promote the videos, but you know how that goes...

 

Speaking of "The Rough Draft"...we're now in out twenties!!!  I've just posted Episode 21, today!!  I've been producing and posting the videos on YouTube at a good clip.  I've gotten at least 2 new subscriptions, so far.  My views are still nonexistent, but that's par for the course whenever it comes to anything that I do.  Niggas don't support me for shit.  I can't even remember the last time I sold a book online.  But, I digress...

 

Don't really have any plans to celebrate my upcoming birthday (Oct 8th).  It seems the old I get, the less that I want to be bothered.  I dunno...maybe is I had a girlfriend or wife, it might matter a little more; hell maybe even kids.  Every year, my birthday just gets hollower, and hollower.  :-(

 

Still working on the next book release for next year.  The cover is now DONE!!!  I've gotten my decision down to two different covers.  I just need to come up with a publishing date, and a back cover synopsis.  Yay!!!  Look out for the publication of Knuckle Up (2021)!!!

 

Still working on my plans to repatriate to Africa.  Either Gambia, Tanzania, or Uganda.  I actually do have a comrade that now lives in Ghana; that's an option, as well.  I met him while living in Richmond, VA.  Most of the people that I was associated with back then have moved on to better things, since then.  It almost feels like a lifetime ago.  At the same time, this year makes it ten years since I first moved to Baltimore, MD.  Maybe my ass just needs to learn to stay in one place, lol, lol, lol.  ;-)    

Well, that's all for now.  I'll hit you guys up, and keep you updated on my future plans, and episodes.

Keep the fist raised.

#AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind

Latino Heritage Month 2020

 We have now officially entered into Latino Heritage Month.  The celebration of culture lasts from September 15th to October 15th, as this timeline represents the various days of independence declared by countries throughout Latin America (Central & South).  This year will be different, though; because of the COVID-19 coronavirus, many outdoor festivals celebrating Latino heritage and pride have been cancelled, or have been made virtual, this year.  Other than a few programs aired on television via streaming services, or through PBS outlets, Latino Heritage Month has been a quiet affair this year, so far.

 

As always, you know that I must include my own participation in the festivities.  You know that I have to represent for my fellow Afro Latino people.  We are currently (ALWAYS, actually) and continuously underrepresented, or outright misrepresented.  My fellow activists are also doing there part, always helping to spread info about us, and represent our interests.  We are here...we exist.  As I always say...keep the fist raised.

I will be doing my part as well.  I will be doing a special #CelebratingLatinoHeritageMonth edition of "The Rough Draft".  I will be profiling all of my book titles with Latino themes, and Latino/Afro Latino lead characters.  If you are subscribed to my channel on YouTube, the videos will be posted there, starting from Episode 18.  You will be able to enjoy my in-depth profiles of my literary works, the lead characters, and the concepts behind them.

 

As we enter into the last quarter of the remaining year, I will continue to focus of my future plans.  My next book to be published, Knuckle Up (2020), is in it's final stages.  The cover art has been created, and I just have to pick a date to choose when I want to publish that project.  I'm really looking forward to releasing this particular project, as it is another conversion project. I'll let you know when I finally decide on the release date, and will post it here on my blog, and also create a Facebook Event for it.  Stay tuned for that...

ALSO...I'm furthering my plans to relocate the continent by next year; to either Gambia, or Tanzania.  I'm probably going to target the summer of 2021.  Once I get my passport straight, and do all of the other necessary processes I need to do to relocate there, I'm leaving this shithole. No more worrying about getting shot down in the streets for nothing...no more dealing with racism & prejudice in the workplace, or everyday society...no more fighting for people who don't want to be fought for, and just want acquiesce to the power structure of whiteness & white supremacy.  Fuck it....I'm DONE!!!

 

Catch ya next time!!!

Viva mi gente Latino!  Viva mi gente Afro Latino!  Feliz el mes de la herencia de Los Latinos!

Keep the fist raised.

 

#AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind

Falling Into September....

 We are now in the first week of September.  Summer has unofficially come to an end, and we are now in the last quarter of the year.  Only FOUR MORE MONTHS remain for the rest of the year.  :-O!!!  At last count, deaths from the coronavirus was at around 187,000, and still climbing.  At the beginning of this whole pandemic, the experts were saying that we would suffer anywhere between 100,000-200,000 death from the virus.  Looks like they're n track to be right....   :'-(

My heart goes out to the family of John Thompson, the legendary coach from Georgetown University.  I remember when he was still coaching, and how I used to love to watch his teams take the court, as they were beasts in the Big East Conference.  He wasn't just a great coach, he also stood up for our people, and was unapologetic about it.  He will be sorely missed.  :'-(

 

As far as my work(s)-in-progress are concerned, Knuckle Up  (2021) is going very well.  The cover art is done to my liking, and I'm pretty satisfied with the manuscript.  Looks like it's ready to be published, to me.  I'm still deciding on when I'm going to release it next year.  Hopefully, I'll be able to do some in-person appearances to promote it.  Of course, I'm also planning on repatriating to the continent by next year.  Maybe I'll release it, while I'm living in Africa...?  I sure as hell don't receive much support here in the Sates, that's for fucking sure!  But, I digress....

 

I'm also working on another book project.  I've decided to write a sequel to "Seductra: Web of Desire" (CreateSpace, 2017).  This time around, I'm featuring the character of Kenya Slade.  I'm kind of taking the story full circle, as KENYA was originally supposed to be the main character of the story, not Dasha.  Kenya is a little bit older, and more mature this time around.  The story is kinda interesting and different this time around, as I'm adding some other brand new characters to the story.  The working title is "Seductra: Back 2 Da Stage" (???2022???).  I already have a concept for the cover design.  I'll try to keep you guys in the loop...

 

I'm considering creating an account on Patreon.  I need to find some way to get compensated for my work.  I'm sick of these nonexistent book sales.  I need to find a way to make a living off of my writing career somehow.  Perhaps having patrons investing in my work is a great way to go...?  I don't know too many authors/writers that use the Patreon platform, but I'm interested in using it.  What have I got to lose...?  Anything is better than always seeing a big, fat zero whenever I check my sales...

 

Latino Heritage Month starts in another week, or two (September 15th-Otocber 15th).  I'm considering doing a special about it on "The Rough Draft", and posting them to YouTube.  I'm going to be featuring my novels that star my Afro Latino characters.  Hopefully, the weather will agree with me, and I'll be able to shoot the episodes simultaneously.  I have enough novels that will be able to stretch the entire month long celebration.  I'll probably post the first video by next week...

 

That's all for now.  Trying to start the fall season off strong.  Haven't really been able to do much with the Universal Africana Literary Arts Movement.  With the pandemic cancelling out most of the festivals, and other literary events, there's not much information for me to pass on to the other members :-(.  I guess that's just a greater hint that I need to be focusing more on my own literary career, than other people's careers.  Hopefully, things will pick up sooner, than later...

 

I'm out, peoples.  Hope that you enjoyed this post.  Let me know what you think.

 

Keep the fist raised.

 

#AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind

 

 

      

End of Summer Daze......

 It is going on the final weekend of August.  The summer season is coming to an end.  Starting next Tuesday, we'll have FOUR months left in the year.  I guess for some people, this year can't end fast enough.  There has been a lot of tragedy happening.  Last time that I check, I believe that the numbers for deaths from COVID-19 is about 178,000.  My personal opinion...?  A number of those deaths could have been unnecessarily avoided.  We've also lost a number of cultural icons to natural causes, or other diseases.  It's been a year of loss, and heavy emotional turmoil.

 

As August comes to a close, my sales have continued to be stagnant.  I didn't record any new sales for the month.  My sales have basically remained flat for the past THREE months.  Not for lack of trying.  I send out my email e-blasts, I continue to release the videos of "The Rough Draft" with the info to purchase my books, and continue to post about them on my social media.  I'm doing MY part in this....

 

Speaking of "The Rough Draft"...I posted Episode 17 on YouTube.  It celebrates the ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY of me doing the web series.  I've gotten a few positive responses for it on some of my other social media account, but none on YouTube, as of yet.  No...I will not be posting the link for it here.  It doesn't help me any, even when I do post the link in my blog.  Take yo ass onto YouTube, lol, lol, lol, lol!

Still working on my latest literary project.  "Knuckle Up" seems to be ready to be published.  I'm satisfied with the story, and don't see any additional editing that needs to be done.  I'm working on the cover art, now.  I produced FOUR different versions of the cover; I'm just trying to decide which one to use.  Maybe I should turn it, into some sort of contest...?

 

Still considering my move to the continent.  Still trying to decide between Tanzania, and Gambia.  I'm leaning a little more towards Gambia.  Hopefully, I can make that transition sometime next year.  I still need to get my passport done.  I don't care WHO wins that damn election....it's time for me to GO!!!

 

Working on a new Author Logo.  I might start using it.  I need to update all of my stuff, anyway.  Of course, I finally learned how to make graphic images while using my freeware programs on Windows 10.  Felt kinda dumb when I finally figure that out, lol, lol.

 

That's about it for now.  Hope to hit ya up in September.  I'm planning on doing something special on "The Rough Draft" to celebrate Latino Heritage Month.  I'm going to feature my Latino-themed books for both September & October.  Let me know what you guys think!!!

 

Keep the fist raised!!!

 

#AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind

 

 

Black August Rising.....

 SOOOOOOOOOO.......

 

We have just about completed the first week of August.  The year is now about 2/3 over with.  Time really is starting to fly by.  We are in some trying times, right now.  At last count, about 160,000 people have already died from the coronavirus in the United States.  A number of states are shutting back down, again, and job losses are at an extremely high level.  The politicians are fighting among themselves, claiming to be negotiating for a relief package for the citizens, but we all know that to be kinda bullshit.  Considering that the election is in another three months, you would think that they would do something significant, if they really want to maintain their office, huh?  But...wtf do I know, anyway...? 

My sales are still flat, overall.  Nothing for the two latest releases, or for any of my other previously published projects  (HAH....try saying that five time fast  :-) !!!!).  It gets a little infuriating, this lack of support.  But yet...niggas will name drop Ibram Kendi, or Ta-Nehisi Coates, and post all over social media how they've bought their books, posting pictures and shit.  But, then again....I'm just a hater.  ***EXTREME sarcasm dripping***

Aaaaaaaaaaanyway.....

"The Rough Draft" turns one years old this month!!!  August 23rd actually makes it one year since I've started the vlog on YouTube.  I'm planning on doing a special episode for it; I've contacted people on my email Mailing List to submit questions to ask me about my career, writing process, character, etc.; basically, it'll be an 'Ask-the-Author' segment.  Surprisingly, I actually got some feedback from people on the questions to ask.  I'll be reading all of the respondents questions in the video, and answering them.  I'm considering posting the link here, after the episode is shot & edited....

 

Speaking of "The Rough Draft", Episode #16 has been shot and posted on YouTube.  No...I won't be posting the link here.  You can go to YouTube, and look for it.

 

My latest literary project "Knuckle Up" is progressing really well.  I juuuust might publish it in 2021.  I'm continuing to edit the manuscript, and I've already designed 2 versions of the book cover.  I'm pretty happy with the progress of this project, and I kinda can't wait to drop it.  I'll let you guys know when I plan on releasing that project next year.

 

August is the month of revolution.  It is the birth month of the Rt. Hon. Marcus Mosiah Garvey, founder of the Universal Negro Improvement Association & African Communities League  (UNIA & ACL).  I believe that it is also the month when George Jackson died in San Quentin federal prison, and his brother Jonathan Jackson died trying to break him out of prison.  Learn about your past revolutionaries, and use that information to help improve our communities, and help to make them better.  Shout out to Black Lives Matter!!!  Keep up the struggle!!!

 

Well, that'll be all for now.  Catch ya on the flip side!!!

 

Keep the fist raised.

 

#AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind   

The Month of July So Far.....

As we approach a little beyond the midway point of the month, things are looking VERY unsettled.  Coronavirus numbers are starting to climb back up, and states are starting to re-institute restrictions to protect the populace...or, at least to cover their collective asses, for their potential reelection bids.

Oh, yeah...and my book sales ain't been shit.  Yeah...I had to throw that in there, somewhere.

If you're on YouTube, and have an account with them, I've just uploaded the latest episode of "The Rough Draft"; Episode #15.  I won't be posting the link here, as I don't think that it ever helps, or matters.  Subscribe to my channel if you can, and LEAVE A COMMENT!!!  It would be nice to actually get some feedback from people who 'claim' to be my supporters.  I feel like a little kid who gets brushed off, just because he's a little kid, or being annoying.  Just give me SOME sort of feedback!!

Working on my latest manuscript.  Decided to convert my screenplay "Knuckle Up" into my next book.  I'm going through round THREE of editing, so far.  If things keep going at this rate, I'm hoping to have completed editing by the end of the year, and have the book ready for publication in 2021.  I've got few ideas about how I want the cover to look.  I'm excited about this project, as it is one of my favorite scripts.  I'll keep you guys updated on my progress with that project....

The day job front is stagnant.  My state is stuck in 'Phase 2' for the time being, until our COVID-19 numbers go down in the state.  I haven't heard from my boss on when we're supposed to go back to work.  I kinda don't mind, but I just really hate staying at home.  I just can't believe that some people actually live like this, for most of their lives; just staying at home, waiting for a check.  Couldn't be me.  Good thing that I've got my writing career to work on.  At least it gives me something to do, and gives me purpose.

Kinda looking forward to next month.  It's "Black August", for those of us revolutionaries out there.  Personally for me, it marks 1 whole year since I started producing "The Rough Draft".  I might decide to have an episode doing a recap of what I've posted within that year.  Actually...I'd rather do an 'Ask-The-Author' segment, where my fans get to ask me questions, and I get to answer their questions in the video.  I'll let you know what I'm planning...

That's about all for now.  I'll keep you guys updated on my progress.  Hopefully, things will improve, and will get somewhat back to normal.  Stay safe, peoples!!!

Keep the fist raised.

#AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind

July Beginnings....

It is now JULY!!!!  The day before so-called "Independence Day" for the country.  The SEVENTH month in the year.  The year is now officially little over half over.  Time truly is flying...

It's been FOUR months since the Dual Release of "Time Will Reveal", and "Suicide Amy" (Kindle Direct Publishing, 2020).  Sales haven't been what I wanted them to be, DESPITE all of the promotion (pre- AND post release) that I've done for the novels. I think May has been my best sales month so far, which isn't really saying much.  June was a big fat ZERO, which is actually typical for me.  So much for my so-called 'fan base'....

It's also been four month since the lockdown because of the COVID-19 coronavirus.  as it is....a few states have had to halt their reopening because of a surge of cases hitting certain states.  They're actually going back to lockdown mode, and shutting down their reopening.  Other states or just moving A LOT slower than before, holding off on easing some of the restrictions that they were planning on lifting.  I'm actually growing more concerned, now.  I don't want to say that I took this lightly, when this all first started going down, but...The people in charge OBVIOUSLY don't know what the fuck they're doing, and I'm not willing to risk my life cause these idiots wanna play politics, and appease stupid ass white people who think they they're invincible, or that their lives CANNOT be inconvenienced under any circumstances...

On the literary front....I have no anniversaries for this month.  I haven't published any books during the month of July.  Oh well.....

Haven't posted a new episode of "The Rough Draft" yet, either.  Trying to figure out the topic for my next episode.  If any of you out there has any ideas, or wants to participate in an 'Ask-The-Author' segment....let a brotha know.  I'm tired of not getting any feedback.  Let a brotha know what's on your mind, for once....

Still considering the repatriation to the continent of Africa.  Still continuing to do the research.  I follow a number or repats on YouTube, and am trying to follow some of their advice.  Especially once the travel restrictions from the pandemic are lifted, I really, really REALLY need to gtfo this country.  I'm disgusted by a lot of what I see.  FUCK marching in the streets, protesting!  Bust somebody's head open!  Bomb a few police stations!  Go into some white neighborhoods, and beat the shit outta some of them!  Fuck shooting a gd video of some white person acting a fool, and acting overly privileged!  Grow a fuck pair, already!!!!

Anyway.....

Finally decided to convert one of my screenplay projects.  Since I haven't written anything since the Dual Release, and the start of this pandemic....this is actually very good news!  I was feeling quite blocked up, in a literary sense.  This pandemic had me worried.  I'm starting to feel a little bit more like myself, in recent days.  It's probably the frustration that I've been feeling with what's being going on politically...not just with the killing of #GeoregeFloyd, and the resurgence of the Black Lives Matter movement....but also with some of the utter bullshit that I've been seeing online with the so-called Afro Latino Movement.  No wonder I left that bullshit behind six years ago, smgdmfh....

Anyhooo....

The project is called "Knuckle Up", telling about the trials and tribulations of a female fighter named Mandinga "The Manhandler" Mason in her fight career.  I'll let you all know how it goes.  Hope to publish the book sometime next year, or in 2022!!!  :-)

Later peoples.  Talk to you next time.  I'll keep you updated, when I can.  Catch ya on the flip side.

Keep the fist raised!!!!

#AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind

End of June Reports....

It's the final weekend of June, going into the final days of the month.  Sales have been nonexistent for this month.  So much for my burgeoning support....  [EXTREME sarcasm dripping]

Shout out to the Black bookstores that are keeping up the struggle.  Let us hope that this new founded support continues, and is not another sad attempt of people trying to feign wokeness.  Where were y'all so-called 'woke' cats when these businesses were struggling, prior to the pandemic?  The WHITE people supporting these businesses, I can get; they are trying to assuage their 'white guilt' and privilege to abuse the notion of their own ingrained racism.  You fake ass Black folks, on the other hand...?  Y'all ain't 'woke'. C'mon son.....fuck the bullshit.

Anyway....

Posted the most recent episodes of "The Rough Draft".  I shot episodes 13 & 14, and they are now uploaded onto YouTube.  I'm making it happen, peoples!!!  You can check out their links here:

Episode #13:
  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PTEdbMCFb7s

Episode #14:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PTEdbMCFb7s&t=10s

Please feel free to 'like' the videos...COMMENT on them, and subscribe to my channel.  I'm trying to be consistent with the content, so you guys can at least make the effort to comment on my videos, and 'like' them as well.  You have idiots on there who talk about absolutely nothing, yet they get a ridiculous amount of followers, and ongoing commentary.

Whatever, man......

The states are continuing to open up, as well as coronavirus cases are now starting to explode in the south, and Midwest.  The death toll in the U.S. is at about 120,000, and continuing to rise.  I'm certainly lucky that death from the virus hasn't touched me personally, but still...these are the most trying of times.

Haven't been feeling as motivated to write, as of late.  Aside from the consistent promotion that I do for my most current releases, I haven't even bothered to work on any of my other works-in-progress.  The inspiration just isn't there for me.  It probably has to do with the current pandemic; it feels like there is just more important shit to worry about.  Been busy trying to hawk all of my publications during this outbreak, but so far, it's been all for naught.  Fuck it...nuccas be on some trend hopping bullshit.  Now that the states are opening back up, and people have other distractions to hold their attention, they don't have time to fuck with any of my literary works.

Oh, well....

That's all for now.  Try to hit you guys up next month.

Keep the fist raised.

#AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind 

June News/My Revolutionary Rant....

So, it is now the month of JUNE!!!  The year is now half over!  :-O

First off...I have to acknowledge the 5-year-publishing anniversary of my novel "Demure Nights" (CreateSpace, 2015). 

Dropped this project FIVE years ago.  My...how time flies :-O.  This novel was actually an experiment; I wanted to see if I could write something other than something that was politically tinged.  Wanted to see if I had the skills to write something that would've been deemed out of character for me.  Of course, people seem to not know that I have a dirty mind, lol, lol, lol....

Secondly.....I dropped episode TWELVE of "The Rough Draft"!  We're hitting the double digits, y'all!!  If you're on YouTube, PLEASE check out the videos, and drop a comment!  A writer/creator loves nothing more than to hear feedback on their work.  You can check out the link for it here:

Episode 12:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CfsX1uWWFfY&t=37s

In Episode 12, I profile my THIRD book "In My Lifetime: Funny Stories of Life Experiences" (Outskirts Press, 2014), and what lead me to write it.....

Okay...now that that shit is out of the way...

I'm about to get political on your asses.  Haven't really done that here for a LOOOONG while, but because of recent events, I felt the need to get back to my political speak....

The weekend of May 30th & 31st was hectic.  After the killing of a brother in Minnesota named #GeorgeFloyd, the streets erupted in protest and anger; deservedly so.  The killing of yet ANOTHER Black body by the police/powers-that-be, caught on camera (again) at that.  Since I live in Delaware, I saw the affects of that in nearby Philadelphia.  We had protests here in Delaware, as well, but let me get to my point.  People came out and protested and were rightfully MAD.  As the day wore on, it went from protest, to rebellion.

I agree with rebellion.  Fuck all this peaceful shit.  We've been doing peaceful shit for SIXTY years, now.  We gain some concessions, and then they take them back through laws and other political trickery.

What I DON'T agree with....is the aftermath.  You originally rebelled in THEIR financial districts.  Good...that was smart of you; disrupt their capacity to financially gain from your oppression, or fund their oppression of you..  Then...you took that shit back to YOUR OWN NEIGHBORHOODS, and looted.

NOT smart!!!!  :-(

I was glad to see what was done in Center City; fuck 'em all.  Then...y'all did some nigga ass shit, and went back to West and North Philly, and ransacked your own 'hoods.

WHYYYYYYYYYY?!?!?!?!??!

That defeated the whole purpose of what you were rebelling for.  It's bad enough that Black businesses don't get supported by the greater Black community as it is; then you went back to your own neighborhoods, and tore shit up?!  Don't start out doing a revolutionary act, and then do some nigga ass shit afterwards!  STOP listening to YouTube niggas, and READ some REAL revolutionary, conscious history and political thought!  Learn about the BPP-SD, Deacons For Defense, Umknoto We Sizwe, or read some Frantz Fanon, Amilcar Cabral, Amos Wilson, or Robert F. Williams!!  LEARN what you need to know about how to actually be real revolutionaries, and activists!  Keep the rebellion FOCUSED!!!

Anyway........

Keeping my nose to the grindstone.  Trying to continue to pump out episodes of "The Rough Draft", and promote the dual releases.  Hoping to catch on, and gain a following, so that I can make my writing career my full-time gig.  Check out the videos, purchase/download the books, continue to support me.

Keep the fist raised.

#AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind

Going Through The Motions....

SO......

The first full week of May is almost done. This weekend is Mother's Day weekend.  Nooooot really looking forward to it, since my mom past in 2019.  It gets kinda tough to deal with that holiday, whenever it comes around.  My worst days are generally New Years (when she passed), Mother's Day, and on her birthday.  I tend to be a little cranky throughout the day, but I'm usually able to play it off.  I just get pretty quiet, and keep to myself.  That's just me, and how I'm dealing with my grief, for now.  I'll probably find a more constructive way to deal with it in the near future, but for right now, my moodiness will have to do...

Check it out!!!  I've posted the latest episode of "The Rough Draft"!!!  The vlog is now in the double digits!!!  I've posted episodes 10 & 11 on YouTube, so if you have an account, go there and check out the videos.  Don't forget to comment!!!

Episode #10:
 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ee-00p5e_OI


Episode #11:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h29g5r85Tqk&feature=youtu.be

Enjoy the episodes!!!  'Like' the episodes, and don't forget to leave a comment!!  Feedback is always welcome!!  :-)

Still trying to increase sales for my books. Yeah...verbal pats on the back are nice, and people will post positive rhetoric on social media congratulating me on my success...but, I need some damn sales, and reviews!!!  Really, people....cut the shit!!  You're stuck indoors, for crying out loud!!!  I can't even count on you people to download my novels during a pandemic?!?!?!

Aaaaaaanyway.....

I'm considering my options, as to what to do next.  I've got a few ideas marinating in the old noggin.  I'm working on trying to complete the rest of the books in my The Black Fist book series.  I just need to finish the first draft of Book #3, and start writing more chapters in Book #4.  I'm also considering a few sequel ideas, among other projects that I'm writing.  Ahhhhh....a writer's job is never done.

Hope that you enjoyed this little slice of my life.  With this pandemic going on, I'm trying to be a bit more consistent with posting content here.  Can't make you guys any promises, though.  Until next time....

Uhuru sase, y paz.

Keep the fist raised.

#AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind

May Day, and the Pandemic Continues...

What's good, peoples?

Today is the first day of the month of May.  The year is chugging along at a steady clip, despite the pandemic.  The year is almost half done, if you think about it.  Quite shocking, huh...?  :-O

May marks the three-year publishing anniversary of my novel "Seductra: Web of Desire" (CreateSpace, 2017).

Three years ago, I published that novel, and it continues to be one of my favorites.  The project is available in both paperback AND eBook formats.  Please purchase, or even DOWNLOAD a copy of the novel, as well as my other projects.  If you get the opportunity, PLEASE also write a review of the book .

The Dual Release is still going on.  "Suicide Amy" seems to be fairing better that "Time Will Reveal"; I've had more purchases and downloads for that particular project.  Of course, this pandemic isn't helping matters, much.  At the same time, my eBooks are no more than $2-$3; not enough to damage your bank account.

My heart goes out to the indie bookstores that are suffering through this pandemic.  I've been reading some articles posted on Literary Hub about some of the trials and tribulations that a lot of indie bookstores are going through because of their shuttered doors.  Some are moving to do more online sales, while others are making deals with a new company called Bookshop.org; apparently a indie bookshop alternate to Amazon.com.  I believe that my titles are available on Bookshop.org through my eBook publisher Draft2Digital (don't quote me on that, though).  You especially saw the growth of indie bookstores in our Black & Latino communities, a much needed growth, at that.  That growth has been seriously stunted with this pandemic.  They might not survive the recovery, once this pandemic ends.  This really makes me sad; they are a much needed resource in our community, considering how Black bookstores have been ravaged in our communities over that past two decades...

I'm still getting used to my new laptop.  I've had to try to recover some fonts that I'd lost with my old laptop going kaput.  That sucks for me, not only as a writer, but also for some of my graphics that I do for my book covers, and other projects.  Not to mention, I had to get me a new video editing program to continue to produce "The Rough Draft".  I'll let you all know how that works out...

Well, that's all for now.  Hoping to keep you guys in the loop.  The books are available, and ready for purchase.  Please continue to support my works.  I'll let you guys know what else I have coming down the pipeline.

Keep the fist raised!!!!

#AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind   

Radio Interview Aftermath/Adventures in Laptop Hunting

First off...the radio interview was GREEEEEEAAAAT!!!!  :-D

I had such a wonderful time doing the interview!!!  The interview on Dock Radio went on for a little over an hour, but it was great.  The show's host Donya Craddock and I really hit it off, and had a great conversation talking about my various book titles, and my two current books that I recently released.  I got the opportunity to discuss my networking group the Universal Africana Literary Arts Movement, and talk a little bit about my overall activism.  All in all...this was probably THE best radio interview that I've ever had.  Most of my other interviews were rather blah, and it felt like the interviewer never even really paid attention to whichever book I was being interviewed about at the time; this time was different. Donya was very engaging, and was really interested in my work.  The interview flowed really well, and we ended up going a little over our time.  That's what happens when you really enjoy the discussion :-).  I hope to do a return engagement on the show, and also to make a trip out to their bookstore The Dock Bookshop in Ft. Worth,Texas, once this pandemic is over. :-D

Secondly....my old laptop died last Friday, the day after the interview.  :'-(

It was to be expected.  My old laptop was actually old; I'd had it for 9 years.  It wouldn't hold a charge anymore, and it was coming apart.  Once it broke, I was a little frazzled; I didn't really know what to do.  I know that I needed to get a new one, but...with this mf pandemic going on, I didn't know how to get my hands on a new one.  It's my only means to getting online, and writing my books...

Then...I saw a TV commercial for Target...

Wait a minute!!!  Target is considered an 'essential business'!!!  Target is still OPEN!!

YEEEEEEES!!!!!   :-D

Since I don't drive, I figured out which bus line I needed to take to get to the local Target out here, and made plans to go the next day.  I got on the bus, took the ride, and made my way to Target.  Once I got there, I made my way to the electronics department, and started looking at their available laptops.

The pickings were really slim.  There weren't any laptops in the cases.  I was lucky enough to have a really, really cute salesperson come up to me, and ask me if I needed any help.  I let her know what I needed, and that's when she dropped a bomb on me....

"I'm sorry sir...we're out of laptops.  If there aren't any in the display cases, then we're really out.  Because of telecommuting, and schooling from home, we got smacked..."

:-O!!!!!!!

I was SO hurt!!!  This was NOT good!  I really, REALLY needed to get my hands on a laptop.  But, then she said the magic words...

"They should have laptops at Best Buy.  Did you try there, yet...?"

?!?!?!?!?!?!

YEEEEEEEEES!!!!!  :-D

She told me what i needed to hear.  She told me where the nearest Best Buy branch was located, and I went.  I didn't know that they were going to have me stand outside, while they were going into the store to get whatever electronic device you needed.  You basically have to rely on the knowledgeability of the salesperson to fit your needs.  Oh well...I got what I needed, and made my way back home.  Luckily for me, I'd backed up all of my files on my flash drives prior to the old laptop going kaput.  They're now all saved on my new laptop, as well as being able to download all of the programs that I use.

On another note...I was able to shoot and upload the latest episode of "The Rough Draft"; episode number TEN!!!  The show is now in the double digits!!!  I'm proud of myself for that!!!  If you go on YouTube, please watch the episode, and leave a comment!!  And don't forget to subscribe to my channel!!  :-)

Well, that's it for now.  I'll keep you updated on my progress.  Now that I have a new laptop, I can continue with my projects.  Hit you guys up soon!!!

Keep the fist raised.

#AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind      

APRIL RADIO INTERVIEW On DOCK RADIO!!!!! :-D

It's finally been confirmed!!!  I will officially be a guest on OnShore, a radio show on Dock Radio, courtesy of The Dock Bookshop, based in Ft. Worth, TX!!!  YAAAAAAY!!!!

The interview will be taking place on April 16, 2020 at 7pm (Central Time).  The call-in number is listed on the flyer at 972-427-7795.  Hope that you all tune in!!!  I'm really excited about this!!!  I have to admit...it has been a while since I've been able to do any active promotion of any of my literary work(s).  I'm really looking forward to this interview.  We'll be discussion my latest two releases, as well as my writing career spanning the last decade.

I've been getting a few downloads for my books.  Not as many as I would like, but it is something.  Haven't checked for any recent sales (yet), but at least I've gotten a few downloads.  Hey...it's something.  If you can't get a physical copy, at least my work(s) are available in eBook format.

Wish me luck on the interview!!!  I hope that you all tune in!!  SPREAD THE WORD!!!!!

Keep the fist raised!!!

#AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind

April Vibes During the Pandemic

It is now APRIL.  Next week will make it a month since the lockdown due to the COVID-19 coronavirus.  A lot has been shut because of the crisis, and people are stuck indoors.  Everybody is getting pretty antsy and are having anxiety issues.  As for me....I'm chilling.  I'm not that worried about it.  I stay safe, I'm a pretty clean individual, and I keep my head screwed on right.  Most people are confused by what's going on, and there is so much conflicting info out there, that people are starting to get really scared.  This 'unofficial Marshall Law' is what has ME concerned.  A lot of their government directives make no sense, whether local or federal.  But...that's another story for another time...

As far as April is concerned...it's been about THREE weeks so far since the dual book release.  As far as purchases/downloads are concerned, my sales are dismal; only TWO downloads so far.  That's quite irritating, considering that I've been pushing the dual release since December.  It seems like "Suicide Amy" is the book that's garnering the most attention.  Not mad at that, though.  The story is probably more relatable, since "Time Will Reveal" is Sci Fi/Action/Adventure.  Still...I want BOTH of them to get supported.  At the same time, considering the quarantine going on...I expected to have more sales for my books that that.  Reeeeeeeally make me wonder about the folks who claim to call themselves my fans and supporters....

On a happier note.... my short story anthology "Drum Speaking: Tales From An Inner City Griot" (CreateSapce, 2016) is celebrating it's four-year publishing anniversary this month.  Pretty happy about that.  It shows the diversity of my storytelling skills, dabbling into different genres.  That book is available in both paperback AND eBook formats.  Check it out!!!  :-)

On another good note....I might be holding a radio interview!!  I was contacted through email by a bookstore owner that has their own streaming radio show.  We're working out the details as I write this, so please keep your fingers crossed.  The interview SHOULD be taking place on April 16th at 7pm.  I'll let you guys know once the plans are finalized.  Wish me luck!!  :-)

Other than that, just trying to live up to my hashtag #AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind.  There's only so much that I can do, being trapped indoors.  Haven't really been motivated to write anything new, or work on any of my other incomplete projects.  I've mostly been in marketing/promotion mode, trying to generate some sales for the two new joints.  Trying to focus on sales for the eBooks, since that seems to be an easier way for people to gain access to them.

That's all for now.  I'll keep you updated on the radio interview.  Once the plans are finalized, I'll post an FB Event for it, as well as tell you guys about it here.  Keep ya head up, and stay safe!!!

Keep the fist raised!!!
#AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind

  

Viral Living During the Era of COVID-19

Soooooooooo.......

Because of the coronavirus pandemic, a lot of events have been cancelled, and people have been ordered/advised to self-quarantine.  In this day and age of 'social distancing', people have been asked to stay at home, and cancel public events.  That has hurt a lot of us independent creatives who are trying to make a living through our art.  Interpersonal interactions are a way for us to be able to make a living, and compete with  those that have commercial backing to support their careers.  This 'social distancing' is financially hurting us, and are forcing us to be more creative in the ways that we have to reach out to our potential audience.

For me, I have been able to catch up on shooting a few episodes of "The Rough Draft", and post them on YouTube.  Here are the links to the two latest episodes:

Episode #8:
  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pt4WH7J6x-o&fbclid=IwAR01gyp2KRhlEO0Sx8JsUstQhPSQMdsheQQCfQIhXVuHm5UFIiUCHTKAywM

Episode #9:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PlSl_pNkQZY&t=26s

Since COVID-19 will be a part of our everyday lives for the forseeable future, We need to find other alternative ways to get the word out about our works, and gain support.  I listed a few ideas in Episode #9, and hope that it helps.  I really had to think about my fellow members of the Universal Africana Literary Arts Movement, and how some of them may be suffering through these tough times.  I wanted to find some way to help them, as the majority of the events listed on the Spring Season SoE list have been cancelled due to the pandemic outbreak.  I wanted/needed to find a way to help support my brothers & sisters out there, my fellow creatives, and give them options and alternatives to help them to promote their work(s), and maintain their careers.

Hope that you guys enjoy the videos.  Here's to hoping that you'll all go out, and support my career.  Since we're all stuck indoors, nothing beats curling up with a good book to take your mind away from your recent & modern troubles.

#AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind

Keep the fist raised. 

March Madness: My DUAL Book Release!!!

It is now the month of MARCH!!!  The 1st third of the year is already upon us.  Man....time sure does fly nowadays, doesn't it...?  :-O

There's this new super virus out technically called COVID-19.  It's scaring the hell out of a lot of people.  Countries have shut down, and quarantines are in full effect.  Situations like these remind you of just about EVERY zombie apocalypse movie you've ever seen, and wonder just how true those flicks really were to reality.

Now that THAT is out of the way....

The DUAL Book Release!!!!  The books are now HERE!!!!!

Both "Time Will Reveal" (Kindle Direct Publishing, 2020) and "Suicide Amy" (Kindle Direct Publishing, 2020) are now LIVE!!!  They are both available in both paperback AND eBook formats!  YAAAAAAY!!!!  You can get your paperback copies here:

Time Will Reveal:
 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B085RQNF33

Suicide Amy:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B085RVQ5MB

The eBook versions are available through Kindle, Nook, Kobo/Kobo+, iTunes, 24Symbols, Scribd, Playster, Bibliotheca, Hoopla, OverDrive, Baker & Taylor, and internationally through Tolino.  PLEASE go out and support the books.  I've been pushing these two promotionally through my personal Mailing List, as well as through my social media on Facebook and Twitter.  If you truly consider yourself my fan and supporter, don't let me down.  Especially if you're gonna be stuck inside because of COVID-19 precautions, what better way to past the time, than by reading a few of my novels...?

Haven't set up a date to do any public readings, and who knows how long these COVID-19 precautions and quarantines will last.  I MIGHT  do a viral book reading online via YouTube, but I'm still debating that.  Speaking of YouTube....I dropped my SEVENTH video for "The Rough Draft" series. I've also just uploaded my updated Author Book Trailer for this year 2020.  Check it out when you get the chance.

That's gonna be all for now.  Hope that you guys enjoyed this latest entry.  Don't know when I'm going to post another blog, since they're shutting down the libraries here for an undetermined amount of time; I go there for the internet access.  Stay safe, and keep reading!!!

Keep the fist raised!!!

#AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind

It's my TEN YEAR Anniversary!!!! :-D

It's Finally February!!!  I've officially been published for TEN YEARS!!!!  Yay me!!!!  :-D

February has special meaning for me.  I've officially been in the publishing game for TEN YEARS!!!  I started my journey when my first book was released in 2010, starting with "Raise Your Brown Black Fist: The Political Shouts of an Angry Afro Latino" (Authorhouse, 2010).  It's been TEN years, and currently TEN books strong.  I'm pretty excited about that.  I've been consistently in this game for an entire decade.  Not too many people can claim the same.

As well as February being my author anniversary, it's also the FIVE year publishing anniversary of my novel "The Chronicles of The Black Fist" (CreateSpace, 2015), my VERY first novel I might add, and the TWO year publishing anniversary for "Fiesta Girl" (Draft2Digital, 2018).  Both books are available in paperback AND eBook formats (including Kindle), so you have options on how you can support my work (not to mention, NO excuses).

I'm looking forward to doing it big this year.  I'm trying to get out more, and do more in-person appearances.  I'm trying to get put on to a few festivals and book fairs that are out there.  I'm ready to apply to two of them, as I write this.  Both are in May, and because of the dearth of books that I've written, I can choose which titles of mine that I think would be appropriate to vend at them.  I'll hit you off with the details later, when my participation is confirmed....

Gearing myself up for my next literary release.  The DUAL book release is NEXT MONTH!!!  I'm just giving both manuscripts the final touches; dotting the "i"s and crossing the "t" s, making sure that all is straight, and correct.  I've been promoting their release for the last 3 months, or so, and I'm expecting a certain level of support.  The Facebook Event for the dual release hasn't been very promising, and the response to my e-blasts has been very nonexistent.  I'm hoping that my efforts don't get brushed off.  Like I said in my hashtag, I'm #AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind.

Working on the latest listing for the Universal Africana Literary Arts Movement.  I'm trying to take advantage of the lists, as I make them.  I want to do more in-person appearances, and get back to doing a few more festivals/book fairs/comic cons.  A few of my action/adventure book titles would do well at a few of the Black comic cons out there, and I want to try to take advantage of that, and get a table to vend.  Not only could I gain support from the artists who are on the Mailing List, I could also build an audience for my books from the attendees.    

Anywaaaaay....that's all I have for now.  I'm just continuing to enjoy my anniversary, and work on my projects.  I'm excited for next month, when I drop my two new book titles.  Looking forward to getting the support for my works that I deserve!!  :-)

Keep the fist raised.
uhuru sase, y paz.
#AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!! Welcome to 2020!!!!!

Omg......it's 2020!!!  TWENTY-TWENTY!!!!!!  :-O!!!!!  Reminds you of some type of futuristic, Sci Fi movie shit, don't it...?

Aaaaaaaaaaanyway...

Welcome to the new year!!!  Had to work my day job on New Years Day....not to mention, it was the one-year anniversary of my mother becoming an ancestor....but, other than that, it was okay.  Went on a "follicle fast" by shaving my head and facial hair, starting on the Winter Solstice, up until New Years.  Now, I'm letting my hair grow back.  Was trying to purge myself of any negative energies stored in my follicles, and releasing them into the universe, starting the new year anew.  seems to be working, so far....

Looking forward to making things happen in 2020!!!  As I always hashtag throughout my social media accounts, #AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind!!!  I'm trying to get back out there, and do more public appearances; whether at festivals/book fairs, doing panel discussions, or organizing my own shit.  Need to get my face out there more.  It's now or never, if I'm ever going to have a viable writing career.   Fuck this struggling shit.....

Also for this year.....MARK YOUR CALENDARS!!!!!  The countdown has officially begun!!!

Looking forward to the DUAL book release this year of both "Time Will Reveal" (Kindle Direct Publishing, 2020), and "Suicide Amy" (Kindle Direct Publishing, 2020) this year.  Looking forward to their publication in March; March 13th is when they'll BOTH be released, to be exact.  Already started promoting their releases on my other social media, as well as through eblasts to my personal Mailing List. Let's hope that these particular books will be supported by my fans.

It's January, so it also marks the One Year Publishing Anniversary for the release of "The Chronicles of The Black Fist: F.U.R.I. of the People" (Kindle Direct Publishing, 2019).  Sales haven't been anywhere near where I wanted them to be, and feedback has been minimal....abysmal is more like it.  This is a HOT character, and a HOT story.  A self-made, grassroots BLACK superhero, for crying out loud!!!  C'mon, people!!!!  Don't complain about not having shit, and then NOT supporting wtf you've been begging and crying for!  It's now a series, as it is Book II in the saga.  I'm still working on writing Books III & IV in the series, so this character is NOT going anywhere!!!  He is still going to represent, and I will continue to write this wonderful novel series.  Don't wait for the book to gain white/mainstream approval; that may never happen.  Get in on the grassroots level; that's what really matters.  #TellingOurOwnStories

I might try to focus my efforts into PA, and So. Jersey.  I think that you may have untapped audiences out there that are begging for something to read.  My work(s) might appeal to those populations out there.  Just gotta do the research and continue to grind.  I just live in Delaware; I don't need to conquer it.  They ain't readers out here, anyway.

Well, I hope that the new year is treating you all well.  I'll keep you updated as to the release of the new books; books nos. 11 & 12.  This year also makes it TEN YEARS that I've been published.  Looking to make a LOT of noise about it next month in February...my OFFICIAL anniversary!!  Stay tuned.

Keep the fist raised!!!
Uhuru sase, y paz!!!!!