June Vibes/ #AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind

 We are now in the month of JUNE!!!  The year of 2021 is officially half over!!  :-O!!!  Time sure is flying this year, ain't it....?

Okay...first up.  News about my latest novel "Knuckle Up" (Kindle Direct Publishing, 2021)....

Sales have been abysmal.  I had ONE purchase (a download) last month, and that was on some quid pro quo type shit.  I'm starting to get really irritated by the lack of support.  I continue to do the online promotion of this project...sending out my weekly e-blasts to my contacts list on my email Mailing List, but I get nothing in return.  I'm getting irritated that nobody is taking me or my writing career seriously, even my so-called 'friends' and 'followers' on social media.  Eleven years, and thirteen books later...you'd think people would finally start to get it.  But, then again....I'm not being mentioned by the white establishment, or have a big hype machine behind me.  Whatever...

ALSO....June marks the six-year publishing anniversary of my novel "Demure Nights" (CreateSpace, 2015).

I dropped this Street Lit/Erotica novel in June of 2015.  It was part of a three-book publishing binge that I was on.  It was in the middle of my trying to work on my writing career full time; from 2014-2017.  2015 was the banner year, as I dropped 3 books that year, and Demure Nights was number two on that list.  The book is still available in both paperback & eBook formats.  I'm quite proud of this novel, as it was a clear departure of my more politically tinged books that were available, at the time.  It's a really good story, but completely slept on, just like a lot of my other novels.  Hey...it's still out there, and available in the marketplace.  

Still currently writing Book III of The Black Fist novel series.  I'm at least 75% - 85% done writing the first draft.  The final chapter has actually already been written, so I just have to find a way to conclude the story, so that the ending makes sense.  The story is flowing really well, for the most part.  I'm hoping to be done with the draft by the end of the year.  Hopefully, I'll be able to publish the project in 2022.  We shall see...

For those of you who do not know....I've created an account on VIMEO!  I've added a few episodes of "The Rough Draft" on there, as well as my latest Author Book Trailer.  I'm hoping to get better results on Vimeo, than I do on YouTube.  So far, it's looking about the same.  Oh, well...I can only do so much to market & promote myself.  Check me out at www.vimeo.com/AuthorKevinSabio.

 

ALSO....I have finally updated my Author Page on Amazon.com.  I have included a picture of myself, as well as added a few photos, and the latest Author Book Trailer.  I'm hoping that this bit of marketing will help to make my books more visible to people on there, and any potential fans out there on Amazon.  Now, if I could just get a few more reviews on there for my books...

 

I'm back at work at my old day job.  They (finally) called me back to work.  I'm actually quite glad, as my savings were starting to run a lot lower than I like.  I kinda miss having the free time to work on my writing, and market my books, but still...I need the paycheck.  Plus, I was going outta my mind with boredom.  I need to have something to do with my life, other than just flip channels.  At least I have options, now.  I'm hoping to take advantage of the job, and transfer to another account in another state by the end of the year, if not next year.   I've mf had it with Delaware, and need a new place to try to grow my career.  Hopefully, I can move to a city/state where people actually read.  I was thinking DC, but it's still pretty expensive to live out there.  I don't know...I still have six more months to figure shit out...

I'm considering a conversion project.  I have this basketball movie that I wrote, basically 20 years ago.  It's about female basketball players called "Second Chance Points".  I loved writing that film, and really wish that I had the opportunity to produce it.  It would've been a big budget movie, so there was no way that I'd be able to fund it on my own.  I think that it would make a great novel, and I'm strongly considering converting it.  I'm just really hesitant to do that, considering the lack of support the majority of my books get.  Knuckle Up is about female boxer, and I can't get ANYBODY to really rock with that novel; not even the female fighters that I follow on social media (Twitter, specifically).  What's the fucking point, then?  I don't subscribe to that bullshit I-write-my-books-for-myself nonsense.  If that were true, yo ass wouldn't bother going through the process of publishing your book(s), and putting it/them out there in the marketplace.  I'm not trying to publish something that won't be supported.  Oh well...we'll see.  I'll let you know what I decide.

That's all for now.  Hoping to post another blog entry for you guys, soon.  It's kinda hard to be consistent, when you don't feel supported in your endeavors.  Until next time...

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

 

 

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

It's Now DECEMBER :-O!!!!!!!/Publishing Release 2020

It's been a while, hasn't it?  Think I missed an entire month worth of posts, haven't I...?

Well...first things, first.  It's December.  FRIGGIN DECEMBER!!!  :-O!!!!  It's the end of the year, already!!!  Man, time sure did fly this year, didn't it?  The Winter Solstice, Christmas, and Kwanzaa are right around the corner, down the street, and sitting there on the corner, waiting for all of us.

As an end-of-year wrap up, this years was quite uneventful.  I was happy to have released my second entry in The Black Fist book series with the release this year of "The Chronicles of The Black Fist: F.U.R.I. of the People" (Kindle Direct Publishing, 2019).  The sales for it were OBVIOUSLY nowhere near where I wanted them to be.  Of course, my instability at employment this year caused me to be unable to properly promote the book publicly, and had to resort to strictly online sales, which have never been a strong suit for me.  People are quick to press a 'like' button, but sure as shit won't press the 'buy now'/'add to cart' button.....

 Aaaaaaaaanyway....

GOOD NEWS!!!!!  :-)

2020 marks TEN YEARS that I've been a published author!!!!  Yay me!!!  Aaaaaand....to celebrate my tenth year as a published author, I will be holding a DUAL BOOK RELEASE!!!!

Target date for the release of both books will be March 13, 2020.  MARK YOUR CALENDARS!!!  And PLEASE actually buy and read the books!!  I've already created an FB Event for it, and have posted a few update there.  If you have an FB account, join the event, and help to spread the word!!


As it is December, I have also posted the latest episode of "The Rough Draft" to YouTube!!!  Episode number SIX!!!  You can check it out here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yW6XRG8Znw0

If you have a YouTube account, PLEASE leave a comment...as well as 'liking' the video.  All I want is some feedback.  Is that so much to ask for...?  This will be my last video for the year, as I have other things that I'm preparing for, and need to focus on.  I will start shooting and posting new videos in the new year.  Six episodes ain't that bad.  I'm proud of myself.  :-)

That's about all form me, for now.  I'll try to be a bit more consistent on here, to finish the year out strong.  He's to hoping for improved sales, and better support in the coming new year.  Gonna be grinding plenty, in 2020!!!  Hey...I kind like that!!!  I might make that my new slogan for the Literary Arts Movement in 2020!!!  :-)

Keep the fist raised
Uhuru sase, y paz
#AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind

 

August News....

Peace, folks!  Yeah, I know....it's been a hot minute since I posted a blog.  My apologies.  The day job has been dominating my time as of late.  But now, I'm back with the latest news.

First off....it's the 4 year publishing anniversary for my poetry eBook "Spittin' Lyrics N Waxin' Poetic" (Draft2Digital, 2015).  Can't believe that it's been fours years since I published that particular book, my first eBook only project.  Sales haven't been impressive at all, but I'm proud of publishing it nonetheless.

It's the birth month for both of my parents.  Their birthdays (not to mention, their wedding anniversary) are in the same week & month. Feeling a little sad about that, as my mother is no longer here among the living.  That's gotta be hard on my pops.  Happy birthday, dad!!!

I FINALLY got around to shooting the pilot episode of "The Rough Draft".  It is now available on Youtube.  You can view it through the link here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wyfPsiWOXmA&feature=youtu.be

Hope that you enjoy the video!!!  I apologize for the poor sound quality, as I didn't realize that I was mumbling when I was talking.   I was tired when I'd shot the episode; that's what I get for shooting an episode after work.  I should've waited for one of my days off, but I was working multiple days that week, I just wanted to get the shit done.  I can hear my communications professors screaming in my ears about the "5 Ps"...  (Proper Planning Prevents Poor Productions).

On the Universal Africana Literary Arts Movement front, I've finally compiled the preliminary Schedule of Events (SoE) list, and emailed it out.  I still have some November events that should be added, but I need the info to do that, and the outlets haven't posted any updates to their websites.  Oh well....I do what I can.

Time Will Reveal (2020) is DONE!!!  The cover art is finished, and the book is ready.  I just need to figure out when I'm going to actually publish the book next year. I haven't picked a date, yet.  If you guys have any suggestions, feel free to let me know when you'd like ot see it come out.

Other than that,  I'm just trying to figure out a strategy for the upcoming fall, to finish out the year on a strong note.  I wouldn't mind doing some vending, or a few public readings of my latest book.  The promotions for my books have been lacking as of late, an unfortunate consequence of a having a day job with an inconsistent schedule.  Weekends are out, and my days off aren't always consistent; not to mention, my days off always fall on weekdays.  Oh well, I'll figure something out....

That's it for me, right now.  Hope to be a little more consistent with my blog posts.  if not, I might just do more videos, and post the links for them here.

Keep the fist raised, my peoples.....

April Happenings....

Welcome to April!!!  Spring is in the air!!!!

First off...April the the publishing anniversary for my book "Drum Speaking: Tale From an Inner City Griot" (CreateSpace, 2016).  I published the book THREE years ago, a collection of short stories.  I'm pretty proud of that anthology, as it showcases my storytelling abilities (imho).  Available in both paperback AND eBook formats.  Hook a brotha up with some purchases, or a download, or 20.  ;-)

Still plugging away at promoting "FURI of the People".  Sales are typically as I expected; dismal.  Still constantly promoting the novel through e-blasts, and pushing it via social media.  I can count the number of purchases and downloads that I've received so far on ONE hand.  Instead of just pressing the "like"  button every time I post the link for it on social media, how about pressing the "buy now" button...?  I would like to do a few comic cons and book fairs, but money is the issue.  Especially now that I'm in between jobs, I need to be smart with my money so that it can last to cover my essential bills.  AGAIN....available in BOTH paperback AND eBook formats.

All my New Jersey people stand up!!!  The Khem Comic Fest is back!!!  Brick City representing!!!  Back with their 5th installment of the comic festival (and more), Come out to Newark on April 13th!!!  Purchase your tickets now!!!  Help to spread the word and PLEASE come through!!!  I'm hoping to make it out there, myself! It would be nice to get out of town for a little while, and be able to enjoy myself.

I've always said that as Afro Latinos, we NEED to be more involved with the rest of the African diaspora.  Here is an opportunity for us to make it happen: a symposium is being held at Delaware State University (an HBCU) called the Pan African Development Conference, looking to help build up sustainable agriculture and economic initiatives for Africa.  My dear brother and comrade Ezrah Aharone is one of the leading figures of this symposium.  It is a 3-day event, form April 10th-12th.  Here is the flyer for it:

You can register online.  The info is all on the flyer.  Spread the word, mi gente.  Come out , and support this, and make it part of El Movmiento Afrolatinidad!!!

I'm still working on other literary projects.  Still writing the other sequels to my 'The Black Fist Saga'; Books III and IV.  I'm still developing the characters and storyline(s).  The rough drafts are going, so I can at least say that.  At the same time, I'm still editing my Street Lit novel "Suicide Amy", based on one of my old screenplays. My new Sci fi novel "Time Will Reveal" is pretty much complete; I'm considering publishing it next year in 2020.  All I really need for it now, is some decent cover art.  I have a concept for it in my head, but I don't know if I'll design it myself, or hire and outside artist.  I'll let y'all know....

Well, that's it for now.  It's still early in the month, so I'm sure that I'll have more stuff to inform you about as the month progresses.  Finally designed a shirt and hat with the Universal Africana Literary Arts Movement logo on it.  Gonna order me a set, soon, and hopefully take a picture rocking the gear.  Catch you guys on the rebound!!

Keep the fist raised.

Updates for March...

Soooooooo......it's been a while.

"F.U.R.I. of the People" has been out for about a month and a half, so far.  Sales are as I expected them to be....dismal.  I've had TWO purchases so far, and no downloads that I know of.  Yeah....people are reeeeeeeally supportive of my career, smgdmfh...

I chucked my day job.  It got to be too much.  It was becoming a hostile work environment, and I wasn't having that.  I liked my boss, and the people in my department; it was the higher ups that made the place difficult to work at.  Specifically, it was ONE higher up that made it hard to be there.  Oh well.  When the bitch is standing there, BY HERSELF, with nobody to work there (except, maybe nothing but temps), maaaaaybe the job will finally get rid of her stupid ass.  She's the main reason why nobody want to work there anyway, and why they have such a high turnover rate.  Then again, wtf do I know...?

I've actually just completed writing my next novel.  It's a Sci Fi/Action novel called "Time Will Reveal"; another conversion job.  It is starting to seem that some of my screenplays actually work better as novels, lol, lol, lol.  I'm also still working on Book III and Book IV of the Black Fist series; they're both still in the rough draft stages, as I haven't finished writing them yet.  I'm also still editing "Suicide Amy"; my Street Lit novel.  So many projects, so little time, lol, lol, lol.  Don't ask me how the hell do I do it....I don't even know how I do it.  I'm just a natural storyteller.  It would be nice if people actually appreciated that fact, and invested in my mf books.

Aaaaaaaanyway......

I still want to do that vlog "The Rough Draft".  I just need to take the time to actually shoot it.  Kiiiinda don't want to shoot it at my residence, and have it look all bootleg, and whatnot.  I could easily shoot it on my laptop, and then edit it in MovieMaker; it doesn't need to be uber professional.  At the same time, I have higher standards, having been a Communications major in college, and all.  Maybe I'm just overthinking this, and making it more complicated than it needs to be....?  We'll see what happens.

Been connecting a lot with my Jamii lately, and have started to make some long term (and short term) goals. One of my more long term goals is to FINALLY repatriate to the continent.  With the way that things are going in this bullshit country, and considering how spinless & ignorant a lot of people are nowadays, I DEFINITELY need to gtfoh.  Right now, I'm just doing my research on the different countries that I want to go to.  I've at least narrowed it down to five countries; two in the west of Africa, and three in the east.  Repatriation has actually been on my mind for quite some time now, and I'm feeling the call to do it more and more in recent years.  Hopefully within the next year or two, I can finally make that commitment, and finally move there.  Research and preparation are the immediate concerns right now.  I'll let you all know how that progresses.

That's about it for now.  Hopefully, the sales will improve.  Still debating if I should do a reading & book signing, or not.  I'd rather do a festival, or comic con, or something to that effect, but that costs money.  Being unemployed hinders that a lot.  I'll let you know what happens.

Keep the fist raised.

Fiesta Girl eBook Novel

IT'S FINALLY HERE!!!!

My latest novel "Fiesta Girl" is finally live!  Published through Draft2Digital, this Urban Lit/Romance novel is one Urban (Afro) Latino love story that you won't want to miss!!!

"Brooklyn's own Alonzo Carrion is a gifted writer and poet....and a hopeless romantic.  After being the victim of a recent heartbreak, not even his writing can help him to clear his mind, and ease his soul.  Enter Rita Lebron, a down-to-earth Fashion Design student student from the Lower East Side, ready and willing to become his muse.  After a chance meeting while out with friends at a party, they fall for each other, fast and hard.

But...Rita has some dark relationship demons that she has to deal with.  Will the lovestruck couple fight through the darkness, and persevere....or, will they let their personal demons control their hearts, and derail their relatioship?  Set in 1990's New York City to the soundtracks of Latin Freestyle and Hip hop, this is one Urban Afro Latino love story that you won't want to miss.  Based on the original screenplay by the author!!"

Available exclusively in eBook format only!!  Distributed through such channels as Kindle, Nook, Kobo, Kobo+, iTunes, Scribed, 24Symbols, Playster, Overdrive, and internationally through Tolino!

Keep the fist raised!!!!!   

End-of-Year Progress Report 2017

So, it is now December.  The year is coming to a close....

This year has definitely been a transitional year for me.  I finally got the fuck out of New York, and have been out here in Delaware for the past 10 months.  I've been able to secure a job, and am currently renting a room.  I was able to publish at least one book this year, my latest effort called "Seductra: Web of Desire" (CreateSpace, 2017).  The sales have been slow, but that's to be expected.  People makes claims of support, but all they do is press the "like" button, and go on their merry way.  It doesn't help that I haven't been able to promote the book like I want to because of my work schedule, making public appearances and all, but hey...what can you do?

Sales have been slow overall for all of my titles, but again...that's to be expected.  All in all, this has been a pretty good year.  I'm feeling more at ease with myself, and my spirit isn't as dark and clouded as before.  I do feel more relaxed, and in a better frame of mind.  I do have to admit, one thing that I really had to learn this year was patience.  I've been struggling for so long, that I want to be able to see results immediately.  I'm still learning to have patience; its an ongoing struggle.

I'm looking forward to 2018.  I plan to publish yet another book titled "Fiesta Girl".  It will be available only in eBook format; I didn't feel that the page count was long enough for a paperback novel.  I should be dropping it in February, around Akoma Day (Feb 14th-Feb 20th).  I'm looking forward to doing more public appearances to promote my books, and do some outreach in some of the surrounding cities, and other areas.  Hopefully, I'll be able to participate in some book fairs, and festivals in 2018.  I would love to get back on the festival circuit; considering that I provide a listing for the Universal Africana Literary Arts Movement, I'm looking forward to taking advantage of some of the information that I come across.

On a personal note, I'm hoping to earn enough money to get my own apartment.  Renting a room has provided me with a roof over my head, but there is nothing like getting back to having your own space.  My roommates come and go, and some of them have been cool, but I NEED my own place.  I would also like to be able to meet someone that I can settle down with.  Shit....a brother be getting lonely sometimes.  It would be nice to find someone to have a steady and long term relationship with....

So, if you don't hear from me before the new year comes, may you all enjoy the positive energies of the Winter Solstice, Merry Christmas, happy Kwanzaa, and have a happy and blessed New Year!!!!

Uhuru sase, y paz!!!!!         

Literary Updates

The story so far.....

So, "Seductra: Web of Desire" (CreateSpace, 2017) has been out for about five months now via eBook, and paperback.  Haven't really seen any decent sales as of yet, but a whole like of 'likes' on social media.  People obviously don't get the hint that they need to PURCHASE an actual copy of the book in order to actually SUPPORT me and my writing career.  None of my other titles have moved much either, though I have to admit that I haven't been actively promoting my work like I usually do as of late b/c of my lack of internet access.  I didn't go hardcore on promoting my works for Latino Heritage Month this year, not that that has ever made a difference.  It just makes the struggle harder, and makes me question those that call themselves my friends and supporters.

I've completed one of my more recent manuscripts, and have been going through the editing process as of late.  It's an Afro Latino love story called "Fiesta Girl", yet another one of my conversion projects (Demure Nights and Seductra were also originally screenplays that I've converted into novels).  I'm trying to expand it, as I personally feel that the page and word count are quite low for a novel.  If I can't expand it beyond the current word/page count, I might just choose to release it solely as a eBook.  I'm quite skeptical to do that, honestly; one of my other projects is available exclusively as an eBook [Spittin' Lyrics N Waxin' Poetic (Draft2Digital, 2015)], and the sales for THAT particular project are dismal, and not very promising.  I'll let you know what I plan to do when I'm finished editing that project.  Fiesta Girl is a personal favorite of mine, and I'm in no rush to release it before it's ready, and I'm completely happy with the story.  I'm working on the cover design for it as I write this....

I'm hoping to end the year on a positive note.  I'm considering doing a Kwanzaa event, or two, and hoping to focus my energies on 2018.  I'm not really planning on publishing anything in 2018; just promoting my remaining works, and getting my name out there.   It would help if I had SOME sort of residual income additionally coming in.  Other than that, it's all about promotion and exposure in 2018.

Not really planning on releasing anything in the coming year.  I MIGHT release "Fiesta Girl"....IF I'm satisfied with the story.  I'm still working on completing one of the sequels to "The Chronicles of The Black Fist" (CreateSpace, 2015), hopefully by 2018.  Don't know if I'll release it, or not, when it's finally finished....

Other than that, I'm just hoping to gain some REAL support, and gain some readers; hopefully I can make an impact locally here in Delaware.  I've gotten to know some people out here that are interested in my work, which is the whole reason why I moved out here in the first place.  Start small and locally, and then go from there.

Wish me luck!!!   :-D

The Day Job Grind, Part III: #TheTransplantChronicles7

So, where was I....?

Oh yeah, I've been working at my new job, which is now my primary job.  I work food service at a local hotel out here in Delaware.  Basically, I'm a glorified dishwasher (and unofficial kitchen gofer).  The job isn't bad at all; I have unlimited access to food, which I love, considering how I've been starving for the last 2-3 years.  It's a pretty easy job since the kitchen isn't very fast paced; only when we have events going on, and a high occupancy rate.  I actually like the job.

Other than that, things are going pretty well.  I'm STILL trying to publish "Seductra" as a paperback, but CreateSpace keeps fucking with me, ab out my file size.  They keep sending me emails back that there is not enough bleed space for the cover.  How much mf bleed space do you mf need?!?!?!?  Publish the gd book already!!!!!!  It is still available as an eBook, but still....I would like to have the paperback as well.

Speaking of which...I would love to see "Seductra: Web of Deisre" and "Demure Nights" air on late night CineMax.  As it is, they were both originally supposed to be screenplays, anyway.  Also, "Seductra" was actually inspired by me watching CineMax late at night.  Hey....Black and Brown folk can be freaky, but classy, too!  Who knows...if I ever get the support for those books, I actually might get an offer like that, sometime in the distant future.

Other than that, I'm just trying to figure out my next move.  I need to decide if I'm going to focus on another literary project, or hang back for now, and concentrate purely on promoting my current works. I have to admit, it is quite frustrating to have projects available for sale, but have absolutely NO support for your work.  All I have is people giving me lip service on social media, talking about how much they support me.  How many of them actually owns a copy of my book titles...?  THAT remains to be seen, smdh.....

I'm hoping to up my internet usage.  Right now, I'm only able to get online once, maybe twice a week.  I'm used to being online more often than that.  It would also help me to get over this crap with CreateSpace, as far as publishing "Seductra: Web of Desire" as a blasted paperback.  Only time will tell.  Stay tuned, and keep following me!!!

Stay tuned.....

Author Book Trailer (Eighth Book title Included)

Recently updated the author book trailer to include "Seductra: Web of Desire".  Now, all eight books are now featured in the book trailer.  Please feel free to share, distribute, and SUPPORT my literary works.

So without further ado....

Hope that you enjoy the show.  Created through Windows Moviemaker.  Don't forget to support my books!!  Feel free to write a review after reading them!!!  Support your indie authors!!!!

Uhuru sase, y paz.

My Latest Progress & Updates: #TheTransplantChronicles4

So, I've official been here in Wilmington for a little over 2 months.  I'm getting a little more acclimated by the day.  I just wish that I had a little more freedom to explore the city, like I want to; living at this shelter has hindered my ability to really do that. BUT...the good news is that I FINALLY have found a day job.  I'll be working as an Assistant Manager at a box store out here.  No...I will not name the store.  It's a day job....that's it.  This is just a means for me to put money in my pocket, and be able to finance my goals as a writer.  I actually start next week Monday (April 17th), in which I will be training for 2 weeks at a store out in New Castle, and then start working at my regular location in Wilmington.  Hell....it's a job.  I need a way to put money in my pocket.  I'm tired of suffering, and being broke; I need to get back to living like a fucking human being.

My new novel "Seductra: Web of Desire" is ready to be published.  I'm pretty happy with it, and I'm looking forward to releasing it.  Whether or not this will gain me some new fans, I have no idea.  Personally, I enjoyed writing the story, and developing the characters.  I hope that the novel is well received by the public.  I've done what I can to promote its release, both here on the blog, and through my email contacts.  Of course, I don't know who really pays attention to my emails, so who knows how effective that'll be by the time the book is release.  If that were true, then every time I've sent out an eBlast promoting a publishing anniversary, I should see an uptick in sales...which NEVER happens.  Oh well....

The winds of change are blowing.  Things are starting to improve for me, little by little.  I'm very appreciative of that, considering the crap that I've been dealing with for the last several years.  I'm looking forward to earning a paycheck again, having a cellphone again, and just moving on with my life and writing career.  Hopefully, my schedule will become consistent enough to the point where I can actually go out, and do festivals/book fairs/conventions.  I need to update my business cards, and I want to be able to order (personal) copies of my novels.  Personally, I feel like I'm behind in some of my goals, but the Creator never puts you in a situation that you can't handle, and all is done when the Creator feels that it is your time.  I'm learning that more and more.

Wish me luck, and PLEASE continue to support my career, and literary efforts.  Be on the lookout for "Seductra: Web of Desire" when I release it.  Also, please continue to support my other literary works.

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

Progress Report: #TheTransplantChronciles

So....I've been out here for almost two weeks now.  Since my relocation, I've sent out a bunch of resumes to a number of different businesses looking for work, and continuing to apply for jobs online.  I've even done the old school thing of just walking into a business, and dropping off my resume'.  So far, I've had at least one interview (for a little food spot out here), but I haven't heard anything back yet.  Hopefully this will turn into something, like a blasted job.  I've also talked to a sole proprietor out who owns a gym, and we're trying to work out a barter deal, where I work for him, in exchange for a free membership, and use of the gym.  I'll let you know how that goes, and if any jobs come through....

I finally took the time to go out, yesterday.  There was a local event going on celebrating the local business community, and the arts.  I wasn't able to stay very long because of obligations that I have at the shelter where I'm staying, but from what I was able to experience, it was pretty okay.  Hopefully, I can make some connections while I'm out here, and help to jumpstart my presence as a writer in Wilmington, if not the state of Delaware. Really, I came out here to be able to strategically get around to the different literary & cultural events that I know that goes on around this region (the Mid Atlantic), but it also helps to have a local presence.

Still working on my literary projects.  I've converted yet another of my original screenplays into a novel.  "Time Will Reveal" is an Action/Science Fiction/Time Travel saga.  There is actually an excerpt to that story in my anthology Drum Speaking called "Time Will Reveal: The Autonomy Wars".  I've actually included that story into the novel, as it better explains the story.  TWR is now officially a first draft.  I don't know when I plan to publish it; I'm kinda getting tired of publishing books, and then struggling to promote them.  As much as I promote my work online through social media, and via e-blasts through my personal Mailing List, I should be having SOME sort of traction with sales.  Then again, that's negative thinking, and I got AWAY from NYC to get away from negative thinking.

Looking forward to publishing "Seductra: Web of Desire" by this summer.  The story is practically done, editing-wise.  The cover(s) are already designed (by me, of course), and I'm just waiting to publish it in May/June.  Once I'm settled here in Wilmington, and more secure financially, I'll move on to publish it.  There appears to be a growing local arts scene, and I'm hoping to be able to take advantage of that.

So far, the count is two first drafts (Fiesta Girl, and Time Will Reveal), and two books yet to be completed (Walk Like a Warrior, The Chronicles of The Black Fist 2).  I think that once I start working, and get my own place, I'll be able to concentrate more on those two unfinished projects, when I have free time.  I still want to get back onto the festival circuit to promote my current books, and put a little extra money in my pocket.  I think my work will be more appreciated out here, than in NYC.  Once I find a (day) job, and the money starts coming in, I'll be able to make more solidified plans as to my next moves.  I see a bit of potential out here for me, and if I can tap into that potential, the sky could be the limit, if not another boundary to break through.

That's pretty much it for me, right now.  Still writing, still grinding to find a day job.  Until my next progress report, keep me in your prayers, and be on the look out for my next post.

Keep the fist raised!

HAPPY NEW YEAR: updates & progress

My first post of 2017.  Let's see what I can make of it this time around....

Good riddance to last year.  That was one for the books.  Glad that it is now over with.  Time to move the fuck on.

My latest literary project "Seductra" is going well.  I've decided to publish that book this year, instead of waiting until 2018.  I still have two other manuscripts that I can wait to complete and publish in 2018.  I will probably publish Seductra in June, to coincide with the 2-year publishing anniversary of Demure Nights; both books are similar in contact (Street Lit/Erotica).  Basically, I wanna do a marketing double-whammy for both projects. I'm just going through the final edits right now.  I've already designed the front and back cover for the book; all I have to do now is wait until I'm ready to publish it.  It's good when I can really take my time to work on a particular book project.

Speaking of publishing anniversaries....mine is coming up in February.  Next month makes it SEVEN years that I've been published.  Not to mention, February marks the 2-year publishing anniversary of The Chronicles of The Black Fist.  I'm really hoping to go hard in promoting that anniversary; seven years of consistently working on my craft, and celebrating the release of my first novel.  I have to admit, TCoTBF is a favorite project of mine, and I've been working really hard to promote it to the masses.  Hopefully, I can get to do more festivals, and other appearances, to help market it more.

Moving forward with the relocation plans!  I've suffered enough for 2 1/2 years struggling as a fulltime writer in NYC.  That place just isn't conducive to be an artist anymore; not unless you're a trust fund baby being bankrolled by filthy rich parents, and investors.  I've known a number of my fellow artivists and authorpreneurs that have left the city/state, and are doing MUCH better in their new home state.  Hoping to be out of here before the end of January.  Been looking into jobs, and looking for a place to crash.  If I have to start from scratch someplace else, then that's what I've gotta do.  Fuck it.

I'm looking to expand upon the Universal Africana Literary Arts Movement.  I want to be able to (FINALLY) organize the annual Expo, as well as do some other extension programs.  Not really willing to go the nonprofit route with it; I don't care to be chasing people down for funding, just so I can organize an event.  I'm too much of a grassroots activist to be shilling for funding like that.  I've had a number of ideas rolling around in my head, I just don't have the support, finances, or manpower to enact them, especially not here in NYC.  Better to do them someplace else, where my efforts will be better appreciated.  I want to do a monthly/weekly showcase of local literary, poetic, and artistic talent (comic books).  I already have the idea written out (the Nommo Kuumba Literary & Poetic Showcase); I just have to be able to organize it, which is the issue.

That's all for now.  Just working on building up my writing career, relocating, and working on other activist and advocacy projects.  I'll keep you guys updated on my progress.

Keep the fist raised!!!!

End-of-Year Progress Report 2016

The year has come to an end, and 2016 is about to transition into 2017.  The year was NOT a good one for me.  Good riddance.  It was just as bad, if not worse, than 2015.

I was hospitalized about three times (once for a panic attack, twice for issues with Kidney stones), continued to suffer financially, and had a few prospects crash and burn.  I've continued to cut off phony people from my life, and made plans to relocate.  I'm hoping to enact those plans after the new year.  Fuck New York, and the rotten, negative energy that's here surrounding me. It's too gentrified, and phony out here; nuccas ain't about shit.  There's no originality, and Brooklyn has lost its soul.  It's not a city of trend setters, but trend followers; buncha blind ass, oreo-assed sheeple.

Of the GOOD that has happened to me (very little)...I dropped my seventh book back in April, a short story anthology, titled Drum Speaking: Tales From an Inner City Griot (CreateSpace, 2016).  I participated on a panel at the Bronx Book Fair, and was able to help support a few friends at some of their panel discussions, or other literary events.  I was also able to volunteer at the Brooklyn Book Festival, and represent for Caribbean Cultural Theatre.  Being at those festivals made me miss being on the festival/convention/book fair circuit, and want to get back to that.  Hopefully, once I relocate and get back on my feet, I'll be able to do that again.

I've recently completed one of my many manuscripts that I've been working on.  I've been going through the editing phase as of late for the past two months. I was originally going to wait until 2018 to publish it, but I might decide to release this project by the middle of 2017.  It's called "Seductra: Web of Desire".  I've already created the cover for it, and am continuing with the editing.  If I decide to release it this coming new year, I'll probably publish it in June to coincide with the publishing anniversary of Demure Nights (CreateSpace, 2015), as the books are similar in subject matter (erotica/street lit). 

I'm hoping for a better 2017.  I'm putting as much mental energy for this positive transition as possible; 2 1/2 years of suffering is enough.  I should have trusted my instincts that told me not to return to New York; there was a reason why I left in the first place. On to greener pastures, and better people who will actually support you, and not just talk a bunch of shit, and only press the "like" button, and call it a day.

Paz, y keep the fist raised!!!!

Nothing.......

Honestly....I have NOTHING to report.

Really. Seriously.  Truthfully.

There is absolutely nothing for me to report to you guys.  Everything is at a stand still.  No sales to report...no job prospects...no anniversaries coming up...nada.  I don't even know when the hell that episode of my interview is going to air; I still haven't been contacted back by the show's producer who interviewed me.  Considering that the show airs every Sunday, there are only two more Sundays left in the month.  Not very inspiring that my episode is going to air this month.

Nothing on the job front, either.  Considering that gamble that I took back in August, basically taking a one-way trip out of state for a job interview, you would've thought that something might have resulted from that.  Didn't get that particular job, nor anything else much after that.  Oh, I've applied to a good number of jobs out there, but nothing really resulted from it.  I got like....one call back for a position, and nothing else since.  Looks like my relocation plans are on hold, as well...

Trying to finish writing my manuscripts that are WIP, but I'm not necessarily motivated to finish them.  Wtf is the point?!  Finish writing them...publish them...and then have them languish on cyber bookshelves for the rest of their existence...?  Nuccas can come out of pocket for some stupid shit like the latest smartphone (that they don't need), a video game/gaming system, shoes, handbag, and other crap they don't need, that's EXPENSIVE as all hell mind you....but y'all can't invest in my mf book that costs between $10-$15....?  What's the sense in publishing them, then?!?!  I don't want to hear your bs rhetoric about supporting me, and then all you do is press the mf 'like' button on social media, and call it a day.  If you're truly a fan of my work, and support me, BUY my books!  And don't just buy one title....buy at least three, or four of them; THEN you can call yourself my biggest fan.

Yes....I'm ranting.  This is frustrating.  I've been dealing with this struggle for over two years, trying to be a fulltime author.  It's sickening when you're not supported, and people make excuses.  Or, when people do give you support, it's actually quite minimal, and they make it seem like they did you such a big favor.  I would understand if I was a crappy writer with no talent; I shouldn't even bee in the game.  BUT....I'm talented, and have skills.  I know how to market and promote myself, and my works.  I've been doing that for most of my life, specifically through my activism.

Maybe things will start to look up by the end of the year.  Who knows....

Afro-Latinas In Entrepreneurship event 2016

Representing for mi hermana Janel Martinez from Ain't I Latina.com!!!  In coordination with PUNTO Space, they will be holding their panel discussion event Afro-Latinas In Entrepreneurship.  Mark your calendars, and please come through.  For more information, check out Aint' I Latina.com, or PUNTO Space's website.

Afro-Latinas In Entrepreneurship
September 22, 2016
PUNTO Space
325 W. 38th Street,
New York, NY
6:30pm

BE THERE!!!!!!

Afrolatino Festival NYC 2016

Won't be a part of it this year as a vendor.  I don't have the funds to participate.

Afrolatino Festival NYC
July 8-10, 2016
Brooklyn, NY
www.afrolatinofestnyc.com

Author Book Trailer [UPDATED]

Greetings all!

I have recently updated the video book trailer promoting all of my book titles.  It includes the front cover of my latest release "Drum Speaking" (CreateSpace, 2016).  You can view the video here:

Hope that you enjoy the show.  All of my books are available in paperback format, and are available through online retailers such as Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, and Books-A-Million.  They are also available in eBook format through carriers such as Kindle, Nook, Kobo, iTunes, Page Foundry, Scribd, and 24Symbols.

Please help to spread the word, and continue to financially support me!  :-)

Keep the fist raised!!!!