Originally, I am from Kenya but currently I reside in the United Kingdom.
Why do you write?
It allows me to share my knowledge and help those who are coming after me be better off than I was. In terms of writing fiction, I just have a story that must come out.
What do you write about?
Everything and everything. Fiction wise I write about time travel.
Do you have a specific writing style?
Not so much. No.
What are obstacles that come in the way of writing?
Research as I want to get everything correct as in this day and age everything is fact checked.
What’s the most memorable thing asked/said by a reader about your work?
Thank you!
How long have you been writing?
Fiction – since I was 18 and non-fiction since this year.
When did you first realize you wanted to become a writer?
When I read DJ Machale and Connie Willlis.
What is your work schedule like when you are writing?
I start and can’t stop until I can’t then take a few days break to refresh then get back at it.
What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
I listen to music to get a feel of how I want a chapter to turn out.
How long does it take to write a book?
A few months.
Do you have suggestions on how to become a better writer?
Write the worst book you can. That being done the fear of being a bad writer goes away as you can go up from there.
What challenges do you come across when writing/creating your story?
Getting my characters to stay on script.
What do you think makes a good story?
Good characters that are relatable. And non-fiction wise good flow.
What does your family think of your writing?
They love it.
Do you see writing as a career?
No, I do not. I can’t disclose what I do for work though.
Do you have anything specific you’d like to tell the readers?
Ricky Prestige Leverett Jr is an 4x self-published author, professional Metaphysical Motivational Speaker, ordained minister of metaphysics and meditation instructor.
He has spoken on a variety of topics for audiences both big and small. Ranging from corporations to small cultural events. Ricky has lead meditation classes for events and schools. He specializes in mind science, black history, motivation, metaphysics and psychology. He studied metaphysics under Dr. Paul Leon Master at the University of Metaphysics. Ricky has been teaching, speaking and studying mind science for over ten years.
Describe yourself in five words. Prestigious, Spiritual, Witty, Intelligent, Purpose-driven
What fact about yourself would really surprise people? When I was a baby, I fractured my skull in a car accident. They thought I was not going to make it, or my brain would not develop correctly.
How do you work through self-doubts and fear?
I just always remind myself that most fear comes from incorrect thinking. I use my fear as an indication that I have work to do in that area of my life. I realized that self-doubt would always be there and happens to everyone. I understood some push through doubt and others allow it to stop them.
When I manifest goals in my life. I love to see things I have created come to life.
Why do you write?
I write because it gives me a chance to help others through spreading knowledge that helped me. I focus on self-help and mind science. I try to make complex topics more relatable. It is incredible that our mind can produce words that can change people’s whole perspective on life.
Yes, I started writing in elementary school. I would author short stories and I realized I was good at it. I remember winning the classroom spelling bee and being able to speak at graduation. Over time I began to lose my passion after I could not write children stories any longer. I began writing again as an adult on social media and then it all came back to me.
What motivates you to write?
Just the idea that these words can take myself and others to another level in their lives.
What writing are you most proud of?
I am proudest of my first book Mind Alignment: Wake Up Your Stolen Greatness Through Mind Power. It was released May 2020 on my birthday. In the middle of the pandemic my first published work was born.
What are you most proud of in your personal life?
I am proud that I can wake up and see my family. I have a strong relationship with my family. It is amazing watching them all grow into adults.
What books did you love growing up?
I used to love Goosebumps. I loved books about historical people in my culture. As a child I used to love reading about 2pac and his life. It was relatable to me even as a child.
What do you hope your obituary will say about you?
Changed people’s lives and lived his purpose. I am revered for my contributions to the community. By bringing education and healing to the community. I want to be the person that says the right thing one time to a person, and they use it to help themselves. I hope they speak highly of me and my life choices.
Location and life experiences can really influence writing, tell us where you grew up and where you now live?
I grew up in Augusta, Ga and still live here as an adult. I aspire to travel to all kinds of historical and spiritual sites across the world.
How did you develop your writing?
Just keep doing it. I am still mastering my style.
What is hardest – getting published, writing, or marketing?
I would say in this age of technology, all of them have been made easier to do. I took the self-help publishing route. Which I suggest is the best way to go. Writing can be tiring and sometimes feel unmotivated. I struggled with procrastination but once I started it flowed. The marketing may have been the hardest if an audience is not already established. Social media really helps me a lot. All of these are skills that I must be willing to educate myself.
What marketing works for you?
Social media
Do you find it hard to share your work?
I love to share content
Is your family supportive? Do your friends support you?
I would say they do support me. They might not always understand but they try.
What else do you do, other than write?
I am a meditation instructor, motivational speaker, and social media influencer
What other jobs have you had in your life?
Customer service, Auditor,
If you could study any subject at university, what would you pick?
I would study consciousness
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Near light blue water where the sun rises over the ocean
Tell us about your family.
I have a fiancé, and we have 3 children. I have soul tribes. My immediate family I see them every day.
How do you write – laptop, pen, paper, in bed, at a desk?
I write on my phone when I get innovative ideas. I use laptops or sometimes I go old school with pen and paper
How much sleep do you need to be your best?
5 hours
Is there anyone you would like to acknowledge and thank for their support?
I would like to thank Katrenia Turner for always believing in me even after I have fallen short in the past. Also thank everyone that follows me on social media the motivate me to keep going
Every writer has their own idea of what a successful career in writing is, what does success in writing look like to you?
I want to be known as an expert in mind science. Getting paid residually for speaking engagements while still having a divine purpose
It is vital to get exposure and target the right readers for your writing, tell us about your marketing campaign?
I typically target people that are into spirituality and metaphysics. Typically, around the ages of 26-38. I love my African American culture, so I love writing to my people.
Tell us about your new book. Why did you write it?
My newest book is Mind Alignment 2.0: Paradigm Shift of the Black Mind. I authored this book for my people to get a deeper understanding of the power of their own minds. This is part 2 of my first book
If you could have a dinner party and invite anyone dead or alive, who would you ask?
Nipsey Hussle
When you are not writing, how do you like to relax?
I like to be in nature by the water meditating
What do you hope people will take away from your writing? How will your words make them feel?
That they realize I am just the messenger who is here to remind them of their innate power. My goal is to teach a generation the power of their own minds.
Born to a poor teenage mother in rural Jamaica, Lorna experienced poverty, abandonment, and abuse. She boarded a plane to Canada on her own as a teenager with no guarantee of a visa, eventually gaining citizenship. Lorna defied the odds, overcoming poverty to graduate from university with an honors degree in social work while becoming the mother of two young children.
Her passion for learning and helping people transform their lives has led her to work in 5 different countries, where she’s taught and inspired thousands globally. Her compelling story of confronting the truth of her paternity was featured in an anthology published in 2018. Lorna’s latest work is her first autobiography account that details her early upbringing, life lessons learned through major life setbacks, and the exhilaration experienced in defying the odds.
The scores are: Internal Layout: 10/10 Plot Development: 10/10 Key Takeaway Message: 10/10 Overall score: 30/30 If you have books with issues that matter to the society and you want me to review them, check out https://internationalbookpromotion.com/books-that-matter/ #booktuber
“The Ghetto VC“ is a step-by-step guide on building an abundance mindset, and investing like a venture capitalist. Author, Garry Johnson III, is an award-winning entrepreneur, adjunct professor, angel investor, and startup advisor. He supports a global community of underrepresented founders through his nonprofit, and is building pathways to wealth for all through his company, Bison Venture Partners. To date, Garry has mentored hundreds of entrepreneurs, raised capital from 100+ investors, and built an investment portfolio of more than a dozen private companies. Through “The Ghetto VC,” Garry outlines his thought process & investment strategy, while sharing accessible resources to help everyday people build wealth for themselves.
Why should you pre-order today?
Limited copies will be made available at the current price point. Publication of this eBook is scheduled for December 6th, 2022.
Supporters who pre-order gain immediate access to schedule a FREE 15-minute Q&A with the author, and benefit from exclusive discounts on merchandise available from Black Unicorns.
Additional tiers include access to General Membership in our investor community on The Herd App, as well as an opportunity for a 1:1 Deep Dive with the author.
Pre-orders will also be accompanied with a downloadable version of “The Ghetto VC” audiobook at no additional cost.
Gary Tubbs is the author of Mindful Messages for Children (2016) and A Boy Like Me (2020). Taming the Dragon: My Memoir of Coming Out, Addiction, and Awakening is his first published work. A former Seattle school principal, Gary is blissfully retired and residing in Bali, Indonesia.
Where are you from?
I was born in conservative, rural eastern Washington State but lived in Seattle for 25 years as a school administrator before retiring and living as an expat in beautiful Bali, Indonesia
Why do you write?
I write to share my story as I believe it can benefit others. I want to contribute to the healing of those who struggle with relationships, identity, and self-acceptance.
What do you write about?
I write about my life and the lessons I have learned over seventy years or introspection and deep work. I write in a style that is authentic, raw, honest, and vulnerable.
What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
Others tell me I am brutally honest in my writing; courageous in sharing my imperfections and mistakes as I invite others to join me along my path and my return to authenticity.
What are obstacles that come in the way of writing?
My greatest obstacle was a fear of not being good enough. I compared my writing to others. Once I shut down those negative voices, I relaxed into my own voice and found the confidence to persevere.
What’s the most memorable thing asked/said by a reader about your work?
The following two reviews resonate deeply within me. Both are from people I don’t even know, making them even more poignant for some reason:
“Pages into this raw and honest book I wondered if I would be able to read it. And yet, little Gary already had me at the heart strings knowing all he wanted was his father’s love and approval. Turn after turn of page the honesty drew me further in. Before I knew it, I couldn’t put it down. I had to know what happened next, all the while hoping for Gary to find the love he so desired. I followed Gary through the highs and the lows of his heterosexual marriage, his encounters with men as he explored who he was and who he felt he was supposed to be. My mind and heart battled as I felt myself question my own beliefs, Christian upbringing, and a desire for all to have the love they deserve. More importantly I wanted Gary to love himself. Grab a coffee, curl up with a blanket and read this book. I finished it in three days, it was that well written, honest, real and raw.”
“Regardless of what you struggle with in life, Tubbs has tapped into the common blindness we all face with our personal issues. Through his journey, we discover that we all have the ability to overcome ourselves and find peace. You may not identify with the circumstances of his life and identity, but you will relate to his struggle, which is universal. The book is a well-written catharsis that keeps the reader hooked and Tubbs is masterful at taking you by the hand to look back on ghosts of his past. Recommend!”
How long have you been writing?
I engaged in grant writing and other technical writing for many years as a school administrator. But narrative writing is new to me. In an attempt to build skill and confidence, I became part of The Narrative Project (thenarrativeproject.net) for a year. I then self-published a collection of short stories based on childhood memories: A Boy Like Me, 2020. Taming the Dragon, 2022is my first book with a publisher.
When did you first realize you wanted to become a writer?
Three years ago, riding on the back of my husband’s motorbike, I had a delightfully jolting thought that resonated deeply: “Write stories based on childhood memories to give to Mom for her 94th birthday.” A year later, A Boy Like Me, was born with the very first copy placed in the hands of my beloved mother on her birthday. Mom died one year later.
What do you think makes a good story?
For me a good story moves along at a pace and keeps my attention. I want there to be depth, humor, and enough stimulation to keep me engaged so that I’m not only feeling entertained but also relating to the book in a personal way.
Do you see writing as a career?
I see writing as a JOY and passion. I write when I’m compelled to write or when I feel a thought, an idea, or a story bubbling up inside me that needs to be written down and saved, perhaps shared—maybe with one person, maybe a group, or to a wider audience. Should that writing evolve into a book, great! But I do not feel I am a writer. I am a vessel, willing to let a thought, story, or book be written through me.
Do you have anything specific you’d like to tell the readers?
Thank you for taking the journey with me from childhood to my golden years. May you be blessed with feeling all the feels this memoir might conjure up. May your heart swell with compassion for yourself and people you love, especially those suffering from identity issues, addiction, or a lack of acceptance from societal norms. Together we awaken!
O’Cyrus is an author, poet, and writer. O’Cyrus published his first book titled, “Sacred” (poetry) on October 31, 2022. O’Cyrus has six books set to release throughout year 2023 with one graphic novel set to release in the second quarter of 2024. For more information about O’Cyrus, please visit his website at https://www.ocyrusink.com
Where are you from?
Originally born in Boston, Massachusetts. As a child my siblings and I moved around several times due to my father serving in the Military. We call it, “Military Brat” which just means growing up in a Military household. With that said, I can’t claim any place in particular, however, my wife, Melissa, would swear I am from Georgia since I spent many years there.
Why do you write?
I want to touch the souls of readers in a world where social media has redirected the eyes off a book and onto their cellphones and computer screens. I want to touch those with my stories and change their perspective on life and fulfilment. My poetry is aimed to have me reach my hand in your bodies, grip a hold of your soul, and bring that soul into my world to allow everyone to hear the stories of many who want to help make life happier. I write stories that I would want to read and hope that others would lose themselves in like watching a movie in the movie theater. I write because I love the art and creativity of storytelling.
What do you write about?
What an awesome question! I’d like to first start with the genres I write which is poetry, children’s books, graphic novels, and young adult suspense/thrillers. I’ve also written a romance book, but I wouldn’t say that’s my go to like the other genres I’ve mentioned. As for what I write about, it depends on the genre. Poetry, I write from the perspective of those who I have encountered throughout my years who I feel have stories worth sharing to the world. Children’s books I like to write adventure stories with a hint of suspense. I also tend to write my stories as though everything is happening in real time. For example, if you go out with your family to the amusement park I would write the adventure in a way that happens from start to finish like watching a movie. My graphic novels verge more on adventures as well with many action sequences. My young adult suspense/thriller stories verge more on psychological thrillers like mystery books.
Do you have a specific writing style?
I’ve been told my writing style is considered, “pantser.” For those who may be unaware what that means, it simply means the writer writes without much to prepare for outside of a plot. For example, let’s say I want to write about a coconut that is trying to locate it’s family because that coconut fell from a coconut tree near the ocean and was washed, but washed up on another island. Now I’d take that coconut, and turn that coconut into a character, let’s say the coconut is a young 7-year-old boy who was in the coconut tree sleeping with a coconut that were siblings. That night they were sleeping, and a group of human teenagers went to that tree, shook it until a coconut fell, but due to the ocean’s current the teenagers ran away meanwhile the coconut stayed in the sand and thus washed away. Now the plot is for the character, to get back home. I don’t think of other characters, nor gender, names, or much of anything as I will simply go where the story takes me.
What are obstacles that come in the way of writing?
Well, I work full time in the Military so, that along with parenting comes with its own challenges. For the most part, I try to do things between 3am-6am as many days out of the week.
What’s the most memorable thing asked/said by a reader about your work? “Wow! I didn’t expect that to happen at all!”
How long have you been writing?
I’ve been writing since childhood. Maybe 5 or 6 years old, however it was off and on, but the idea to really hone in on my writing continued to present itself to me consistently since childhood.
When did you first realize you wanted to become a writer?
This became a reality in late 2021 when I was home on parental leave and was reading stories to my children and thought, “you know, I would love to read my own books to my children,” so I told my wife literally the next day, “babes, I’m going to write a children’s book.” She was caught off guard but supported me. About 2 weeks later I wrote the book, then hired an illustrator which was my sister who is a professional illustrator, then hired an editor and thus the bug to write stories has been ever growing since.
What is your work schedule like when you are writing?
3am-6am is the time where I will help keep my home maintained since my wife does a great deal of maintenance with our home while I am at work. I will also take about 30 minutes to read a chapter of a book. Recently I’ve been reading Manga’s. Generally, 4am-6am is writing time which could include research of areas I’d like to write about. Then from 6am-7am I will exercise. Afterwards I would get ready for work, write my wife a good morning text, and that’s my morning cycle.
What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
Hmmmm…I’d say I have to use a specific type of keyboard to type my stories. The type of keyboard that each key on it sticks out like a typewriter where I can physically feel each key press into the keyboard. None of that flat keyboard mess where the button is so flat I forget where the keys are and ESPECIALLY not using a keyboard that have different keys in different areas of the keyboard. That gives me anxiety.
How long does it take to write a book?
Depends on the genre. Children’s books could range from one day to two weeks depending on if the book is a board book for ages 0-3 where the page count is generally ten pages or if it’s a picture book for children ages 2-8 where the page count is roughly 24-32 pages. Now if we’re talking poetry books, I’d say 3 months maybe even 4 months. Graphic novels can take me 4-6 months to write just due to me also sketching my scenes out before hiring an illustrator.
Do you have suggestions on how to become a better writer?
Write, write, write! I also highly recommend reading books specifically under the genre you as the writer have an interest in. I used to hear, “to become a better writer, it is important to read all the time,” but that’s not necessarily true in my experience. I know that I love images in my stories much like going to a restaurant and the menu has images of the food they have. Take that same logic, go to a restaurant, and go to order from a menu that doesn’t have any images, just words. I lose my mind because I feel I need pictures to help shape my story. I say all of this because yes, it is important to read as much as possible, but knowing what to read will excel how much more you read because you have an interest in it. So, in short, write and read daily.
What challenges do you come across when writing/creating your story? Sometimes I’ve stumbled on how to open the story but HANDS DOWN the most challenging part of creating a story for me is the ending. Writing the ending. As I mentioned earlier, I am considered a “pantser,” which means I don’t know what the ending of my own story is until it happens. Because things are so situationally based with my writing style, I am often writing several endings until my wife picks out the best one that makes since for the story.
What do you think makes a good story?
Plot easily and the outcome of the plot. I don’t think having action in a story just to have action in it has any value unless the action occurring is specific to the situation of the character. Fighting just to fight doesn’t make sense to me. Fighting because the character was placed in a situation that led to that fight to me has far more value. A good story is one that flows from beginning, middle, and end. It’s very difficult to do even as an author myself, but if you believe in your stories than others will also.
What does your family think of your writing?
They love that I am living through my gift as a writer and progressing with that. My wife, Melissa, has been instrumental in supporting me. She spent many mornings sleeping by herself because I woke up so early to write. She means everything to me. My son also loves that I am a writer and I love when he comes downstairs and says, “Papa, are you working on your story?” My parents and siblings are overjoyed with excitement for me as well.
Do you see writing as a career?
Oh yes! Without question! This is what I want to do for the rest of my life is tell stories whether in books, movies, or even in theatre.
Do you have anything specific you’d like to tell the readers?
Thank you everyone for supporting me and for those who are new to my content. I am grateful for your time, and I hope you that we grow together, and my audience expands. I want to touch the souls of the world with my storytelling. I don’t have a social media account, but I do have a website as for those who want to stay connected with me. www.ocyrusink.com
When did you first consider yourself a writer?
Officially, I called myself a writer in November 2021.
My name is Alex and I am an Australasian author based in Queensland Australia. I am the author of, A Succession of Swords, book one in The Chronicles of Serenity series. I come from a construction background, and was the founder of a large tiling company, before stepping back to focus on my passions. I am a huge family person, who is content to sit at home and argue with my children, over who is the strongest avenger. (Obviously Hulk!)
What is A Succession of Swords about?
A Succession of Swords is book one in The Chronicles of Serenity. It is an adult dark fantasy series that takes place in a world filled with orcs, elves and demonspawn, and the main characters are the gods and rulers of this world. In Serenity, The Sentinels of the Gods rule for a thousand years, before passing the rule down to their children. The story begins on the day the new Sentinels are to be named. Characters are not what they seem, and betrayal is almost certain.
What makes the world of Serenity unique?
I have strived to establish a world and characters that feel real. Although they are the gods, I wanted to dive deep into their human characteristics. The feelings and motivations that drive them, the positive and negative traits that hold them back, or push them to succeed. Every character faces their own unique trials, and handles the events in their own way. (Some better than others)
What are your inspirations?
I have always been a huge fan of fantasy, and love the escape element to the genre. (A world where the impossible is possible) I also find inspiration in people, people are very interesting creatures. Why does someone do what they do? Why does someone want what they want? I find these questions very interesting, and the truth is everybody is different, which makes the subject even more intriguing.
Do you have any favourite characters?
Definitely! Three of the characters are actually based on older versions of my children, however I spend a lot of time creating my characters and I am fond of all of them. (Even the naughty ones)
What is next for you as an author?
BOOK 2! I am very happy to announce that I have started working on the early chapters of book two. I will keep everyone up to date on my progress, through my website www.adbollen.com and my social media accounts.
Kerron Tomlinson (Morgan) grew up in Jamaica West Indies. Her parents were ministers and were assigned to many parishes to serve. She remembers her early life as one that saw the family moving house at least eight times as her parents took on new assignments.
Kerron read almost incessantly, and wrote short stories from the time she was in primary (elemantary) school.
When she went on to college,she was encouraged by her Literature teacher, Mrs Neil, to consider writing as a career. However, with the limitations of the time, she wrote , because she had to satisfy the urge to write. She wrote a short play ” Run Bredda Rat,” for the drama group from Manning’s School in the 1980s. The drama group entered the Jamaica Cultural Development Competition and won a silver medal.
In the early 2000s she was delighted to see a Literary Arts supplement of The Jamaica Observer, that published short stories, essays and poems. This gave her the opprtunity of having her stories published.
She also entered the short story competition of the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission competition in 2006, and won an award.
Kerron is now working on the another novel in the “It’s Own Time,” series.
Kerron has one child, Verrden Morgan, and five siblings.
Where are you from?
I am from the island of Jamaica, West Indies
Why do you write?
Writing is innate to me. I am most excited when I’m creating a whole new world from words.
What do you write about?
Stories about people, how we relate to each other… how we navigate this journey called life, are fulfilling to write. I also write about the effect of the unseen world, on the ‘seen’ world the forces that battle against good and evil, in our lives.
Do you have a specific writing style?
My style of writing is primarily narrative and descriptive.
What are obstacles that come in the way of writing?
Sometimes, no matter how you write and refine your draft, your story seems stuck. It’s as if there is another story that is somewhere in the subconscious that needs to be told. So, my greatest obstacle can be writing an outline or a pitch. On the other hand, it can be a great tool too.
What’s the most memorable thing asked/said by a reader about your work?
“I didn’t want the story to end.” ‘When is the next book?” ‘Are you going to write more about character so and so?”
Howlong have you been writing?
I have been writing since I was about ten years old, and have been an avid reader from the age of six.
When did you first realize you wanted to become a writer?
I always knew I was a writer. I was always writing, and doing music.
What is your work schedule like when you are writing?
I would wake at about 4:00 a.m. and do at least an hour of writing. Make breakfast for the family before 5:30. Do a high-intensity run on the treadmill from 5:30-6:00.
Get ready to go teach high school music and be out of the house by 7:30 So that type of scheduling took much organization during the weekends. Now, my son goes off to school…I’m on leave because of an illness that led to paraplegia. My focus is on being in a good place mentally, then on the writing process.
What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
Not following the draft/outline;, letting the story develop organically.
How long does it take to write a book?
For me writing a book takes sometimes up to a year, sometimes a few months.
Do you have suggestions on how to become a better writer?
Yes. Read, read, and then read some more. Studying the classics in college under the guidance of a great literature instructor really helped me.
What challenges do you come across when writing/creating your story?
There’s usually a struggle about whom the characters will become, and what crisis they have to face. How do I make the characters’ issues resonate with the reader?
What do you think makes a good story?
Usually, stories in which good, and love triumph over greed, selfishness, meanness…you know, that sort of thing. Also, stories with strong positive family values.
What does your family think of your writing?
They’ve been fans from day one. My family is filled with creatives. They all read voraciously.
Doyou see writing as a career?
At this point- yes. Before technology changed the world, living on my tiny island meant my access to international agents, publishing houses etc. was a long struggle it didn’t seem I was about to win. So I still wrote and had stories published in a national newspaper the Jamaica Observer Arts Section. I also entered Arts competitions and did well. To make a career from creative writing under thosecircumstances, however, seemed just a dream
Do you have anything specific you’d like to tell the readers?
A trained linguist and Certified Project Manager, Dot IkwerreGirl Acheru is an embodiment of resilience. Her inner strength gives her the impetus to go out and help other women who had walked the path she had threaded and conquered. As a Humanitarian, she sees to the needs of the less privileged and provides help to the broken to the best of her ability. Her writing skill has birthed countless didactic posts on Social Media as well as this open-hearted narrative. Dot, who is a founder of a supportive club for B.A.M.E women in London, is a mother of two adorable kids.
Author Dot IkwerreGirl Acheru The Impacts of Domestic Violence
About the Author: A trained linguist and Certified Project Manager, Dot IkwerreGirl Acheru is an embodiment of resilience. Her inner strength gives her the impetus to go out and help other women who had walked the path she had threaded and conquered. As a Humanitarian, she sees to the needs of the less privileged and provides help to the broken to the best of her ability. Her writing skill has birthed countless didactic posts on Social Media as well as this open-hearted narrative. Dot, who is a founder of a supportive club for B.A.M.E women in London, is a mother of two adorable kids.
Intelligent, Energetic, Creative, resourceful, and Pleasant
What fact about yourself would really surprise people?
I am really shy 🙂
How do you work through self-doubts and fear?
I focus on my strengths; other times, I give into my fears and doubts because it is good to be vulnerable and feel things as I experience them.What scares you the most? Aging. I fear the inevitable old age, as we cannot predict how we will age. I fear that age when I am vulnerable and totally dependent on others for my care and basic needs.
What makes you happiest?
My Children. Seeing how far they have come and blossomed makes it all worth it.
Why do you write?
I write to express myself and give my readers hope and knowledge. I like to proffer solutions. I hope that my story can be someone’s survival guide.
Have you always enjoyed writing?
Yes, I’ve always enjoyed writing articles and funny stories. It comes naturally to me, What motivates you to write? I get challenged by situations I find myself and even situations of others. The urge to shine a light for others.
What writing are you most proud of?
Silent Watchers is my first indie published book. What are you most proud of in your personal life? I am proud of myself for never quitting or giving up, regardless of what life may have thrown at me.
What books did you love growing up?
To Sir with Love by E. R. Braithwaite, adventure novels by James Hadley Chase, I wasn’t a great reader, though.
What do you hope your obituary will say about you?
That I was a fantastic person and an inspiration to many, a hope for the hopeless, and a game changer with a dash of crazy humour.
Location and life experiences can really influence writing; tell us where you grew up and where you now live.
I grew up in Nigeria and later relocated and naturalised in the U.K. Nearly two decades ago.
How did you develop your writing?
I have a creative mind, which makes writing easy for me. It all starts with an idea, and then I begin to expand on it.
What is hardest – getting published, writing or marketing?
Marketing! Most definitely marketing. You can have an amazing work, but people must see and read it. You’ll have to have good enough reviews to validate your work. So definitely marketing.
What marketing works for you?
Social media is fantastic. The good thing is that I have a sizeable following, which facilitates getting the word out there. However, I have had to work out of my circle with other social media influencers and marketers to expand my reach.
Do you find it hard to share your work?
Not really. Sharing isn’t difficult; getting people to respond to the content. Now that’s the tricky bit.
Is your family supportive? Do your friends support you?
My children are very proud of me; my daughter (6 years old, by the way) kept on my case, reminding me to keep writing. My mother has been a pillar! I also have very supportive friends and colleagues; I feel blessed for that too.
What else do you do, other than write?
I’m a project manager, and I also run Community Clubs that support women who have experienced Domestic violence and ongoing financial difficulties. Every year for the past four years, I have also carried out outreach programs to single mothers and widows in Nigeria, providing food, clothing, and money for business start-ups.
What other jobs have you had in your life?
Hmmm… I’ve been around the block, trying to find my passion, and I’m still on that journey. So, I’ve worked as a bi-lingual translator, Documents controller in the Oil and Gas industry, and Project manager for UK Public Sector, and believe it out not; I have also worked as a Catering assistant serving up meals and a security officer/ bouncer 🙂
If you could study any subject at university, what would you pick?
I’ve done quite a lot of studying in my life, and I am not sure I want anymore, But criminology and profiling have always interested me. I’m also looking to bag a certification as a life coach soon.
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
I would love to live on a private island in Fiji, drinking milk out of coconut and eating roasted fish and salad every day while listening to “Don’t worry be happy” by Bob Marley and getting a massage three times a week.
Tell us about your family?
It’s just myself and my two children, a son, and a daughter; they are my battery source; they keep me going, and I feel validated every time I look at them.
I come from a nuclear family of 6. My dad, my mum, two brothers and a sister. I am the youngest of four. Sadly, my dad passed last year. I wish he was here to witness my first book. I know he would have been proud.
How do you write – lap top, pen, paper, in bed, at a desk?
It’s a mix, really. Sometimes I make voice notes; I may be in the kitchen and get thoughts, so I scribble on a piece of paper or tissue, whatever is available to collate my thoughts. I type primarily at night, when the house is quiet. 80% of the time I’m on my sofa, laptop on my lap typing away. And then I wonder why I have back pains.. hahaha
How much sleep do you need to be your best?
At least 4hours, but I’d be lying to say I ever get that much…lol
Is there anyone you’d like to acknowledge and thank for their support?
I want to recognize my friends Yvonne Egbuna; I’ve known her since 1996, she was help when I needed to get out of a dire situation, and she has never stopped checking up on me. Annet Mugaga I met in Uni while studying for an M.A. in management at the Middlesex Uni London. And the list could not be complete without mentioning Joan Oruwari, Andrea Stewart, Ufuoma Aaron, and many more, too numerous to mention for constantly checking up on me and pushing me to be the best I could be.
Every writer has their own idea of what a successful career in writing is, what does success in writing look like to you?
Success for me is good sales but, most importantly, positive feedback from readers. I want to get that feeling that my work changed lives.
It is vital to get exposure and target the right readers for your writing, tell us about your marketing campaign?
I have employed two marketing companies to manage my campaign as I feel a bit of professionality would go a long way. I have a vast social media following that helps. I also work alongside individual social media influencers and promoters. Just about anything to create a buzz, really.
Tell us about your new book? Why did you write it?
I wrote the book Silent Watchers as a solution for those going through domestic violence. Using my situation as an example, my hope is that it becomes a wake-up call for many. This book highlights the impact of Children Witnessing Domestic Violence. Parents often, especially mothers, will stay in a toxic relationship because of their children. However, my book shows how detrimental and damaging that choice is to a child. Also, many people don’t know they are in an abusive relationship because of the absence of physical violence; this book breaks down domestic abuse and highlights the non-violent aspects of it that are usually overlooked. A definite must-read. 🙂
If you could have a dinner party and invite anyone dead or alive, who would you ask?
Whitney Houston, there’s just something about her voice that gives me goosebumps. And, of course, she’d have to sing to me…lol. Also my great grand father, the King Amakwe, he has something I need…lol
When you are not writing, how do you like to relax?
Listen to music, make creative funny skits, and have family time with my kids. We like to travel, try out new things, and see the world.
What do you hope people will take away from your writing? How will your words make them feel?
The words in my books are hard-hitting… lot’s of emotions, anger, tears, pain, and then hope. I hope my book is an eye-opener to my readers and hopefully a wake-up call. Also, with determination, they can survive anything.
Roy T Martin’s journey into the literary world started in the third grade where he’d compete against his brother to see who could create better storlines. From there he would continue to conjure up countless stories from historical fiction to romances. It wasn’t until his junior year in high school he decided to pick up poetry where he could better process and express his person feelings and thoughts. After publishing some of his works through Wattpad and Instagram he would go on to publish his first official piece of literature “Poetic Signature”. Currently he’s in the process of writing his first ever light novel. Get in touch if you’ve got any comments, questions, suggestions, or just want to say hello. He would be more than happy to hear from you.
Describe yourself in five words.
I’d have to say resilient, optimistic, expressive, adventurous, and talented.
What fact about yourself would really surprise people?
Mainly that I am a man of many faces. Different people know me for completely different ways of being, but oddly enough they’re all me. I’m a bit of a walking contradiction, but in a good way.
How do you work through self-doubt and fear?
Honestly, I get so anxious that I force myself to just get whatever is scaring me over with. I’m big on embracing my fear while also facing it head on.
What scares you the most?
I feel that the answer to this question changes a lot throughout life for most people but for me personally, it’s that I disappoint myself. At the end of the day I hold myself to a high standard because when we go to whatever is after this life, I just want to know I lived it “correctly”.
What makes you happiest?
As corny as it may be…love.
Why do you write?
I actually have several reasons for why I write. I do this to express my inner thoughts, to give readers another point of view or perspective that may change how they see their reality, and lastly because this is my dream.
Have you always enjoyed writing?
Oddly enough, no. As a kid I loved making stories but actually writing them felt too tedious. Although it was different for me when I got into poetry. I started in either my sophomore or junior year of highschool in hopes that it would impress a girl I liked. Ultimately it worked, but when things went south the poetry kept me together.
What motivates you to write?
Usually when I’m going through a rough patch the poems just flow for me.
What writing are you most proud of?
Pretty much all the stories and poems of my youth. I love to look back and see how far I’ve come creatively.
What are you most proud of in your personal life?
I’m most proud of the fact that I in live my truth, I’m just unapologetically me.
What books did you love growing up?
Going all the way back to grade school I loved anything that taught me about animals and different time periods. I was also a big fan of biology and Greek mythology.
Location and life experiences can really influence writing, tell us where you grew up and where you now live?
I come from Reading, Pennsylvania. Pretty much I grew up around a bunch of tallent, but also a major shortage of hope. It pushed me to want more from life and to believe in myself despite the odds. As for where I live now, I reside in Arizona. Don’t get me wrong, I still love Reading but the slower pace out here suits me just fine.
How did you develop your writing?
I just stared young and always prioritized that I felt my emotions. I was never one to numb myself and that helped to get the most out of my imagination.
Do you find it hard to share your work?
Even now I’m still a little shy about sharing my poems, but that’s changing rather quickly.
Is your family supportive? Do your friends support you?
Of course, my family is my rock when it comes to my career. As for friends, a handful of my old classmates still show love when it comes to my writing, but I’ve found more support amongst the local groups in my area. They gave me everything from words of experience to supplies and connections. One author even helped me to get my first book signing opportunity that’s coming up in December.
What else do you do, other than write?
I like to practice martial arts and even though it’s been awhile, I used to play the saxophone.
How do you write – laptop, pen, paper, in bed, at a desk?
I like to draft out ideas with a paper and pencil, then finalize everything on either my chromebook or my phone. As for where, it’s really wherever inspiration strikes.
Every writer has their own idea of what a successful career in writing is, what does success in writing look like to you?
As long as I’ve made a positive impact in the lives of my readers and I can afford to live comfortably and support my loved ones, I’d say that’s all the success I need.
Tell us about your new book? Why did you write it?
I’m glad you asked about it. My latest book “Poetic Signature: The Deluxe Edition” is a more complete version of my first ever published work “Poetic Signature”. I was going through a rough time mentally and felt like I had to channel those feelings and then boom. I think the best part is that it brings together two separate stages in my life and shows how I’ve matured.
When you are not writing, how do you like to relax?
These days, when I’m not typing away I’m either playing basketball or binge watching shows like there’s no tomorrow.
What do you hope people will take away from your writing? How will your words make them feel?
From what I’ve been told, my works inspire self reflection. I’m hoping readers use that introspection to see life differently and that they strive to be their most happy and authentic selves.
Do you have links that you’d like to share for others to read?
You can find more of me at my website https://www.rtmpublishing.com/ and my latest book “Poetic Signature: The Deluxe Edition” is out now on Amazon too.
International Book Promotion 