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The Story is a Morality Lesson

Maury K Downs Author Interview

Almasi Ya Kifo follows two men looking to change their lives who wind up crossing paths thanks to the mythical fate diamond. What was your inspiration for the wild journey you take readers on in this novel?

The story is a morality lesson. The Almasi Ya Kifo diamonds possess an energy that heighten and intensify the demeanor and attributes of individuals. I wanted to show the effect this can have on human behavior, and the lessons learned. In essence, be careful what you wish for – you may get more than you thought!

Paulo and Joseph complement and contrast each other well in this novel, building tension for readers. What was your approach to writing the interactions between characters?

To highlight who people really are at their core and how greed can be infectiously consuming and controlling on human behavior.

Joseph is driven by avarice. He’s selfish and has a general disregard for others – unless he wants something from them.

Paulo is naïve, lacking sophistication – but an easy mark for anything that he believes will benefit him financially.

Joseph almost takes pleasure in telling Paulo to take the diamonds. It’s as if he knows what Paulo is going to experience.

Are you a believer in fate, or do you think that people make their own destinies based on the choices that they make?

It’s dynamic. We all have choices; free will that directs us along the path we’re going to take. However, it’s remembering that every choice has a consequence – whether the consequence ends up being a positive, or negative, outcome is the question.

Where does the story go in the next book, and where do you see it going in the future?

Book two in the Fate Diamond Series, Xentastic, tells the story of the next person to receive the diamonds. She doesn’t possess the same all-consuming qualities that the readers have experienced in Almasi Ya Kifo. Readers will see the polar opposite of someone who’s not consumed by greed.

Almasi Ya Kifo is book one of five novels that make up the Fate Diamond Series. As the series develops, we will see not only the negative effects, but how the diamonds can also effect positive changes.

Ultimately, readers will see how my first novel, The Way You See Me Now, connects with the Fate Diamond Series.

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The Almasi Ya Kifo diamonds, respected, esteemed and celebrated by many… feared, cursed and despised by others.
These mysterious gemstones possess an energy that can bring good fortune and protection from harm to those that possess them. Whereas for others, there is profound calamity and death. For this reason, the diamonds are known as ‘fate diamonds’ in different cultures. Myth or fact, magic or science? This can only be determined by the individual experiencing their intense affects. Nevertheless, the diamonds are considered priceless and are tirelessly sought after by many gem collectors – and greedy thieves.
Paulo Pineda is a popular and likable, but somewhat hesitant, young man incessantly seeking quick fortune. He’s been drifting around attempting to find his way in life; trying to find the means to move out of his parent’s place, and hoping for the courage to ask out the girl he really, really likes.
Joseph Ashe has more enemies than he has friends. He is not a popular, likable person, with a criminal record going way back. He recently came into possession of the mysterious Almasi Ya Kifo diamonds, having stolen them from his shady business partner’s jewelry store in Las Vegas.
Quite unexpectantly, Paulo’s and Joseph’s paths collide, with dramatic affect. Now in possession of the diamonds, Paulo’s life turns into a roller coaster adventure… both exhilarating and terrifying.

Almasi Ya Kifo

Maury K. Downs triumphantly returns to the literary scene with Almasi Ya Kifo, a riveting follow-up to his captivating debut, The Way You See Me Now. Joining him in the writing of this gripping suspense thriller is author Lorna Downs. The narrative intricately weaves crime, mystery, and a dash of supernatural suspense, creating a thrilling tapestry of a story.

Central to the novel is Paulo Pineda, a seemingly average man navigating the humdrum of life: nursing a crush on his boss, working at a video rental store, and residing with his parents. However, life takes an unexpected detour when a treasure trove of diamonds— the legendary Almasi Ya Kifo diamonds— lands in his possession. These aren’t just any diamonds; they carry an aura of mystique. Legend suggests they possess dual capabilities: granting their holder unparalleled good fortune and protection or heralding a cascade of calamities.

For Paulo, the path seems fraught with danger, especially with the diamonds’ previous owner, the notorious criminal Joseph Ashe, hot on his heels. Paulo, portrayed as an endearing underdog with an unyielding spirit, consistently finds himself teetering on the edge of peril. Yet, his resilience and sincerity make it impossible for readers not to champion his every move, from evading life-threatening situations to conquering personal insecurities.

The authors’ supporting characters, notably Paulo’s childhood confidant Tommy Grainger, are painted with equal depth and vibrancy. The dynamics between Ashe and Paulo stand out as they present contrasting facets of humanity.

The pacing is impeccably crafted. Readers are introduced to the ensemble cast, swiftly thrusting them into a whirlwind of high-stakes adventures. There are moments when the tension is palpable, akin to witnessing a vulnerable creature stray into a hazardous zone.

Almasi Ya Kifo is a heart-pounding crime thriller distinguished by its empathetic protagonist. With further installments on the horizon, one eagerly anticipates the ensuing chapters of this thrilling saga. Highly recommended for those seeking a story with depth, intrigue, and heart.

Pages: 80 | ASIN : B0C3G9NNQB

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