Blog Archives
The Roads We Take
Driving for Justice follows a successful lawyer who becomes a Laafia car driver. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The inspiration really came from observing the hectic pace and priorities of modern professional life. I was intrigued by the idea of someone with a high-stress, prestigious career making the unexpected choice to embrace a simpler, and more interpersonal job on the side. The act of driving, which is physically linear but can be emotionally and philosophically meandering, seemed like the perfect metaphor to explore John’s unexpected journey of self-discovery. It’s about the roads we take, the stops we make along the way, and the passengers—each carrying their unique stories—that join us during the ride.
John takes great pleasure in driving and meeting new people in his part-time job, learning their stories, and, in the process, learning more about himself. What are some things that you find interesting about the human condition that you think make for great fiction?
Human vulnerability and resilience strike me as profoundly compelling themes for fiction. In Driving for Justice, John’s encounters with various passengers highlight these aspects beautifully. Each person he meets represents different facets of life—hope, despair, ambition, and regret. I find the concept of strangers opening up in the confined space of a car fascinating. It’s a safe space where conversations can veer into personal territories more freely, revealing the raw and real layers of personality that we often hide from the outside world. This setting allows exploration of how our interactions shape us and the poignant truth that everyone has a story worth telling.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Several themes are central to Driving for Justice. First, the themes of redemption and self-discovery are crucial as we follow John’s journey from a life he no longer finds fulfilling to one where he rediscovers his passion and purpose. Second, the idea of empathy and connection emerges as a powerful theme. John’s day-to-day experiences emphasize that understanding and kindness can have far-reaching effects on people’s lives, including our own. Finally, the theme of justice—what it means and how it can be achieved outside traditional frameworks—is explored through John’s establishment of a pro-bono legal clinic, highlighting his evolution from a career-driven lawyer to a community-focused advocate. Each of these themes challenges the reader to think about the impact of their choices and the potential we all have to effect change in our environments.
In Driving for Justice, several key themes shaped the narrative and enriched the story’s depth and complexity. These themes not only drive the plot but also invite readers to engage with broader social and personal issues:
- Redemption and Transformation: Central to the novel is the protagonist, John’s journey of redemption and personal transformation. John seeks a simpler life and redemption for past choices that may have prioritized success over personal fulfillment. His role as a Laafia car driver symbolizes his quest for a more meaningful existence, suggesting that true fulfillment often comes from unexpected sources.
- Empathy and Human Connection: The novel strongly emphasizes empathy and the transformative power of human connection. Through his interactions with passengers, John discovers the diverse embroidery of human experiences and challenges. These encounters serve as a reminder of the common humanity shared by all, regardless of their backgrounds or current circumstances, and they foster a deeper understanding of empathy as essential to personal and societal well-being.
- Justice and Accessibility: Another significant theme is the concept of justice, especially social justice. As a high-profile lawyer, John reflects on the inadequacies of the formal justice system in terms of reaching and protecting all individuals equitably. His decision to start a pro-bono legal clinic underscores the theme of justice and accessibility to everyone, particularly the underprivileged, and highlights individuals’ role in addressing systemic inequalities.
- The Human Stories Within the Urban Experience: The city itself is a backdrop against which various human stories unfold. The novel explores how urban environments shape the lives and experiences of its inhabitants, emphasizing the idea that every individual has a story and that these stories are worth hearing. This theme invites readers to look beyond the surface of busy urban life to understand the struggles, dreams, and resilience of those living within it.
- Self-Discovery and Identity: John’s transformation also prompts him to question and redefine his identity. The theme of self-discovery is woven throughout the narrative as John evaluates his past, considers his present, and makes choices about his future. This theme resonates with readers exploring what it means to live authentically.
- The Power of Small Acts: The novel celebrates the notion that small acts of kindness and understanding can have profound impacts. Each of John’s drives encapsulates this theme, as even brief interactions can illuminate truths, alter perspectives, or provide comfort. It illustrates how ordinary moments can lead to extraordinary revelations and changes.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I am currently working on a novel. As I fine-tune the elements of these stories, considering various factors that will shape their final forms, I will soon decide on the final title and when it will reach my readers. I eagerly look forward to sharing this news with my fans. Stay tuned for updates and teasers that I hope will whet your appetite for the romantic journeys ahead!
Each passenger John encounters in his car brings a new perspective, revealing the city’s heartbeat and the complexities of human experiences. These encounters range from an ambitious college student wrestling with his future, a high-profile executive hiding vulnerabilities behind a façade of success, to a figure from John’s past who threatens to disrupt his newfound peace.
As John drives through the city, he faces his own internal struggles, reflecting on his past decisions and contemplating his future. His journey is one of self-discovery, empathy, and understanding, challenging his views on justice and humanity.
Ultimately, John’s experiences as a driver led him to a significant decision – establishing a pro-bono legal clinic to assist those who cannot afford it. This initiative brings together diverse individuals, including former colleagues and new allies, who share his vision of accessible justice.
Driving For Justice is about finding redemption and purpose in unexpected places. It celebrates the nuances of human connections, the impact of storytelling, and the power of empathy in navigating the complex world of legal and moral dilemmas. It’s a testament to the idea that sometimes, the most significant journeys are those that bring us back to our core values.
Driving For Justice
In Driving for Justice, Justin K. Kojok weaves a tale of redemption and introspection set against the vibrant backdrop of city life. John Sanbian is a successful lawyer with high-stakes cases who takes on a part-time job as a Laafia car driver, encountering passengers whose diverse stories mirror the city’s complex human landscape. This shift in career sets John on a path of self-discovery, pushing him to confront his past, reevaluate his views on justice and humanity, and ultimately find deeper meaning in his life.
The novel adeptly explores themes of empathy and moral dilemma through John’s interactions, which challenge both his and the reader’s perceptions of justice. His journey from a lawyer to someone who actively seeks to aid the vulnerable—culminating in the establishment of a pro-bono legal clinic with his wife, Lila—highlights the potential for personal transformation and societal impact.
John’s character resonates due to his vulnerability and the universal quest for purpose, making him a relatable figure for readers grappling with similar existential questions. The narrative is enriched by the contrasts it draws between the idealism of John’s aspirations and the gritty reality of urban existence, underscoring the narrative’s message that individuals can indeed make a difference. The character portrayals in the book present opportunities for further depth and distinctiveness. Although John and Lila sometimes merge in their characteristics, this similarity prompts an anticipation of further development in their individuality. Moreover, while effective, the dialogue has the potential to more vividly reflect each character’s unique voices and backgrounds, enriching the narrative’s diversity and relatability.
Driving for Justice is a compelling exploration of personal and legal dilemmas, offering a thoughtful look at the intersections of life, law, and morality.
Pages: 439 | ASIN : B0CQ419FDH
The Legacy
Prepare to be captivated by James Gilbert’s enthralling tale, The Legacy, which centers around the intriguing life of our protagonist, Adam Chauncey. As a lawyer at the Smithson and Dwyer firm, Adam finds himself caught in the monotony of everyday life, yearning for something more profound. Little does he know that his wish for change will spiral into a riveting and unexpected journey that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
In this gripping narrative, Adam’s character development takes center stage. He starts off as a man plagued by indecision, but as the story unfolds, he transforms into a determined and resolute figure. Flawed yet immensely likable, Adam’s evolution is a testament to Gilbert’s skillful storytelling. Sally Warren, Adam’s love interest, is a force to be reckoned with—smart, strong, and fiercely independent. You’ll quickly find yourself rooting for her. The supporting characters are thoughtfully crafted and seamlessly fit into the narrative, enhancing the overall storytelling experience.
The Legacy offers an intriguing mystery that keeps you guessing with its numerous twists and turns. The characters’ lives are a rollercoaster of ups and downs, ensuring that you’re constantly on your toes, eagerly anticipating the next revelation. The story’s tone is dark and suspenseful, drawing you deeper into its intricate web of intrigue. The pacing of the narrative is expertly executed, maintaining a swift tempo that ensures you’re never left with a dull moment. The setting is so well integrated into the story that it becomes an indispensable element, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the tale.
This story is a captivating blend of drama, tension, and a touch of romance that culminates in an exhilarating reading experience. While the action that does occur is executed brilliantly, I think a bit more exploration in this area would have added an extra layer of excitement and suspense to the narrative. Nonetheless, The Legacy is a compelling read that will leave you hungry for more of James Gilbert’s storytelling prowess.
Pages: 188 | ASIN : B0CKV2VGRR
A Bit Against The Grain
The Burglar is the fast-paced and captivating story of Springer, a man who awakens to find himself face-to-face with an intruder stumbling around his apartment. Where did the idea for your thrilling short story come from?
It must have come from a movie I saw back in 1986 that I can’t remember the name of. Although I do remember the year I saw it, strangely enough, I don’t remember the film’s name. So, somewhere out there, there is an old flick that is somewhat similar to The Burglar.
There is a saying, “There’s nothing new under the sun.” So, although the flick was not on my mind when I sat down to type, I think it must have been lurking somewhere in my subconscious when I put my fingers to my keyboard.
I don’t remember exactly, but I think that in the film, there were two intruders who broke into a man’s home while he and his wife were there. I also don’t remember whether there was any weed smoking involved, like in The Burglar, but I do recall the homeowner happily getting drunk with one of the intruders while, get this, the other one seduced, as opposed to assaulted, his wife in their bedroom.
I didn’t get the feeling that the “victim” would care if he found out. I remember him being so indifferent and drunk, that to the intruder he contentedly drank with he said, “You will tell my wife that I put up a good fight, won’t you?” Or something along those lines.
His wife was just as indifferent because not only wasn’t she assaulted, she welcomed the second burglar’s attention. Go figure, or try to figure out what kind of mindset that husband and wife had. For me, it was a mind-boggling film that definitely left an imprint on my mind.
What are some things that you find interesting about the human condition that you think make for great fiction?
Everything about the human condition makes for great fiction, so it’s nice to read books that go a bit against the grain. You know, those that don’t read like a cliché.
Like I said earlier, there is a saying, “There’s nothing new under the sun,” so to find that one book or movie that stands out from the others because the creator tweaked what has become hackneyed, is always precious.
Was it important for you to deliver a moral to readers as you developed the characters of Springer and the burglar?
It wasn’t important to me at all. My aim was to write a story that was out of the ordinary, not to espouse any particular position or another.
Can readers expect to see more from you soon?
Yes, of course. I am always writing. I have an independent online bookstore business that I have to keep going. Bookstore is the operative word. I write and publish more than just short stories. For that matter, those who know more about me know that I started out writing and continue to write and publish epic dark fantasy novels also.
Author Links: Twitter | Pinterest | Facebook | Website | Amazon | PennFawnBooks
The Burglar is that with a twist. The culprit’s inexperience, jitters, and nerves are at the forefront of what pushes this daring tale forward, where his name and almost nothing about his identity is ever disclosed. An examination of his mindset is what brings this fast-paced action feature to its twisted end.
The Burglar is the opening tale from a series of other short-form writings the author plans to individually release. They will then be published as a compilation.
The Burglar
Penn Fawn’s The Burglar is an absolutely captivating short story. The narrative skillfully unfolds around Springer, who finds himself awakened by an intruder stumbling over a computer cord in his apartment. The intense yet delicately crafted conversation between the two characters is truly mesmerizing and adds an alluring touch to the prose.
Fawn’s ambitious writing style brings a fresh perspective to the genre, and the themes explored in the story are thought-provoking and engaging. It’s truly impressive how the author manages to weave so many themes, motifs, and lessons into just 25 pages, leaving readers contemplating people’s intentions, boundaries, and acceptance of events and individuals in their own lives days after finishing the story. While some critics might find fault with the formal vernacular and sentence structure, I believe these elements add a unique flair to the narrative, emphasizing Fawn’s creativity and individuality as an author. Moreover, the characters’ reactions and responses to the break-in, though unconventional, offer a fresh and intriguing perspective. Springer’s nonchalant and dismissive demeanor in such a situation challenges the norm and sparks curiosity in the minds of readers, making them rethink how they would react in similar circumstances.
The Burglar is an excellent book that deserves to find its way to the top of the award lists. For those who appreciate ambitious and thought-provoking storytelling, this short story is an absolute gem. I commend Penn Fawn’s ingenuity in crafting such an incendiary tale that lingers in the reader’s mind long after the book’s amazing conclusion.
If I Want The World To Change
Mothers Vol. 1 follows a widowed mother of two boys who is working in a job she hates while caring for one child with cancer and the other who feels neglected. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I based some of the story and characters on my mother, other mothers I’ve met, and my earlier childhood. This story was needed because I believe there is a negative stigma about single mothers and people who live in and/or come from housing projects. While impoverished areas might have higher crime and negative aspects than some areas, good people live in and come from these areas too. My main goal with every book I write is to improve race relations. If I want the world to change, I have to help it change, and I’m trying to do that with my writing.
What were the morals you were trying to capture while creating your characters?
There were a lot of morals to the story, but a few are: Don’t judge a book by its cover. Always think before you act. Your actions have consequences.
What was the chosen theme of the novel or did it develop organically as you were writing?
The theme was to honor single mothers. Juanita is a widowed single mother working a job she hates to provide for her two sons. Tracy is a single mother working nights at the hospital as a nurse’s aide to provide for her twins, Akeem and Ebony. Unfortunately, the father of her two children abandoned his responsibilities and enjoyed street life more than being a father, leaving Tracy to pick up the slack alone. Debbie is the only Caucasian mother in the novel, but she represents that single mothers come in every race, shape, and kind. She has Multiple Sclerosis and still struggling to raise her only son to be a man alone after her husband left her because he didn’t want to be a father. (This also shows that situations like this happen to every race and is just the typical stereotype for minorities) It is one thing to be a mother taking care of a sickly child, but to be a sickly mother that has to muster up the energy every day to raise your children takes strength and fortitude.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
The next book I am working on is Mothers Vol. 2 which will be somewhat of a sequel to my novel “A Father’s Sacrifice: Daddy’s Girl. I’m a huge perfectionist when it comes to my writing, so I hope to have it finished in a year or two.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
In 1995, tragedy struck when Maurice Wilson returned home from the grocery store and was killed by a stray bullet, leaving his wife, Juanita, a widowed single mother of two. Having no life insurance and barely any savings, Juanita is forced to sell what few valuable items she has to give her husband a decent burial. With her husband no longer around as the primary breadwinner and without his salary, Juanita struggled to financially keep her and her children’s heads above water, but she managed to survive.
Tragically, two years following the death of her husband, her youngest child is diagnosed with cancer, leaving Juanita deeply in debt due to copayments for treatments, surgeries, prescriptions, and transportation to and from her job and doctors’ visits. Overworked and underpaid, Juanita works a job she hates at the prestigious law firm of Wayne, Rothstein, and Lincoln to provide for her children. When her oldest child, Jalen, begins to feel neglected because his mother cannot afford to buy him the things he wants, constantly works overtime, and is always taking care of his younger brother, he is lured by the streets and a local drug dealer named Drastic. Will Jerami, Juanita’s youngest son, survive cancer? Can Juanita endure being drowned in debt and working a stressful job? Will her eldest son, Jalen, continue to be drawn to and consumed by the streets? Mothers, Vol. 1, is the riveting prologue to the award-winning novel, Defining Moments: Black and White, about a mother’s bravery and fortitude to do whatever is necessary for her children.
Mothers Vol. 1
In Mothers Vol. 1, Ben Burgess Jr. masterfully weaves a poignant, multi-layered urban narrative that delves deep into the heart-wrenching struggles of a single mother, Juanita, raising two boys in a crime-infested neighborhood. Tragedy strikes when Juanita’s son is diagnosed with cancer just two years after the devastating loss of her spouse to a stray bullet. As she grapples with financial woes and the constant worry about her older son’s brushes with the law, Juanita’s job as a senior executive assistant and administrative manager at the prestigious New York law firm, Wayne, Rothstein, and Lincoln, hangs in the balance.
Enthralling and thought-provoking, Mothers Vol. 1 captivates readers with its intricate plot twists, memorable characters, and a potent exploration of the challenges faced by resilient, independent single mothers in today’s world. The workplace antagonist who schemes to oust Juanita in favor of his illicit lover adds a layer of tension and frustration to the story.
Though the novel features some violent episodes and explicit intimate scenes, making it most suitable for mature readers, its emotional core shines through. The narrative switches between the perspectives of Juanita and her son, offering a comprehensive view of their internal struggles. While Jalen spirals into a life of crime, resentful of his mother’s perceived inadequacies, Juanita strives to provide for her children and maintain a semblance of normalcy amidst chaos. The engaging storyline is further enriched by powerful lessons on empathy, bridging racial divides, and embracing tolerance.
This compelling novel is sure to resonate with fans of urban literature and stories that celebrate the fortitude of single mothers. Upon turning the final page, readers will not only gain a newfound admiration for the heroic efforts of single mothers but also develop a deeper understanding of the hardships faced by children raised in crime-ridden communities. Mothers Vol. 1 is an unputdownable, eye-opening literary gem that leaves a lasting impression.
Pages: 499 | ASIN : B0C1MN2NW3
Who Could Benefit From Such A Crime
Contracts for Sale follows a reporter and colleagues who investigate a series of murders with no evidence to work off of but a lot of questions. What was the inspiration for the setup to your story?
I have often fantasized while writing about the perfect murder, the perfect crime, where there are no witnesses, no DNA evidence, no surveillance records, and no fingerprints. I’ve often wondered about how such a crime could be committed, and who could benefit from such a crime. It was this line of thinking that led me to believe that if this were possible, it would need to be handled by a group of professionals who would profit from committing such a crime. Thus, the Eradication Inc. corporation was conceived, and CONTRACTS FOR SALE was written.
With so many interesting characters, both good, evil, and those in between, who was your favorite character to write for and why?
I am still attracted to my protagonist characters, especially my reporters like Paul Crawford and Larry McKay. In several books, my favorite egotistical, narcissistic news reporter, Chaz Rizzo will always be a cherished character. Little Tony DiMatteo is my beloved mob guy. He has been inspired by Actor Joe Pesci from GOODFELLAS & CASINO. Criminal Attorney Michael Prescott constantly reappears in my storylines. CPD Detective Phil Dorian is another go-to favorite.
With my books, I have created a ‘CHICAGO STYLE’ community of characters that interact with one another in various storylines, but still create stand-alone novels. With my DETROIT THEMED NOVELS, Johnny Valentino and Mikie Palazzola will always be my favorite DPD detectives.
A reader can pick up any one of my books and jump in, without having to engage in reading a series of novels in any specific order.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
As I have said, many readers have often fantasized about performing the perfect murder, the perfect eradication of one’s most evil enemy. It is always nice to create that fantasy and incorporate it into a new story line. Thriller fiction is a means of creating and envisioning your most perfect, most personal acts of retribution and revenge, and CONTRACTS FOR SALE explores those evil intentions.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
I’m working on several, hopefully will be available soon:
Dinner at Tony Napoli’s, Evil Acts of Contrition and Never Catch a Firefly – these storylines are evolving and changing, so stay tuned!
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
How would you like to hire the services of an elite group of professional assassins who will accept the assignment of deleting your most horrific adversary, performing the perfect murder without a trace?
Chicago Sun-Times Reporter Paul Crawford is asked to investigate a series of recent murders he eventually calls the ‘Houdini Victims.’ He begins with the investigation of a corporate executive who vanishes from a parking garage in the Chicago Loop without a trace. The most unusual fact about this crime is that there is no body, no DNA evidence, no surveillance cameras, and no fingerprints. This murder was done by a professional, and neither Crawford nor his Channel Eight reporter buddy, Chaz Rizzo, can figure out who it is.
Mark Stelter, CEO of Eradication, Inc., has found a niche and a marketable demand for those who wish to eliminate their worst enemies. For the price of $99,900, he has a stable of professional killers who can abduct any victim and make them disappear. With the help of his affiliate company, Eco-Green Environmental Consultants, he has the chemicals, the facilities, and the personnel to make any murder victim vanish without a trace. He conducts his covert corporation like any other corporate entity, with a board of directors meeting monthly and dividend declarations to his shareholders.
But when one of the directors attempts to resign, things get complicated. Stelter sends his killers to track down and assassinate the former shareholder. They use a unique apparatus called a ‘bolito,’ instantaneously killing their victims. With a section in the director’s contracts barring them from resigning and signing their death warrants, the shareholders of Eradication Inc. are now getting nervous. Although they are making millions, the shareholders now realize they are risking their lives and can only escape with their deaths.
As the victims vanish, Paul Crawford continues to investigate the environmental company and how they are connected to the recent Chicago murders. With the shareholders of Eradication Inc. wishing to resign and make a deal with the Chicago P.D., Mark Stelter struggles to keep his Board of Directors unified with an iron fist.
It is now only a question of time before either the reporters or the shareholders become the next vanishing victims of Eradication, Inc.
LITERARY TITAN 