I am thinking about Cord Jefferson’s Oscar acceptance speech and the overall premise of the movie American Fiction. I made a decision to not pitch my book to traditional publishers because I want to maintain control of my story and my vision and too many times (if a manuscript is even accepted) that industry wants to shove a writer like me and my characters into a predetermined box. THAT IS REAL.

My writing will always be a depiction of real life, whether it’s my poetry, creation of nonfiction, or fiction. The real life that I share in my storytelling reflects my experiences, my friends’, family’s, and community’s, and that is wide, rich, and varied.

My novel, Love At Second Sight, is my love letter to Black love, joy, community, friendship, family, art, and growth. I wrote a relatable story with characters that you want to hang with and get to know. There are true emotions, challenges, and decisions that are universal. Love is in the pages, all types of love. It doesn’t fit into a box.  I/we don’t fit into a box.