Today we’d like to introduce you to Aspry Jones.
Hi Aspry, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I’m a writer of fantasy and kids books. As of now, my three works are “Protectors Of The Light Crown,” its sequel “Beware The Golden Tigers,” and my first children’s piece, “AJ Learns Self-Love.” After 25 years working in broadcast television, I have happily transitioned to writing novels and I love every minute of it! Keep on the lookout for my next releases – the third book in my Light Crown series; another for kids, starring my dog Angel; and a spiritual journal. It’s going to be a wonderfully busy couple years!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It hasn’t been smooth, no. While some things were a cakewalk, others were nightmares. For every time I bombed, either by being duped by hack publicists or blown off by indie bookstores, I got blessed with an awesome cover artist landing right in front of me or a great interview opportunity hit my inbox. I’d say it’s been 50/50. Could’ve been worse. It’s tough out there for indie authors but the learning experiences are abundant.
Next year will be mostly devoted toward my shopping for an agent to help me ease out of the independent scene. At this point, I just want to write the books. Let someone else handle the red tape.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Admittedly a master of none, I’m by no means a Jack Of All Trades. Just a guy out here trying to bring rich, fun, creative, totally new stories to the world’s masses of readers. I’ve been professionally published in one way or the next since I was 16 years old. I’m 53 as of this release and only getting better.
As a comic book geek growing up, I was routinely disheartened by the lack of black heroes gracing the pages. I waited years for change until it became obvious that I was going to have to take on that task myself. That’s what I’m doing with my books – injecting some much needed diversity onto the fantasy and science fiction landscapes. My stories have people of all colors and backgrounds, including white. It means something for me to show modern day audiences that it can happen. It can work. And it can be cool. Ground-breaking. Even awesome.
I empower inclusion. So, I guess I’m most proud of that. When it’s all said and done, let me be known for that.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
There are some pretty good resources out there for indie writers, but there are also some vipers. Protect yourselves. Be wary of scammers finding your email address or phone number, offering you dream services. Keep your finger on that delete button because criminals masquerading as well-known industry players will reach out with offers sounding too good to be true.
Know the difference in vanity awards and respected literary awards. There’s a place for the occasional vanity award for new jacks, but don’t lean on them. They can be well-used for marketing purposes, but too much leaning on them may render your work illegitimate.
Never pay for podcast interviews. Platforms like Matchmaker are really good but there’s a number of hosts who think they can milk you for money to be on their shows. Don’t fall for it. Ever. I’m on my 25th podcast interview and I haven’t paid a dime.
Again, there are vipers out there. Sharks in the waters preying on inexperienced new writers. Be careful.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://aspryjones.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asprywrites/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aspryjones
- Yelp: https://tinyurl.com/AspryYelps
