TPJ: Hi Darius! Thank you for taking the time to share some of your indie author story with our readers. Let's start by talking about who you are and your background before publishing your books.

SECTION 1 — Author Information

TPJ: What name do you write under, and is there a story behind your pen name?

DK: Darius Knight - No pen name

TPJ: How would you describe yourself in a nutshell for readers who are just meeting you?

DK: I’m from South Georgia and becoming an author has always been a passion for me. In this spotlight, you’re going to get a dive into my mind and in turn you may want to check out my work.

I created an LLC for myself known as, Knight Vision Stories. I wanted my own symbol as a way to showcase my message about creating worlds for everyone.

TPJ: Where can readers connect with you online? (Website, social media links)

DK: Website: 

https://linqapp.com/knightvisionstories

Social Media Links:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/darius.knight.364706

Instagram -

https://www.instagram.com/knightvisionstories

TikTok -

https://www.tiktok.com/@knightvisionstories

SECTION 2 — Books & Writing Background

TPJ: Before you became an author, what was life like for you? Any experiences that shaped your storytelling?

DK: Before I became an author, I was and still am a truck driver. Finding a balance between over-the-road life, writing, and time with loved ones can be a challenge. But over time, I figured out how to mix it all in, though there are still times when it can be challenging.

TPJ: What sparked the idea for your very first book?

DK: At the very beginning, my dreams are what inspired me to write. They became ideas that I used to expand on to create a story. Anime and gaming were also an inspiration because I wanted to create a world for people to escape to.

TPJ: What genres feel like “home” for you—and why do they speak to you?

DK: My genre is fantasy and I like to tell people that I consider my genre as action fantasy. The reason is because there are a lot of fantasy books that focus on romance, but my books focus on action and plot development. My fight scenes are my bread and butter, lol.

TPJ: How many books have you written so far? Which one holds a special place in your heart?

DK: So far I have written two books and I'm currently working on a third installment. My books are, The Secrets of Spirit Energy and The Secrets of Spirit Energy: Final Conquest.

TPJ: When you first started writing, what surprised you most about the publishing world?

DK: Before I was ready to put my book out into the world, I had no knowledge of genres, publishing or anything. I did a lot of research to figure how to do things and what worked for most people. I was lucky enough to befriend people who were knowledgeable on all of my questions.

SECTION 3 — Writing Process & Experience

TPJ: Are you more of a planner or a “write as it comes” kind of author?

DK: My writing process is all over the place. I tend to outline how the book will flow. While I’m out working (driving), I use voice recognition to put down notes on ideas that hit me in the moment. I also research certain elements I want to use to make sure I’m giving it justice and to also make sure I’m not insulting anything already existing.

TPJ: Do you have a favorite time of day to write—or any quirky rituals that help you get in the zone?

DK: I don’t write during a specific time of day. I usually write when I have the time and also when the inspiration hits me.

Sometimes I’ll play a video game for 30 minutes before I begin writing to turn up my creative thought process. When I’m writing fight scenes, I like to listen to instrumental music that I feel resonates with the scene at hand. I also have a playlist of music I listen to while I write.

TPJ: What’s been your biggest challenge as a writer, and how did you push through it?

DK: My biggest challenge would be writer’s block. I usually overcome this by taking a step back and do things I enjoy doing to give my mind a reset. It could be anything from gaming or hanging out with close friends. It’s not an immediate solution, but it does help.

TPJ: Why did you choose the self-publishing route? What does that freedom mean to you?

DK: I chose self publishing so I can write on my own schedule. I also wanted that pride of knowing that the accomplishments I’m making are from my own sweat and tears.

It also doesn’t hurt that self publishing is fairly easy to do.

SECTION 4 — Themes, Characters & Readers

TPJ: Who do you imagine reading your books? Who are you writing for?

DK: My ideal reader is anyone who enjoys fantasy or is open minded to give it a try. There isn’t anyone specific I target, because I’d like to reach and entertain as many people as I can.

TPJ: What messages or themes do you hope readers take away from your stories?

DK: The main theme in my books is believing in your own power and being self aware of the awesome person you are. Many people have told me this is what they took away from or learned from my work. It’s so cool what people have told me.

TPJ: Do you have a character that feels especially close to your heart? Tell us why.

DK: All of them do. The main cast of heroes in my books are loosely based on close friends of mine. Down to personality and appearance. Even my villains represent people I’ve had to endure in my life.

TPJ: Can you share a favorite scene or line from your work that still makes you smile?

DK: Without giving the plot away, my favorite scene is in book two when one of my characters make a grand entrance. Not to show boat or anything, but he arrived at the perfect moment as a new and improved person. He put himself through so much, just to become something more.

My favorite line is from the beginning of book one. “You are not just the sword, you are the calm precision before the strike.”

Every-time I hear my narrator say that line it gives me chills, lol.

SECTION 5 — Life Beyond Writing

TPJ: When you’re not writing, what brings you joy? Any hobbies or creative outlets?

DK: Outside of writing and working, video games, comics and spending time with my crew are my favorite things to do. There’s a brewery in town I love going to when I get the chance.

TPJ: Tell us about your family or pets—our readers love these personal touches!

DK: My family is super supportive. I’ll never forget the first time my little sister surprised me and came to one of the comic cons I was a guest at. My parents have also attended my events and many other members of my family.

One of my cousins allowed me to use her as a model when my books became part of our local library system. That experience was so cool.

I have a dog and his name is Ace. There was a time I used him in my videos with a voice over because I wasn’t ready to show my face yet, lol. He really put in work for me.

TPJ: What’s one fun or surprising fact about you that readers might not expect?

DK: One thing most people don’t get to see is my shyness. When I’m doing cons or interviews, I look so composed like I've done it a hundred times. Honestly, I get so nervous inside, I feel like I’m going to pass out, lol.

SECTION 6 — Looking Ahead

TPJ: What’s next for you? Any exciting projects or books on the horizon?

DK: Right now I’m working on book three to complete my first trilogy. I’ve also been outlining what’s to come after my first series is done. My goal is to create a big universe and eventually have some of my worlds crossover.

TPJ: Where do you see your author journey five years from now?

DK: I hope to be an author full time and be comfortable enough that my books are my only and main source of income. Whatever God has planned for me, I’m here for it.

TPJ: Where’s the best place for readers to follow your work and join your community?

DK: Readers can follow me on most social media platforms. I am actively post on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

**My eBooks are available on Amazon for FREE, this week only, during this Spotlight! Grab your copy now!

https://a.co/d/hlG8cQL

Also available in paperback and audiobook formats.

Also please review my books when you check them out. It will definitely help my work catch the eyes of people who can help enhance my vision.