Today we’d like to introduce you to Author Khemistri J

Hi Author Khemistri J, 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?

My story as an author has been a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and finding my voice. Writing was always something I felt drawn to, but for years, I let fear and doubt keep me from fully embracing it. I worried about what people would think, and I questioned if I was really ready to put my work out there for the world to see. It wasn’t until I faced a serious health challenge that I found the strength to stop waiting and start pursuing my passion wholeheartedly.

During that time, writing became more than just a creative outlet—it became a form of healing. I poured myself into my debut novel, The Connect Kidnapped My Heart, which I published in 2023. It was the beginning of my journey into my career as an author, and from that moment on, I knew I had found my path. My stories, rooted in black love and real-life experiences, resonated with readers in ways I hadn’t imagined possible. The support and connection I felt from my audience pushed me to continue writing, crafting more stories that reflected the raw and passionate lives of my characters.

But my journey didn’t stop at writing books. By the end of 2023, I took a leap of faith and launched my own publishing company, Next Caliber Productions. This wasn’t just a move to further my career—it was a mission to uplift other black authors and creators, to give them a platform where their stories could shine. I believe deeply in the power of representation and making sure that authentic black voices are heard in every corner of the literary world.

Looking back, my path was anything but straightforward, but every twist and turn brought me closer to where I am now. From overcoming personal challenges to growing a dedicated readership, I’ve learned that persistence is everything. Now, as both an author and a publisher, I’m more determined than ever to push the boundaries of black literature and create opportunities for others to tell their stories too.

It’s been a long road, but I’m grateful for every step. Everything I’ve been through has made me the writer I am today, and I’m excited to see where this journey takes me next.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?

The road has definitely not been smooth, but I believe the challenges have made me stronger as both an author and a person. One of the biggest struggles early on was finding my audience. As a new author in the urban fiction space, I had to figure out not only who my readers were but also how to connect with them. It took time, trial and error, and a lot of perseverance to build a loyal readership. At first, it felt like my voice was just one in a sea of many, but eventually, I found my lane and connected with people who resonated with my style and my stories.

Another challenge was learning to trust my own voice and creativity. When you’re putting your heart and soul into your writing, it’s easy to second-guess yourself or compare your work to others. I had to grow out of that mindset—those doubts that creep in telling you you’re not good enough or that no one will care about your stories. I had to learn to trust my pen, to believe that my voice was unique and that the stories I wanted to tell mattered. That was a huge hurdle to overcome, but once I embraced my authenticity, it changed everything for me.

Balancing my career as an author with my personal life as a wife and mother has also been a constant challenge. Writing is such a personal, time-consuming process, and with two children and a family to care for, finding that balance has never been easy. There were times when I had to write late into the night after the kids were asleep or squeeze in editing sessions between school drop-offs. It’s a juggling act, and it’s easy to feel stretched thin. But at the same time, being a wife and mother has given me so much inspiration. My family motivates me to keep going, and they’ve been incredibly supportive of my journey.

Lastly, drowning out the noise, opinions, and doubts of others so that I can create what I’m inspired to create has been another significant challenge. In this industry, there’s always going to be feedback—some of it constructive, some of it harsh. When I first started, I let those opinions weigh me down. I worried too much about how people would perceive my work. But over time, I’ve developed a thicker skin. I’ve learned that not everyone is going to love what you write, and that’s okay. As long as I’m true to my voice and my vision, I’m on the right path.

So, while the road has had its bumps, every struggle has been a lesson. It’s all part of the process, and I wouldn’t change any of it because it’s helped me grow into the author—and person—I am today.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Author Khemistri J | Next Caliber Productions?

At the heart of my business is storytelling—creating engaging, authentic stories that reflect black love, resilience, and growth. My company, Next Caliber Productions, was founded with a mission to not only share my own stories but to also amplify the voices of other Black authors who have important, powerful stories to tell. Through this publishing company, I’m dedicated to highlighting narratives that often don’t get enough visibility in mainstream fiction, especially within the urban fiction genre.

What we specialize in is bringing real, raw, and relatable stories to the forefront. My books, and the stories I help publish, often revolve around imperfect characters navigating complex relationships, street culture, and the challenges that come with those experiences. Readers tell me that they see themselves in the characters I write about, and that connection is what drives my work. I aim to craft stories that pull readers in with intensity, passion, and authenticity.

What sets Next Caliber Productions apart is our focus on the intersection of street and romance. We don’t shy away from the gritty realities of life, but we also make sure to highlight the beauty and depth of black love. My readers know they’ll get something real—stories that feel genuine, whether it’s through the struggles my characters face or the love that keeps them going. My brand is known for street-smart, sexy, and spicy black love stories, and that’s something I’m proud of.

One of the things I’m most proud of is the community we’ve built around the brand. It’s more than just selling books—it’s about creating a space where black stories are celebrated and supported. I’ve connected with readers who’ve stayed loyal and have followed my journey from day one. That sense of community and shared experience is priceless, and I’m grateful for it every day.

Beyond just my books, Next Caliber Productions is growing as a platform for other black authors. I’m passionate about giving emerging writers the opportunities and mentorship they need to succeed in this industry. My goal is to shine a light on diverse narratives and help these writers find their voices, just as I found mine.

For readers and potential clients, I want them to know that everything I do comes from a place of passion and authenticity. Whether you’re picking up one of my novels or working with my company to bring your story to life, you’ll be getting something real and crafted with care. My brand is all about creating representation in storytelling, providing an escape, and making sure that black voices are heard and celebrated in the world of fiction.

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?

When it comes to finding a mentor or building a strong network, the most important piece of advice I can give is to be intentional and proactive. Finding the right mentor isn’t just about seeking out someone who’s successful—it’s about connecting with someone who understands your goals, aligns with your values, and is willing to invest in your growth. I’ve found that relationships with mentors and other authors have to be authentic, built on trust, and a genuine desire to see each other succeed.

One thing that worked well for me was being open about my journey and seeking out connections with people who’ve walked the path I’m on. When you’re in spaces where your peers are sharing their experiences and insights, it’s easier to make genuine connections and learn from others who are a little further along in their careers.

Don’t be afraid to reach out to people whose work you admire. I’ve learned that sometimes, all it takes is an email or a message to start a conversation. Whether it’s asking for advice, offering support, or even just sharing your appreciation for their work, building relationships starts with simple acts of connection.

Networking isn’t just about what others can do for you—it’s about what you can bring to the table as well. Contributing to discussions, offering feedback, and sharing your own experiences have helped me grow a network of people who support each other. I’ve found that when you’re willing to give, people are much more likely to invest time and energy into helping you too.

In terms of mentorship, I’ve found that sometimes the best mentors aren’t always in the same field. Some of my biggest influences have been entrepreneurs and creatives who operate outside of the literary world but share valuable insights on running a business, building a brand, and navigating challenges. So, keep your mind open to learning from different perspectives.

Lastly, consistency and follow-through are key. Networking isn’t about one-off connections; it’s about building relationships over time. I always make an effort to check in with people, offer support, and stay engaged. When you’re consistent, people will remember you and be more willing to help when opportunities arise.

The right mentor and network can make all the difference in your growth, and building those connections takes time, but it’s worth it. Trust the process, be authentic, and stay open to learning from those around you.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://authorkhemistrij.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/authorkhemistrij
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorkhemistrijpage
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/authorkhemistri
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@authorkhemistrij
• Other: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1110946720179590