We were lucky to catch up with Antwan Floyd recently and have shared our conversation below.

Antwan, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

In the heart of Hollywood, I, a young writer from Minnesota, dreamt of selling my screenplay. Despite the allure, the film industry’s doors stayed closed. Undeterred, I found a new passion—novel writing. Rejections fueled my determination, leading to the creation of 13 novels and numerous short stories. Where Hollywood turned me away, my literary works found success. I returned to Minnesota not with a sold screenplay but with a collection of 13 published novels, proving that sometimes, detours lead to the most fulfilling destinations.

Antwan, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I, a prominent American novelist, have carved my literary niche primarily within the gripping realm of crime fiction. My renowned body of work centers around a series of best-selling mysteries, with the hard-boiled detective Black Love at the heart of the narrative. Set against the backdrop of the vibrant city of Chicago, Illinois, my novels immerse readers in a world of intrigue, suspense, and the gritty realities of urban life.

The character of Black Love, a black private investigator, serves as the linchpin of my storytelling prowess. With a sharp mind, unyielding determination, and a moral compass that navigates the complexities of his surroundings, Black Love captures the essence of the hard-boiled detective archetype. I masterfully weave together intricate plots, rich character development, and atmospheric settings to create a series that resonates with readers on a visceral level.

My decision to anchor my stories in Chicago adds a layer of authenticity to my narratives. The city becomes not just a backdrop but a character in itself—a sprawling metropolis with its own rhythm, challenges, and secrets. Through vivid descriptions and a keen understanding of the urban landscape, I bring the streets of Chicago to life, creating an immersive experience that enhances the overall impact of my novels.

While I have explored various themes and genres throughout my career, it is the Black Love series that has garnered me widespread acclaim. The character’s popularity extends beyond the pages of the novels, transcending the boundaries of fiction to become a cultural icon in the realm of crime literature.

In the tapestry of American literature, my contributions stand as a testament to the enduring appeal of crime fiction and the ability of a skilled storyteller to capture the imaginations of readers. With Black Love leading the charge, I continue to leave an indelible mark on the literary landscape, inviting readers to delve into the shadows and mysteries of my carefully crafted narratives.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

The journey of a writer is often a solitary one, a winding path through the realms of imagination, inspiration, and at times, isolation. As the ink flows and the keys click, the writer steps into a world of their own creation, navigating the intricate landscapes of characters, plots, and emotions. It is in this solitude that the resilience of a writer truly comes to the forefront—a testament to the undying commitment to craft and the refusal to surrender to the persistent shadows of doubt.

In the quiet hours of the night, when the world sleeps, the writer awakens. The glow of the computer screen becomes a portal to alternate realities, and the blank page transforms into a canvas waiting to be painted with words. Yet, with every stroke of the keyboard, a sense of solitude envelops the writer. The act of creation, though liberating, can also be an isolating experience, as the writer delves into the depths of their thoughts, facing the echoes of uncertainty and the haunting question: Will anyone understand?

The journey is fraught with rejection, the sting of unappreciated efforts, and the gnawing loneliness that accompanies the pursuit of a solitary craft. Friends may not comprehend the hours spent hunched over a desk, the emotional investment in fictional worlds, and the ceaseless revisions that strive for perfection. It’s a journey that often feels like a solitary walk through a vast desert, with the mirage of success shimmering on the distant horizon.

Yet, the resilient writer persists.

In the face of rejection letters and the deafening silence of unresponsive agents, the writer finds solace in the very act of creation. The loneliness, once a heavy burden, transforms into a companion, a silent confidant that understands the intricacies of the creative process. It becomes a driving force, propelling the writer forward, whispering encouragement in the quiet moments of self-doubt.

The resilience lies in the ability to turn isolation into introspection, to embrace the solitude as a necessary companion on the writer’s journey. It is the acknowledgment that the creative path is often a lonely one, but within that solitude, the writer discovers a strength that withstands the storms of doubt and rejection.

In the quiet of the night, surrounded by the hum of the computer and the soft glow of the desk lamp, the writer forges ahead. The loneliness, once perceived as an obstacle, becomes a source of empowerment. For in the solitude, the writer finds not only the courage to face the challenges but also the resilience to defy defeat.

And so, the writer persists, penning their story in the language of resilience, turning the page toward a future where the echoes of solitude are drowned out by the resounding success of a story well told.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

In the digital age, the evolution of resources has become a guiding force for creators, offering tools that propel imagination into reality. As a writer navigating the labyrinth of storytelling, I’ve discovered a treasure trove of invaluable resources, each contributing its own unique brushstroke to the canvas of my creative process.

At the forefront of my creative toolkit is MasterClass, an online sanctuary where the masters of various fields unveil the secrets of their craft. One course that has left an indelible mark on my journey is led by the illustrious author Dan Brown. Through the screen, he shares the alchemy of storytelling, unraveling the mysteries of plot, character, and suspense. Brown’s insights not only serve as a beacon for aspiring writers but also as a source of inspiration that fuels the flames of creativity.

Canva and Book Brush emerge as the artists’ palettes in my digital atelier. These design platforms transcend the traditional boundaries of pen and paper, allowing me to visually craft the essence of my stories. With Canva, I shape captivating book covers that beckon readers into the worlds I’ve meticulously constructed. Book Brush, on the other hand, transforms my words into visual symphonies, creating promotional materials that resonate with the essence of my narratives.

In the realm of freelancing, Fiverr and Upwork stand as the architects of collaboration. Fiverr, a bustling marketplace of creative minds, connects me with graphic designers, editors, and marketing experts who breathe life into my projects. Meanwhile, Upwork serves as the bridge to a diverse pool of professionals, offering services that range from editing to virtual assistance. These platforms not only expand my creative reach but also foster a sense of community, reminding me that, even in the solitude of writing, a team of skilled individuals can elevate my work to new heights.

As a writer navigating the complexities of the modern landscape, these resources weave seamlessly into the tapestry of my creative process. MasterClass propels me forward with knowledge, Canva and Book Brush paint my stories in vivid hues, and Fiverr and Upwork build bridges to collaborative success. Together, they form the pillars of a digital atelier, where the tools of the trade are not quills and parchment but pixels and algorithms.

In the ever-expanding universe of creative resources, the synergy of these platforms transforms the solitary act of writing into a dynamic, collaborative endeavor. It is a testament to the adaptability of storytelling, where the pen is not merely mightier than the sword, but also wields the power of a global community of creators, each contributing to the collective masterpiece of human imagination.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.crimefictionmedia.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/antwanfloydsr/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorantwan.floyd
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AntwanFloydSr