Who rules the world?

Who rules the world? In the Hernandez series, it's Jorge Hernandez, bitch...

The former cartel king slowly eases his way into business, politics, and even the media.

When I started the series, I had no idea how close my fictional account was to the truth. I didn't realize at the time just how many things are run from behind the scenes. It would be naive to think that world leaders are making decisions without powerful people pulling the puppet strings. It would be equally naive to believe that the media isn't influenced, especially in light of the last few years. 

For many, writing fiction is about falling into a gentle fantasy world, but for me, it's instinctual, and sometimes....often, it turns out to be reality. 

Quick read from Loyalty Above All (there are no exceptions) 📖

In my new book Loyalty Above All (there are no exceptions), I further explore the wild, criminal world that is Jorge Hernandez. If you don't know who that is, this sums him up 👇🏼

A former Mexican narco transitions into Canadian life with family, politics, and business while holding tight to his ruthless, criminal ways. Meet Jorge Hernandez.

The fact that Jorge Hernandez is contemplating ‘doing good’ in the world should be enough to send a shiver down anyone’s spine. He may be living a seemingly legit lifestyle with his family in Canada, but don’t be fooled; this former Mexican cartel boss holds a powerful grip on everything from politics to media, and he’s never beyond getting a little blood on his hands.

When his daughter Maria steps up to someday head the familia, it is with great pride that Jorge breaks down the lessons that will secure her position in life. Giving her a glimpse into his daily activities, she quickly witnesses the stark view of the criminal mastermind at work. It doesn’t matter if he’s yelling at the prime minister or making plans to take someone down; Jorge does so with a powerful and unapologetic swoop. But how much is he willing to reveal? Is he ready for his daughter to learn about his brutal, murderous side? 

In a world where trust is essential, Jorge teaches her the powerful lesson; Loyalty above all. There are no exceptions. 

Check out the first paragraph (and me bumbling through it) 👇🏼

Why my readers love Jorge Hernandez ♥️

You might be wondering why people are drawn to the protagonist of the Hernandez series. After all, I've described him as a brutal criminal, so what's the appeal? 

This isn't all that surprising. Even when you watch some of your favorite television shows and movies, you'll notice that the characters that have the sharpest tongues, violent tendencies, and dark sides are sometimes the most fascinating to watch. There's an appeal, and it's because they have the traits that are considered antisocial and go against the grain, sometimes displaying actions and saying words that we may fantasize about but know we can't carry through on them. If we did, we might destroy many relationships, get fired, and maybe end up in prison! 

When I think of Jorge Hernandez, the first word that comes to mind is powerful. The second word is confident. These two traits rarely wane while writing about him. This is what draws other characters to him in the series. This is also what draws readers to this series. In a world where we increasingly feel like it's hard to find our footing on the ground, there's something incredible about reading about or watching a character who is scared of nothing. 

Jorge Hernandez is also solid and loyal, often to the degree where he becomes barbaric to protect his family. As much as people may be disturbed by violence, I think most of us appreciate the undying loyalty this character displays this trait, especially in a world where it has become increasingly rare. 

Why we love the softer side of a gangster character 💀(Updated)

Throughout the Hernandez series, readers are often surprised to see the softer side of the protagonist, Jorge Hernandez. Usually abrupt, in control, and dangerous, it's a surprise to see his vulnerabilities. This especially comes to light when dealing with either his children or wife, Paige. Something is appealing about the unexpected balance of his character.

In general, I think people enjoy discovering the unexpected when it comes to characters. There's something about getting past the mask, the bullshit, to learn who someone really is that is fascinating in both the real and fictitious world. I believe it's human nature to want to understand what makes people tick. Also, to see what we all have in common despite our backgrounds and status in the world.

I have said in the past that I normally don't write a love story. I guess it's perhaps my cynicism that makes me hesitant. However, I find the relationship between Jorge and Paige fascinating and adds an extra element to the series. I think the unlikelihood of two people who don't fit in well with the rest of the world meeting each other is somewhat inspiring. Throw in a couple of children, and the protagonist is forced to not always be in control, and as the reader, you get to see him unravel.

And there's something about seeing someone unravel that makes us see humanity. Which, I believe, is what we're often looking for in the first place.

The Jorge Hernandez BLOG 🙀 (Updated)

Jorge Hernandez checked into my seventh book, Always be a Wolf, and essentially took over. There was no way he couldn't have become the protagonist because his presence was much too strong to be a secondary character. The Mexican-Canadian was charming, powerful, and dangerous. Unlike other antiheroes in books and television, we weren't just viewing his forceful side but getting a peek into his everyday life. As it turns out, even this was anything but boring.  

I decided to write a blog from this character's perspective because I wanted to introduce him to those who haven't read my Hernandez series yet. I've only written a few posts so far, but I plan to continue to add more in the future. I hope that it gives people an inside view of his life, and unlike my books, it's written in a first-person perspective, hopefully creating a more personal connection between the reader and the character. 

We follow Jorge's journey through the series. Learn more HERE.