The official blog is associated with www.mimaonfire.com. Author of 18 books including the Hernandez series 🔪
Loyalty Above All
There are no exceptions.
☠️#counterculture #villains #darkhumor #bloodthirsty #antihero #criminals #fiction #Hernandezseries #Canadianfiction #darkfiction #politicalthriller #Amazonbooks #Kindle #booksworthreading
Showing posts with label Jorge Hernandez. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Jorge Hernandez. Show all posts
The fiery, former cartel boss takes over in the series (in the same way he takes over in most situations), and as it turns out, he has a lot to tell. Seventeen books later, he's still going strong.
The cool thing is that the series starts with We're All Animals, a book that centers on protagonist Chase Jacobs. We're talking about a guy who's the complete opposite of Jorge Hernandez (at least, in the beginning!) so it gives the reader some contrast. It also demonstrates how a boy next door can get caught up with some sinister characters on his path.
Jorge Hernandez may not be in the first book in his series, but he eventually comes along fast and furious. And, of course, like most things, he takes over.
We may not always agree with them, but protagonists are free to have their point of view. Unlike what readers might think, writers aren't playing God when writing a story but merely the co-author of every book. The protagonists run the show.
Granted, if you're reading about Jorge Hernandez in my Hernandez series, those points of view can get disturbing, can be sexist, and come from a very sharp tongue. This isn't a man who's hoping to be politically correct and he doesn't care about your feelings. It's his story to tell as he wishes. You're merely the reader who's coming along for the ride. Some people stay for the whole thing, while others get out of the car on chapter one. It just depends on the kind of adventure you want.
You have to remember that every protagonist comes with a vast array of experiences. Their past often predicts how they view the world, what they're most aware of, and how they react to any given situation. A former cartel boss will respond differently than a rural housewife or a suburban teenager. The things they notice and their instincts will vary, as do confidence levels in any given circumstance. There are so many factors that play a role, and it's also why a room filled with characters will react differently to the same event.
The protagonist and characters, in general, shouldn't be censored. There's enough censorship in this world without forcing our characters to also hold back on how they really feel.
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.
I never really understood why so many writers feel the need to make their protagonist the saint and innocent victim of life, but I tend to play my cards differently. There are many of my characters that might be considered rude, and I'm ok with that.
It all started when I wrote about a guy named Jimmy Groome in my first book (who came along as the protagonist in my second book, A Spark Before the Fire) that I discovered that writing about characters with an edge is fun. Although we learn that Jimmy was originally quite shy and bullied as a child in his back story, he eventually became a talented musician, which brings with it, popularity. That's when his rude side came out and often to those who were mean to him in his childhood. His remarks were often downright mean, but you could understand where this snappy attitude came from as a reader.
Later, I would write about a sassy, young vampire named Mariah (Her Name is Mariah) who was bold and had an attitude, but we understood once you know her back story. She grew up with an alcoholic mother and a father who left the family while Mariah was still a child. She grew a sharper edge because she needed it to survive. Determined to be no one's victim, Mariah never felt the need to hold back on her direct comments and attacks.
Of course, my sharpest, most abrupt, and rudest protagonist of all would have to be Jorge Hernandez (Hernandez series). He has few limits when it comes to rudeness. When you're on his bad side, Jorge has no limits to what he will say, with little concern about hurt feelings. Often a fine line between rudeness and threats, he once told an annoying telemarketer that if they called again, he would find them and cut their fucking throat. Needless to say, he's pretty extreme in his rudeness.
Rude characters can seem inappropriate to the very sensitive but let's face it, they're kind of fun to read (and write) about because they say things that sometimes, we wish we could say too.
If you don't have a lot of exposure to the Spanish-speaking world, chances are you aren't familiar with the pronunciation of some of their most common names. For example, the correct pronunciation of my protagonist Jorge Hernandez's name in Spanish is 'Hor-hay'. On the other hand, the English version is 'George'. However, if you're familiar with the Hernandez series, you already know that Jorge quickly corrects anyone who uses the Spanish version of his name. Readers often ask why a man who grew up in Mexico, using the Spanish pronunciation of his name, opts to change it to the English version?
To begin with, Jorge spent a lot of time in the US (California) when he was younger, so it makes sense that he picked up some more American habits. Keep in mind that he probably encountered many people who used the American pronunciation, so it might've been easier to go with it. You have to remember that he was with the cartel and wanted to fit into American life as best he could without standing out.
There might also be an argument that since his childhood was difficult, Jorge wanted to shed his former identity in some small way. After all, his parents named him, so changing the pronunciation might be a form of rebellion, symbolic of his separation from his family. After all, it's a touchy subject with him, which indicates a very personal reason for his insistence on English pronunciation.
As a writer, I'm slowly learning more and more about all my characters, and I wouldn't be surprised if there's even more to the story that I haven't learned yet. Some characters aren't forthcoming, and sometimes they can surprise you.
It might surprise people to learn that Jorge Hernandez wasn't always part of the Hernandez series. When I wrote the book We're All Animals (book 1), I hadn't planned a series, but merely a second book to finish the story of Chase Jacobs. However, when Jorge came along in Always be a Wolf (book 2), it was clear that I was only starting to tell his story.
Before Chase met Jorge, Diego told him that the Mexican was a 'silent investor' in their company. Up until this point, Chase had some suspicions that something sinister was taking place behind the scenes. However, being so young and inexperienced, he hadn't pinpointed the clues that he was working for criminals.
I introduced Jorge to my readers as charming, handsome (with 'movie star looks'), and very charismatic. The first impression was that he was likable, not the intimidating mob boss that we're used to seeing on television, in movies, and in books. I purposely demonstrated that he was very friendly to lure Chase in and make him feel comfortable. If this were in a fairy tale, Jorge would've been the big, bad wolf dressed up like grandma because this was how he played the game. He was a sophisticated businessman dressed in expensive suits and spoke in a polite, dignified manner. Therefore, few would think he was a bloodthirsty criminal.
There was just something about Jorge Hernandez that compelled me to continue writing. Now, ten books into the series, I can't seem to stop.
The first paragraph of a book should be inviting and yet give the reader a sense of the theme ahead. It should be catchy and provoke thought. Most of all, it should invite the reader to keep reading.
If I pick up a book and find myself confused, bored, or talked down to in the first paragraph, it is unlikely I will continuing reading. I find it very annoying when authors demonstrate themselves as writing elitists in the first paragraph, forgetting that they are trying to impress the average reader, not their university professor. Does that mean that everyday readers want books dumbed down? Of course not. However, they also want a comfortable read that is smooth and welcoming.
As an example, this is the first paragraph of my book, We're All Criminals.
Freedom is the trademark of humanity. To those in a prison cell, confined
to a hospital bed, or trapped in their figurative coffin, there is nothing
more beautiful than freedom. We’re all animals, and as such, it’s in our
nature to claw our way out of any trap we feel locked in because the light
of freedom shines much brighter after it has been lost. We will fight for it.
We will beg for it, and if we have to, we will kill for it.
No one appreciated freedom more than Jorge Hernandez. As a former
Mexican cartel leader, he had managed to escape both death and prison,
something he recognized as a rarity for his kind. Now in his 40s, he
was blessed with a beautiful family and lived in Canada. As the CEO of
Our House of Pot, Jorge had the monopoly in the legalized marijuana
industry. To the outside world, he was a charismatic Mexican-Canadian
businessman who is relatable and brought jobs to communities throughout
the country. But to those who knew him, Jorge Hernandez was one of
the most dangerous men in the world and did whatever he needed to get
what he wanted.
It's no secret that Jorge Hernandez isn't exactly crazy about Alec Athas, or the man he mockingly refers to as 'The Greek God' in the Hernandez series. The reasons are numerous, and most don't have a leg to stand on, and yet, he continues to keep control over the Canadian prime minister because he's an asset to him.
So, what's the deal? Who is Alec Athas? Let's get into some history.
If I'm not mistaken, Alec showed up in the 4th book in the Hernandez series, A Devil Named Hernandez. At the time, he was starting to think about entering politics and had asked Paige (Jorge's wife) if she would help him with his campaign if he decided to put his name in the race. As soon as Jorge learned this information, it was all over for Alec. He immediately jumped in with both feet and took over Alec's political career.
So, if Alec is the vehicle Jorge is using to make the changes he wants politically, why would there be any issues between the two men?
As it turns out, Alec is a prominent part of Paige's past. The two had a relationship in their 20s, and even though it's been many years since that time, Jorge continues to be wary of Alec's friendship with Paige. In essence, Alec is the opposite of Jorge in every way. He's the prince, while Jorge is more the evil villain. For example, Alec's intentions when getting into politics were good. Having been a social worker for many years, he felt this would be a way to make some differences that mattered. Jorge just wanted to have control.
As the series moves forward, the bitterness grows in their relationship. Often with Alec showing more attitude toward Jorge, whereas the sinister Latino never bothers to hide his contempt for Alec. The two men tend to lock horns, but in the end, Jorge always gets his way. But will it continue to be this way?
Jorge Hernandez is the leader of the pack in the dark and gritty Hernandez series. The charismatic former cartel boss has come a long way from his Mexican roots to take over the Canadian marijuana industry while infiltrating many areas in the country, from the government to the media.
A complex character, Jorge was forced to grow up quickly after the death of his younger brother, Miguel. His family became emotionally distant, ostracizing their remaining son for his accidental part in the tragedy, which forced Jorge to become stronger in his teen years. Before he was 20, this strength and his ability to emotionally disconnect proved invaluable as a criminal, which would push him up the food chain very quickly. This power grew over the years until he was the boss and his associates, in turn, became the family that he needed.
Jorge’s charismatic personality is captivating to those around him while his enemies fear the man who was called el diablo, the devil, for a reason. Many people find this character appealing because of Jorge's blatant disregard for the thoughts and opinions of those around him. He feels no need to receive approval as he powers through life, only thinking of his family and associates at any given time. Jorge is bold, arrogant, and is not shy to express his opinion when necessary. On the flip side, he shows undeniable loyalty and love for his family. Jorge Hernandez would, quite literally, do anything for the people he loves.
There is no black and white when it comes to the liability of a character; there are a lot of grey areas.
When readers were introduced to Jorge Hernandez at the end of Always be a Wolf, it seemed highly unlikely that the former cartel king was about to change. As the writer, I had no idea what was around the corner so imagine my surprise when I saw my ruthless criminal begin to show a more vulnerable, human side.
The reality is that whether we're talking about real life or the characters in a book, television, or movie, you have to consider that circumstances impact how we grow. Who's in our lives? What do they need? What is the situation with our health? Finances? There are so many things that can change who you are, but it comes down to what matters to you and your overall morals.
In this book, we learn that Jorge Hernandez is the sole parent to his daughter, Maria. This appears to be a recent change that is already starting to shift his priorities. Add in a fast-moving romance with assassin Paige Noël, and suddenly the criminal playboy has a full-time family. Although somewhat sexist early on, Jorge is forced to view women differently as the story moves forward. Later in the series, he switches gears to talk about how powerful women are and how he admires their unique traits.
Another thing to keep in mind is that Jorge is a man who's all but escaped the cartel. He still has his connections but, for the most part, is more or less out. This is extremely rare. Most people involved in the cartel lifestyle either go to prison or end up dead. Having survived and come out on the other side, he begins to recognize that he has a chance to change his life. This is powerful.
Of course, like most of us, illness or recognizing the fragility of life tends to creep in with age. Jorge has had some health scares along the way that made him realize that it might not be a vengeful enemy that takes him out but his own body. This along with losing people close to him, causes Jorge to take a step back and reconsider how he wants to spend the second half of his life since the first half was full of brutality and danger.
Characters would be unrealistic if we didn't see them evolve through time because it's not natural. However, I will say I do appreciate the journey and, even more so, the surprises.
There's a very tragic story behind how Miguel Hernandez got his name, and it's a story that tells you as much about Jorge as it does his son.
Anyone who follows the series is probably familiar with how Jorge Hernandez lost his brother. He often refers to a childhood incident when his older cousin drops by with a new dirtbike. Being a rambunctious thrill-seeker as a child, Jorge automatically decides he's going to take it for a spin. While his cousin is in the house, the twelve-year-old encourages his hesitant brother to join him on the bike, and the two take off. Unfortunately, Jorge is only mildly familiar with how to drive it, and the two end up having an accident where his ten-year-old brother dies.
Broken by this loss, Jorge finds no compassion from his own family. Instead, they blame him for this reckless behavior. His father savagely beats him while his mother looks on. Not only does his family hold him responsible for Miguel's death, but Jorge also blames himself throughout his life. The relationship he has with his parents never recovers, forcing Jorge to become stronger to protect himself. This incident gives us a better idea of why he grows into the man he becomes.
Many years later, Jorge has a son and automatically knows he must name him Miguel. He talks about how looking into his son's eyes heals him. Of course, his sense of protectiveness for both his children resulted from the horrific tragedy of his childhood. His sense of loyalty and family is also very important to him because he lacked in this growing up. In a way, the Miguel story comes full circle.
The Devil May Lie is Mima's 11th book, the 6th book in the Hernandez crime family series. In this book, former cartel kingpin Jorge Hernandez is groomed for Canadian politics. Will the Canadian political landscape ever be the same again?
In the sixth book in the Hernandez crime family series, the murder and mayhem continue. Here is the summary:
With blood on his hands, Jorge Hernandez has enforced a brutal takeover of the Canadian legalized marijuana industry. Now facing opponents who want to challenge the existing laws, the former Mexican crime lord has no intentions of backing down. His brash style and sharp tongue captivate the media while behind the scenes, those who oppose him are often met by his crime family’s ruthless style of justice.
When a heartbreaking tragedy tears through the country and whispers of racism and government neglect dominates the news, Canada’s latest media darling finds himself courted by the nationally disgraced party. He has murdered, terrorized and tortured to get to the top and now he’s being groomed to lead one of the country’s political parties.
In the latest book in this brutal series, Jorge Hernandez insists that nothing is more important than the truth…and yet, the devil may lie….
Paige Noël-Hernandez is the assassin wife of Jorge Hernandez and makes her first appearance in The Devil is Smooth Like Honey and continues throughout the series from that point on.
What I love about Paige, is that she's incredibly calm and balanced regardless of the situation. She manages to keep a little sanity to the otherwise erratic group of characters, and yet, you're left wondering if maybe she's a little too calm in various situations. I guess it's the meditation.
Paige enters the series (and meets her husband Jorge) in a unique and dramatic way. Although it's probably a situation that seems insane, for some reason, the two find themselves drawn to one another and start a very fiery, intense relationship, which dominates this series almost as much as....well, the violence. There's a strength to their relationship that can't be denied and in many ways is admirable.
Of course, if you're looking for a fairytale princess meets prince storyline, the relationship between Jorge and Paige Hernandez might horrify you.
It started with a simple concept. The first book in the series is about Chase Jacobs, the wide-eyed boy next door who finds others taking control of his life, leaving him bitter, resentful, and bringing out a dark side that no one saw coming. With his introduction to the sinister underworld in his small town, there's a sense that once Chase has opened the door, he could never turn back.
If you jump ahead to the 3rd or 4th book in the series, it might be surprising to see what a jump things had taken from We're All Animals. What starts as the story about teenage heartbreak turns into a series involving violence, corruption, and murder. I feel it's a smooth transition and one that allows you to understand how someone you'd never expect could get involved with a gang or cartel. Our lives and decisions can take us down many roads, but in the end, there's a reason why we choose them.
I've often said that this is the series that wasn't meant to be a series. However, the characters were so compelling that I had to keep writing. Who knew where it would lead me. 😈
A reader once referred to Jorge Hernandez and Paige Noël as 'the twisted couple of the literary world' but is this why fans love such an unconventional couple?
I think that once upon a time, we mostly saw 'too good to be true' couples in television and books, but somewhere along the way, we moved to the other extreme, where fictional couples appeared to have a lot of issues. Jorge and Paige are a couple that deals with problems but still manages to contain some of the 'magic' that we love to see in fictional relationships. There's a strong, almost instant connection between the two that is fascinating and yet they strive to deal with daily issues most couples have, such as dealing with children, jealousy, and worrying about your partner's safety. Granted, the latter probably is compounded by their less than traditional lifestyles.
The couple met in a very unconventional manner in my book, The Devil is Smooth Like Honey. Despite the dangerous circumstances, Jorge was immediately attracted to Paige, bolding making her aware of his feelings. Although she was hesitant, the two ended up sharing a glass of wine and had a very unexpected, whirlwind romance that quickly led to marriage. Although this isn't the kind of thing that I usually write about, there was just something so uncharacteristic about Jorge Hernandez being in this kind of situation that made me want to explore it. This storyline developed a part of his personality that countered his usual violent and heartless reputation, allowing readers to see another side of him.
As for Paige, it was interesting to see how someone calm, balanced, and yet very dangerous would react to the bold, abrupt Mexican because their personalities could've easily clashed. However, both find comfort and are fascinated by one another. Perhaps part of the intrigue is the fact that they demonstrate how two vastly different people can bond over their similarities and mutual respect, despite their many differences.
It was the series that wasn't meant to be a series! 🤦🏼♀️ However, that's fine because some of the coolest things in life happen when they aren't planned and this would be one of them.
A former Mexican narco transitions into Canadian life with family, politics, and business while holding tight to his ruthless, criminal ways. Meet Jorge Hernandez. Go HERE to watch the YouTube Playlist about this series
Starting with We’re All Animals we follow naive Chase Jacobs from small-town Alberta to the big city, where he unknowingly is employed by a group of sinister characters.
The truth slowly reveals itself in Always be a Wolf, but a horrific tragedy rocks Chase’s world, and quickly discovers that his new family will do anything for him. Anything.
Jorge Hernandez takes over as the protagonist in the third installment of the series, The Devil is Smooth Like Honey. The beloved character is bold, blood-thirsty, and always gets what he wants because he sees no boundaries. Nothing and no one stands in his way.
In A Devil Named Hernandez Jorge is muscling in on the Canadian legalized pot industry but is distracted by enemies that crop up to threaten someone he loves. Do they really want to dance with the devil?
The collusion, corruption, and murder continue right through to And the Devil Will Laugh where he successfully takes over the pot industry despite a few obstacles that get in his way…but isn’t there always some collateral damage?
In The Devil May Lie, Jorge Hernandez is groomed for Canadian politics with hopes of saving one of the major political parties after a public uproar. Will the Canadian political landscape ever be the same again?
In The Devil and his Legacy, Jorge Hernandez starts to questions his own legacy after one of his foot soldiers is murdered. He opts for a simple life but will the simple life opt for him?
In She Was His Angel, Jorge uses his political influence to cripple his nemesis Big Pharma while simultaneously backing the incriminating docuseries Eat the Rich Before the Rich Eat You. Jorge might win the battle but can he win the war?
When a cop has the nerve to show up at his door and harass Jorge in We’re All Criminals, his fury quickly ignites. While Jorge wants to exhibit his power and publicly taunt the police, his family fears that he may have pushed too far this time.
When murmurs that a tell-all book about the former cartel leader and his ruthless, blood-thirsty ways start to surface in Psychopaths Rule the World, Jorge Hernandez is in a race against time to make sure the biography never goes to press.
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 workin Loyalty Above All (there are no exceptions).
Subplots, conspiracy theories, and a cast of characters that will jump off the pages.
Loyalty above all. There are no exceptions.
I like to think this series has a bit of everything; romance, suspense, murder, political corruption, comedy (although a dark comedy, to be fair), and an unexpected family connection that you wouldn't expect. This group of people believes that loyalty is the most important thing and that you make the family you want.
A romance writer, I am not. However, you will find some love connections in a few of my books, specifically my most recent series involving a group of gangster-type personalities. This may not seem like the most natural place to find a romance, but then again, isn't that what makes things a little bit more interesting?
Someone once commented that Jorge Hernandez and Paige Noël-Hernandez were the 'twisted couple' of the literary world, and I certainly can't argue with that point. The couple hooked up in The Devil is Smooth Like Honey and have continued to be together throughout the Hernandez series. The pair didn't exactly meet most conventionally (I don't want to spoil the surprise 😉) but because of their shared attraction to depravity, their connection was a natural one.
What I love about this couple is that they are equals. Both are strong, vicious, and slightly sadistic in their ways, but there is also a soft side; Paige meditates and does yoga while Jorge has a very soft spot for his children. The couple is vastly different in personality. Jorge is loud, obnoxious, and blunt, whereas Paige is quiet and calmer, however, this is why it works. They balance each other out, yet neither feels the need to change the other. Perhaps this is why people find them so endearing.
A few months ago, I took a survey with my readers. I asked them to pick their favorite character from my books. As it turns out, there are a few fan favorites. And now, the countdown.....
5. Paige Noël-Hernandez - The only female to make the top five, Paige is a character in my Hernandez series as the wife of Jorge Hernandez. People like Paige because she is strong and assertive yet has a gentle, almost zen-like side. She enjoys meditation, practicing yoga, and is an online self-help guru. Did I mention that she's also an assassin? 🔪
4. Jimmy Groome - A blast from the past! Jimmy Groome is the self-destructive, rebellious rock star from my second book. Readers often comment how they related to him since he was somewhat of a misfit. He struggled with his share of demons, learning many hard lessons along the way.
3. Chase Jacobs - Not surprisingly, the top three characters (and 4/5 on this list) are from my Hernandez series. Chase has been a part of this series from day one. He was the original protagonist for both We're All Animals and Always be a Wolf. People love his boy-next-door profile, his need to do the right thing, but mostly, he's honest and genuine.
2. Diego Silva - This feisty character came along at the end of We're All Animals and has been along for the ride ever since. Diego is abrupt, fidgety, and carries a baseball bat in the trunk of his Lexus...you don't want to know why. 😏 This Colombian is the loyal sidekick of Jorge Hernandez and helps him with all his dirty work.
1. Jorge Hernandez - Possibly the most notorious character I've ever written about, Jorge Hernandez came along at the end of Always be a Wolf and has been the protagonist for the rest of the Hernandez series. Arrogant, abrupt, obnoxious, and calculating at times, others would describe him as a leader that doesn't let anyone or anything stand in his way. A former king in the Mexican drug world, he now strives to have power over business, politics, and the media in Canada.
Jorge Hernandez has quickly become a fan favorite for many reasons. When asked, most readers comment on several things that stand out about this character despite his devious side, (although some people seem to like that too 🤭) he has some characteristics that make him quite appealing.
To begin with, Hernandez is a bold, powerful heavyweight in the criminal world. Remember that he's survived 20 years in the cartel, which is a massive accomplishment. If Mexican news and documentaries have taught us anything, it's that the cartel life is dangerous. However, all that aside, let's look at when this character joined the gang so you can have a brief introduction.
Fans of this series will recall that Jorge Hernandez came along in the latter part of Always be a Wolf. He popped in and out of the book but essentially took over the series as the protagonists in The Devil is Smooth Like Honey. He continues to lead the series.
Fans enjoy this antihero, alpha dog character simply because he is strong, confident, and unapologetic. His loyalty lies with his close friends and family, which is something many people appreciate. He would do anything for the people he loves: literally, anything. He's very passionate about life and goes after what he wants with complete confidence that he will get it. It is probably because of this arrogant insistence that he is so successful.
Of course, he also has a surprisingly sensitive side when it comes to his family. His daughter will often tug at his heartstrings, as does his wife, which we don't expect from a gangster-type character. You know where you stand with Jorge Hernandez. He never hides how he feels.
People often ask me if they need to read my entire Hernandez series to understand my latest book. The answer is no.
To begin with, I attempt to write each novel as standalone as possible. I want people to be able to pick up the most recent book and read it with ease and no confusion. For this reason, I often refer to previous events from other books, in short, digestible descriptions. This gives the reader what they need to know without too much detail.
Essentially, I want the reader to understand the context of the book without having to wade through the previous storyline. I've done this many times and find it's the best method to keep everyone happy. It also gives them some clues to older books and maybe entices them to check them out too.
The interesting thing about this series is that the first couple of books (We're All Animals and Always be a Wolf) center on the character Chase Jacobs, who tends to be slightly naive about what kind of world he is entering. A young man from rural Canada, his eyes are slowly opened up to the crime world he has joined.
All my books since have Jorge Hernandez as the protagonist, and while Chase is trusting and gentle, Jorge is strong and defiant. It's interesting because you get to discover the contrast between the two characters, but you can finally see the flip side of the story as you enter the criminal element of the story. I love that there is a slow discovery in the series, allowing the reader to see how someone unexpected might get pulled into this dark, underground world.
Of course, I explain this much better in the accompanying YouTube video. 👇🏼
