Why Jorge Hernandez isn't in the first book of his own series? ☠️

I always talk about how the Hernandez series wasn't meant to be a series, so it should be no surprise that the protagonist, Jorge Hernandez, didn't show up until the second book. ➡

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. 

House of Hernandez 🎃

House of Hernandez is the 12th book in the Hernandez series; but don't worry, you don't have to read the entire series to enjoy the book! Learn about it here:

When House of Hernandez hits the shelves, readers are unaware that Jorge Hernandez’s memoir is little more than a fictional fairy tale. Then again, when you are a former cartel boss with a murderous streak and a criminal history, it’s best to keep some secrets close to your heart. 

The brash businessman has bigger things to worry about as he swims in the political waters. He has his work cut out for him when trying to get the bleeding heart Alec Athas reelected, but some days his biggest challenge is keeping the Canadian prime minister alive. While evil forces attempt to push Jorge’s political puppet out of office, they have no idea who they’re going up against in this battle. How can you fight against a man with no scruples?

With all the politics and usual drama aside, Jorge struggles as his crime family starts falling apart. Are the walls caving in the House of Hernandez, or had things already been slipping away without him being aware?

Why is my writing becoming more political? 😤 (Updated)

My first book Fire was about a rock band struggling with the pressures of sudden fame. Although I touched on a few dicey topics back then, it was nothing compared to subjects I've dealt with in my last few books. As time moves on, my subject matter tends to get more controversial. 

My motivation for becoming more political in my writing isn't because it is trendy or because I feel it might capture some attention. Like most topics brought into my books (which include racism, government corruption, Big Pharma, and more) I feel passionate about their impact on society. It's the subjects that I have strong views on that creep into my writing.

As a writer, I've always felt that what I do is observe the world and then express what I see. I think now, more than ever, it's important to create art that makes people think. It's not that I want to change anyone's opinions. I hope that through my writing, I can provoke new ideas, and perhaps some people will look at things from another perspective.

My latest few books have become political and the protagonist, Jorge Hernandez, has fascinating opinions on politics. The ironic thing is that he's a criminal, and therefore, his views are vastly different from the status quo. I have to admit that they certainly give you food for thought. And with everything going on in the world today, maybe that's not such a bad thing.