The book series spawned from my desire to write about the human condition – including a lack of motivation, the unwelcome feeling of loneliness, the desire to do one’s best, and the nature of quid pro quo. 

Fish Nealman – 6 September 2024

The Back Flap

Embark on an extraordinary journey of resilience and transformation in Esteban where seemingly insignificant moments lead to profound change. Born into a tumultuous family, Esteban yearns for his father’s affection but faces countless obstacles. A fateful teenage date alters the course of his life, triggering events that challenge him to the core and lead him to become a priest.

Within a demanding seminary, Esteban grapples with inner turmoil and a relentless mental illness. The specter of graduation looms overhead, until twists of fate unexpectedly grant him success.

As a newly ordained priest, Esteban’s first assignment reveals profound lessons through human interactions. Amid trials and stern admonishments, he discovers the indomitable spirit that conquers life’s ordeals, forever changing him. Esteban delves into the complexities of the human experience, portraying love, resilience, and the pursuit of growth. This poignant tale will inspire readers with hope, courage, and the strength of the human heart.

About the book

What is the book about?

The book series is about a neurodivergent individual who struggles with loneliness while searching for love. In his journey to find love, he changes the world for the better.

When did you start writing the book?

The book series was started in March 2022.

How long did it take you to write it?

The book series took eight months.

Where did you get the idea from?

The book series spawned from my desire to write about the human condition – including a lack of motivation, the unwelcome feeling of loneliness, the desire to do one’s best, and the nature of quid pro quo. The story evolved as I wrote it.

Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?

I wrote a line in the book that says, “It’s the moral of the story that counts, less so the facts.” I was giving myself permission not to worry and not to worry about struggling; to just keep going.

What came easily?

As such, nothing was particularly easy but then again, nothing about writing the book became a chore.

Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?

The characters are fictitious, but several of the circumstances in which they are involved have been borrowed from the real world. For example, my protagonist experiences turmoil every time he travels. That’s because I’ve often found my travels less than smooth.

We all know how important it is for writers to read. Are there any particular authors that have influenced how you write and, if so, how have they influenced you?

I enjoy reading Bill Bryson’s prose. His choice of words is effortless to read, and I tried to keep that feeling in mind when I put pen to paper.

Do you have a target reader?

An adult who wants to read something they’ve not read before.

About Writing

Do you have a writing process? If so can you please describe it?

When writing non-fiction, I won’t sit down to write unless I know that I can focus for two or three hours. When writing fiction, I’ll just grab any time that I have – even if it’s just five minutes.

Do you outline? If so, do you do so extensively or just chapter headings and a couple of sentences?

I don’t do an outline. I tend to write character-driven stories, so I let my characters tell me what to write next.

Do you edit as you go or wait until you’ve finished?

I enjoy editing my work. So, most of the heavy lifting is performed after the manuscript is finished.

Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?

I much prefer to work in silence.

About Publishing

Did you submit your work to Agents?

Lots and lots.

What made you decide to go Indie, whether self-publishing or with an indie publisher? Was it a particular event or a gradual process?

I wasn’t getting any traction from reaching out to an agent. As agents don’t provide a critique of your query letter, I didn’t know what they liked or didn’t like. I sought advice from multiple people. Unfortunately, the advice was always different. Everybody had their own opinion, and people rarely shared opinions.

I reached out to a hybrid publisher to get my book published.

Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?

I had a friend conjure a cover, but the publisher wanted to use their own people.

Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?

I have a marketing plan. I even execute it. But marketing is difficult to say the least.

Any advice you would like to give other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?

As the company Nike said, “Just do it.”

About You

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in North London, England.

Where do you live now?

I now live in New Jersey.

What would you like readers to know about you?

Like my protagonist, Esteban, you don’t have to be #1 to make a difference. I believe I can make a difference to the world around me.

What are you working on now?

I have a book called The Flat Tire coming out in late 2024. I hope to publish a book called Born Posthumous in 2025. And I’ve just started a new book that is as yet untitled.

End of Inteview:

For more from Fish Esteban, visit his website and follow him on Instagram, X, and Facebook.

Get your copy of The Esteban Book Series, starting with the first book, Love’s Ordeal, from Amazon US or Amazon UK.