by Ayub Munanga

It was this fear among other factors that impeded my development into a full-fledged and published author. But after reading many books, blog posts, and writing articles, I seem to have overcome this unfortunate barrier — I am much obliged to other published authors for this positive change and above all, to the author of this site.

I am on my ancient coach from where I normally write my blog, but unlike writing my blog, today I have resumed writing my book. I began writing this manuscript about two years ago, but six months down the line, the fear of failure played tricks on my mind, and I shelved the idea altogether.

I began writing this manuscript about two years ago, but six months down the line, the fear of failure played tricks on my mind, and I shelved the idea altogether.

Not a bright idea you would say, but frankly, I have been regarding writing to be a field reserved for the greats. And this misguided impression paralyzed me with an explained fear and anxiety which would have led me to forget all about it had it not been for my blogging site.

I created my blog early this year with the sole purpose of sharing my experiences, with a sprinkling of topical issues, and my knowledge in societal matters. Little did I know that my burning desire to write a book would be rekindled, and with a knife-like keenness to boot.

In January this year, when I began to establish my online identity through blogging, I did quite a bit of reading, and while at it, I read a good number of books which have been more of a catalyst and motivation than anything else.

I developed a reading habit at 14 years of age and it went on to create a desire to be a writer before I was 18. I would have probably gone on to be a writer before my thirtieth birthday were it not for the wrong turn my life took during my trying adolescent years. Well, better late than never and I am here now.

A few days ago I was going through the posts of my fellow bloggers as is my habit when I stumbled upon this invitation to guest post on this wonderful blog. I knew my time to let it be known that I am writing a book had arrived.

I have been doing quite a bit of reading, and have come to the knowledge that a great author starts from scratch; you just don’t wake up one day and become a great writer. Much work is needed, and anyone who has chosen this path and has the passion for it can become an author too.

All I need at the moment is to be a published author, nothing else matters to me. The moment I will get my foot in that door, the rest, I am sure, will be relatively manageable.

All I need at the moment is to be a published author, nothing else matters to me. The moment I will get my foot in that door, the rest, I am sure, will be relatively manageable.

The book I am writing is a thriller whose backdrop is in the woods of the western part of Kenya, on the slopes of Mount Elgon. I am likely to be through with it in September. The Sacred Vow is the title and as it suggests, the story weaves around a vow made by an ancient witch doctor
whose role was to protect his people, but the greedy nature of their neighbors changed the rules.

Born and bred around these parts of Kenya, I know my way around most communities, and it sort of makes me feel obliged to write something about it.

I hope you will be reading it soon as possible, for September is not far away.

And by the way, you may visit my blog here to see what I am up to.       

Ayub Munanga is a farmer who lives in western Kenya. He is a freelance writer, currently freelancing at Upwork. Before coming to Upwork, he worked at Kenya Writers. He loves writing, reading novels, and watching movies. He is currently writing a book which he hopes to finish later this year.

If you’re an indie author and you’re interested in guest posting on this blog, email here.