#ThisorThatThursday Author Interview with Jackiem Joyner

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I’d like to welcome Jackiem Joyner to the blog for #ThisorThatThursday!

Hardest thing about being a writer: For me, it's managing my writing career alongside my music career. I actually love writing itself—it’s the business of it that’s tricky. I'm always trying to bridge the gap between these two worlds: storytelling through words and storytelling through sound. Sometimes, it’s tough to be judged… or worse, ignored. That part stings a little.

Easiest thing about being a writer: That’s an easy one. I love writing and creating unique stories. I could go all day if I had the time. Building characters, crafting new worlds, creating impossible events—it’s all just fascinating to me. Using my imagination to create the world I want? That’s the magic right there.

Favorite places you’ve been: Japan. Hawaii. Germany. Each one inspired me in different ways—Japan for its tech and tradition, Hawaii for the peace, and Germany for the food and vibes.

Places you never want to go again: Russia. In the winter. Never again, my friend. Too cold for all this melanin.

Favorite books (or genres):

Mystery, suspense, and epic world-building stories. I’m into authors like Martha Wells (shoutout to the Murderbot Diaries) and David Baldacci—very different lanes but both masters of their game. I also loved The Martian by Andy Weir, and I’m all about stuff with a cinematic vibe—think The Fifth Element, Avatar, anything with a big world and bigger ideas.

Books you wouldn’t buy: Children’s books. I’m good on that! LOL

Most embarrassing thing to happen to you: Oh man… where do I start? My sax not working right before a show. Realizing my fly was down after talking to like 30 people. Or sending out a newsletter to thousands of fans with the wrong city on it. Been there, done that, still cringing!

The nicest thing a reader ever said to you: “Your stories really moved me.” That one hits deep. Or, “One day I want to write my own story just like you did.” That’s when you realize this isn’t just entertainment—it’s inspiration.

Craziest thing a reader ever said: “Your book Minor Assassin is too violent.”(…It’s called Minor Assassin. What did you expect? Cookies and hugs?)

Besides writing, what’s the most creative thing you’ve done? Created a full musical album. Mastered the saxophone. Produced songs from scratch. Creativity isn’t just what I do—it’s who I am.

A project that didn’t turn out the way you planned: Honestly? Zarya. But that was a good surprise. Her story took on a life of its own—I felt like I was just along for the ride. She started developing in ways I never expected, and that’s when I knew I had something special.

Same thing happens with music sometimes. You start with one idea, and it turns into something completely different. Sometimes better, sometimes… not so much. But that’s part of the ride.

Things you never want to run out of: Creativity. Hands down.

Also… grapes. Especially those dark black ones. You know the ones.

Things you wish you’d never bought: Whew. My garage is like a graveyard for impulse buys. Probably the IKEA furniture I never put together. Still sitting there like a cardboard monument to procrastination. LOL

Things you need for your writing sessions: A fresh, clear mind. Tools like Scrivener and Grammarly help a lot. I keep it focused and fluid.

Things that hamper your writing: Overthinking. Phone calls. Editing while writing (I always regret that). And not getting enough sleep. That one’s a killer.

Words that describe you: Adventurous. Creative. Passionate. Ambitious. Musical.

Words that describe you… but you wish they didn’t: Overthinker. Big-time. I’m also way too self-critical sometimes. It’s a battle.

Something you’re really good at: Playing the saxophone and writing music. That’s my home turf.

Something you’re really bad at: Being organized! I mean, I try. But it’s a work in progress. Let’s just say… Jillian helps a lot with that part. LOL