Urban Reviews: Tell us about With These Hands.

Derek Vitatoe: With These Hands is an Urban Mystery novel based in the city of Detroit Michigan. It is a story of lies, deceit, and betrayal- When Brooks Tarver falls victim to all three circumstances, he is forced to deal with affliction the only way he knows how. Madeline Harris is an emerging female officer with the DPD forced to partake in an undercover operation at a local university. What can make or break her career ends up putting her in a fight against a madman with a score to settle. What happens when the two forces collide can only be told in With These Hands.

 

Urban Reviews: Where did you come up with idea for this novel?

Derek Vitatoe: I just got on the computer and began to freestyle. I remember once reading how Jay-Z could lock himself in a room for a day and create a banging CD. Now that’s rare, true, talent! I feel the same about my writing. I truly believe blessed with the gift to visualize and write whatever comes to mind.

 

Urban Reviews: How did you get into the business?

Derek Vitatoe: By contacting one of hip-hop fiction’s hottest new talents, K’wan Foye. I reached out to him for some advice and suggestions on how to get into the literary game and he was gracious enough to review my material. After that, we talked about a few things, and the rest fell into place.

 

Urban Reviews: What is the biggest challenge being a new author?

Derek Vitatoe: The biggest challenge is getting the exposure. When you personally feel you have a hit on your hands and others tell you the same, the challenge is really getting your material out there. But like anything else, it’s a grind. Eventually, I’ll be a force to reckon with in this fascinating genre, and when I do….WATCH OUT!

 

Urban Reviews: Will there be a sequel to With These Hands ?

Derek Vitatoe: Yes! The sequel is entitled Deacon’s Circle. I am excited about my next novel, even though it has been emotional for me to write this one.  I don’t want to share too much, just know that it will be controversial, and another great read.

 

Urban Reviews: Can we get a sneak peak at your next novel?

Derek Vitatoe: Naw, all I will say is it deals with the art of sex trafficking. If you have kids, you will find it to be quite touching. It really opens your eyes to the B.S. that’s going on out here in the world. Although I write fiction, the storylines have that true substance.

 

Urban Reviews: Who are some of your current favorite authors or books?

Derek Vitatoe: James Patterson and Sidney Sheldon lead the pack. The way these two authors create a storyline is amazing. It is difficult as it is to write Mystery because you hit what’s called “writer’s block.” This is when you reach a point where you don’t know the direction your story should go. In mystery, you better make sure it’s the right path or else. And the way these authors push books out, it seems as though writer’s block doesn’t faze them one bit.

 

Urban Reviews: What is the best advice someone in the industry has given you?

Derek Vitatoe: To keep writing. I think this is the biggest advice I could’ve received, especially fresh out the blocks. It’s going to take a minute to get my name out there, but when it does, I’ll already have so much fire in my back pocket that they won’t know what to do with me.

 

Urban Reviews: Is the book industry all you hoped it would be?

Derek Vitatoe: I am a newbie on the block. Thus far, it’s been a thrilling ride. I’ve learned more about myself than I ever had. Writing a novel, and finishing it, really brings out the dedication and desire out of a person. I can’t complain. Just to have someone publish my work speaks volume. Now I’m just waiting patiently to reap the fruits of my labor

 

Urban Reviews: What do you want people to know most about you?

Derek Vitatoe: Know that I write for the love of it. Yeah, everyone has the dream of hitting it big-time but the excitement of challenging myself daily to come up with a new idea keeps me grounded. I am humble and full of energy and will keep writing regardless of how others perceive my unique style. Know that I have an arsenal ready to let loose, it’s just a matter of time!!!! Till then, pick up With These Hands!