A brief writing history...
When I was younger, my parents agreed on a single philosophy, for every book my siblings and I read within the first 5 days of the week, we could rent a movie for the weekend. Any book for any film. Over the years, this nurtured a sense of appreciation for literary and Audio-Visual stories in our household.
In grade 4, I found myself rewriting these stories in an effort to save them, for the future, since the books and film had to go back to the libraries they came from. I did this so that I could re-experience the stories later when I wanted to. Soon enough, I began to recognise a rare power I had, I could change the stories, and make them my own. Change parts that I did not like, reanimate characters I felt deserved life when handed the death card. I had so much power. Then, I realised that I could create my own stories. Original stories, whose characters did what I wanted them to, and the worlds that they hailed from, my creations.
After years of trying, and creating an e-book series of raw literature, The Dissociate Series 2015. I published my first book Amir in 2018. I consult in writing and publishing solutions.
Here is a growing library of my creations, Enjoy.
No Saints
Set in a political, often dogmatic and highly polarised Nairobi, a city teeming with the ungainly, this account tells a version of the truth. La Gansalio, a powerful cult, is a proud and affecting member of the Gangs of Lalu: a new world order set to redefine the systems that define the region.
St. Clair, a high-class courtesan and a prisoner of the Gangs of Lalu, is rescued by a stranger when her companion beats her publicly, thus drawing attention to her, especially that of her long-forgotten legacy as a cult spawn. Vincent, a failed prodigy working as a debt collector for the local gangs, rescues St Clair, forfeiting his collection and setting the stage for the hound dogs to hunt him down. He seeks help from his brother, Vere, a not-so-straight policeman with secrets of his own.
The thrill of the unknown in the wonders of the spiritual, and the greys of the political class—all borderline insanity—will lead them on a thrilling chase against time into the darkest parts of the city, and the human soul.
Scars - Stedelijk Studies
I participated in Wanini Kimemiah's 2023/2024 Stedelijk x C& Editorial Fellowship, which was a brilliant experience in publishing beyond self-publishing. It was challenging and worth every drop of sweat. I chose to study scars, particularly in a time when perfection is glorified and natural beauty is criticized as outdated, ushering in a plastic world that condemns imperfection. My aim is to reveal the significance of imperfection by examining scars, their parallels to the natural world, and the value they bring to life. Scars hold stories, and stories carry meaning and purpose, especially within the African context.
Supressed Realities
My poetry debut is a poem titled Black, published as part of a powerful anthology that brings together diverse voices and untold stories. This collection delves into hidden truths, marginalized experiences, and the unseen layers of our world.
My poem is a poetic reaction to article “Reflections and lessons we can learn from echoes of slavery after 400 years.” [The Standard, 2020]
I am grateful to be one of the contributors to this remarkable anthology, curated by Lena Anyuolo, with a cover image by Sarah Kitonga.
The Burgundy
'The Burgundy' is a poignant and intimate novel that delves into the delicate themes of youth expression, particularly focusing on sexuality and abuse. Through its compelling narrative, this book offers a profound exploration of these sensitive topics, making it a must-read for parents seeking insight into the complexities of their children's experiences. As the story unfolds, readers are drawn into a world where the characters navigate the intricacies of their identities, desires, and the challenges they face. With a keen eye for detail and a sensitive approach, Sandra nekh captures the essence of youth expression in a way that is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant.
'The Burgundy' serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of understanding and supporting young individuals as they navigate the complexities of growing up. This novel is not only a compelling read but also a valuable resource for parents looking to engage in meaningful conversations with their children about these crucial aspects of life.
Eastern Butterfly
Through the lens of a jaded old-timer British journalist, Aaron 'Pelle' Carter, who embarks on a career-defining journey to Kdzigu Ety, 'Eastern Butterfly' is a fantasy novel that tells the story of a dying dynasty and youth hierarchical systems shaping the fate of two neighbouring nations that were once a formidable force in the East African region. The story follows a mulatto young man, Kasim, returning from Europe, as he grapples with finding his place in a society undergoing profound changes. Alongside him is an African princess, Lateiya, striving to carve out her identity in a society that undervalues her as a significant heir. 'Eastern Butterfly' offers a blend of fictional storytelling and contemporary nuances, shedding light on the complexities of identity, power, and the clash between tradition and progress.
This compelling fantasy novel, stocked at the Library of Congress, weaves a tale of tradition versus modernity, exploring themes of change within the intricate dynamics of power and heritage. As the narrative unfolds, readers are drawn into a world where the characters navigate personal struggles and societal expectations.
Amir
"What would you give for the woman you craved for?
'Amir' is an interracial romantic thriller set in Nairobi. It tells the story of illicit passion between Amir, an extremist on a Jihadi quest, and Iyani, a woman seeking escape from her mundane life. When Amir is ready to fulfil his duty to a cause set years before his arrival, he forgets his cue when he meets Iyani, the epitome of true innocence. Amir must adjust his plans in the hope that this new course is favourable. This gripping novel will leave you yearning for more.
Ophelia
Explore the enigmatic world of ‘Ophelia,’ a dark and captivating psychological thriller by Kenyan author Sandra Nekh. Immerse yourself in a chilling experiment set in the shadows of Nairobi, where the boundaries of human ethics are tested. Sandra Nekh’s ‘Ophelia’ masterfully weaves science, psychology, corporate conspiracy, and lust into a narrative that delves into the deepest recesses of the human mind. Uncover the mysteries of manipulation and the blurred lines between reality and hallucination in this gripping adult fiction novel. Experience the world as constracted by Ferthono.
Dissociate Series 1-3
To commemorate an upcoming rewrite, here's a glimpse into the raw makings of my creative journey as an author. My published works started with the 'Dissociate series', of which I've written two additional books. I'm in the midst of planning a modernized print version of the series. Stay tuned for more updates on these exciting revisions, and thank you for joining me on this journey into my literary evolution. Here is a glimpse of how it all began.
Sixteen-year-old Kenyan Nalia knows nothing other than the life given to her by the powerful Avakian House ran by businessman Mica Avakian. Nalia knows a luxurious life fueled by flesh trade and drug trafficking. She has reaped the rewards of this lifestyle for years and is content, but a darkness avails itself to her. Nalia runs from her home and faces new challenges in pursuit of freedom and happiness. She is haunted by memories of a dark past that threatens her almost immaculate present. She reacts to this fear by finding comfort in Kyura, a seventeen-year-old who has his own demons to tame. Both Nalia and Kyura are at a precipice. Drugs and alcohol indulgence, unfulfilled promises and a quest for change are the catalysts to the direction they take. A choice has to be made; impending doom or inviolable sanctity.
The story picks up years after the supposed death of child trafficker and Drug Lord Mica Avakian. Nalia is all grown up and goes by Nina now. Times have changed. The security she knew taken away. Her foster family gone, her real family too complex to deal with she has moved into Nairobi City to find a life with party girl and friend Tia. She finds herself intertwined in the racy life of Nairobi drug mules bartending at a local club because of her limited educational background. She also finds that the Avakian shadow still looms, she can never run too far from her troubled past.
Nandi knew life at the side of Mica Avakian, now he has to forge a new path; a pretentious path that is the cleansing of the city of Nairobi.
It has been a few months since The Avakian Prince came to Zevdi. He made a request that was snubbed. The consequences of that decision hunt Nina and Kyura; not only are their lives endangered but also those of the people about them. The folds of Nairobi seem rotten and somewhat beyond healing but with the help of a new task force; DTF, the Chief of police Swan Kipofu may have the answer to fixing Nairobi. President Faiza Wamie faces the shadows of her past decisions as they come back to bite. The choices she made then have become a bitter pill to swallow. The Avakian revenge is underway. Saiph and his crew are here to exert their revenge.