Alphonso Williams Jr.’s childhood was immersed in positive values that have extended through adulthood. These values helped him overcome adversity whilst living in the inner city of Florida. Alphonso Williams Jr. enlisted in the military immediately after completing high school in the 90s. Finishing his enlistment with an honorable discharge, Williams’ obtained a degree in Psychology after joining the police force in the state of Florida, where he has spent twenty years in dedicated service of law enforcement and received several accolades and awards. During his early years as a police officer, Williams’ sister was murdered. This event would be the turning point for Williams’ career in law enforcement and his decision to pursue the path of a detective, providing justice to the voiceless. As a detective, Williams investigated and was able to solve high-profile murder, corruption, and government accountability cases. All of these achievements along with a Master’s in Public Administration are the scaffold to his present position as supervisor of detectives in his current agency.
Now a crime fiction debut author, Williams tells the story of law enforcement and crime from the perspective of an African American police officer and detective. His persistence in mentoring a generation of detectives and law enforcement agents who help the voiceless has birthed this resolve.
Tell us about yourself:
My name is Alphonso Williams Jr., and I am from Orlando, Florida. I am married with three kids and I enjoy reading, traveling, and watching sports. I am currently employed by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement as a Special Agent Supervisor.
Tell us the title of your book and what it’s about.
The name of my book is “Chosen by Fate: The Story of Detective Carter.” The book highlights the life of the main character, Thaddeus Carter, and his family. The book details how life and circumstances played a major factor in Thaddeus’ development and decision to become a police officer.
What was the inspiration for this book?
This book was inspired by my deceased sister Laqueta Williams whose untimely murder began my path and my mission on becoming a detective and providing justice to the voiceless.
What was the hardest part about writing this book?
Time was a challenge in writing this book. This book took approximately three years to write. My busy schedule and job made it difficult to dedicate a consistent time base to write this book. Developing my secondary characters and providing backstories were also challenging and time-consuming.
What was one thing you learned about yourself while writing this book?
If you truly dedicate yourself to anything, the sky is the limit. Regardless of how difficult the task might be, hard work and dedication will prevail in the end.
What is your favorite part of Chosen by Fate?
My favorite part of the book is the relationship and interaction between Thaddeus and his sister, Tonya. It was clear the two shared a special bond.
What made you choose to become an author?
I’ve always had a passion for writing and reading. I knew based on my career in law enforcement and personal experiences, I wanted to share my stories with the world. Everything in life is based on timing, when the opportunity presented itself (Time), I made it a priority. I knew from the beginning, I was going to write a book and dedicate it to my sister.
Why did you choose to self-publish your novel?
I strongly believe I could create a platform where the general public would want to read about Thaddeus Carter. I envision this being a five-book series.
Where can readers buy your book?
Readers can buy my book on Amazon and Lulu publishing and is available in audio, e-book, and paperback.
Where can readers find you on social media?
Readers can find me on all various social media platforms. Visit my website: www.alphonsowilliams.com and it will direct you to my social media platforms.
Audra Russell is a blogger, freelance writer, and published author. She holds two undergraduate degrees in journalism as well as a Master of Science degree in Education. She also completed the Wesleyan University online Creative Writing Specialization course series.
She is an avid reader and writer’s advocate. Her passion for promoting the works of up-and-coming authors inspired her to create her podcast, Between the Reads, as well as her website, Read It Black to Me. Her debut novel, BLOOD LAND, was published on August 29, 2020, as her fiftieth birthday gift to herself. She lives in Maryland with her husband of more than 20 years, her 3 amazing children, a 12-year-old perpetual puppy, two dueling cats, and her lone surviving chicken of 8 years who she affectionately renamed Gloria (she will survive!)
