Per my last article on Medium, I briefly discussed what I look for in terms of choosing a book cover model, and what I had looked for in the past for Voudou Juice.

Sure, the men that are sought after have to meet certain criterion – all depending upon what “mood” I’m in, mind you – and also, you know, be willing to get creative with the style of photo shoot the theme of the book requires. Plus, they must have a kind heart and able to tell a non-verbal story that will be read by the masses.

I’m always looking for the next model to don a cover, and well, also always being on creative overdrive, I constantly have a new story concept that’s bubbling-up inside of me. There will never NOT be a story inside of me. Now, having the time to write and publish said pieces is another conversation…

The latest project I’ll be working on is a standalone novella, of course, weaving in southern Gothic folklore and duh, Voodoo and Hoodoo traditions. And the man I chose, without giving TOO much away, to don the cover is a sweet southern boy named Kent.

Not only am I honored to be working with such talent, but he and I seem to get along swimmingly, which makes the process all that much easier.

TO ALL THE OTHER YOUNG MEN THAT ARE IN QUEUE TO BE COVER MODELS, i.e. for Voudou Juice: Origins, Voudou Juice: Final Sip, and many, many others, don’t fret…your time is coming and I have NOT forgotten about you.

So, with that said and without further adieu, I’d love to finally introduce you to Kent Godley. Here’s his story…

“Hello World, My name is Kent Godley, and I am an aspiring musician/artist. I grew up in a small rural town (Smoaks), located in South Carolina. As of 2019, the population is literally between 100-150 residents. There is a whole lot of nothing to do here, and I would only suggest you retire in these here parts.

“Just like everywhere else, there are good and bad aspects of a hometown. And I will most definitely start with the good. There is more than enough peace and quiet with (some) beautiful southern scenery. You will, more than likely, see people riding four wheelers to get where they need to go.

“People often wave at each other not knowing who the other one is. Southern hospitality would be considered “rich” in small towns, but especially in mine. The downfall to living in such a small town can be linked together for many reasons, though.

“The closest major city would be over an hour away. One must travel almost thirty minutes to get groceries and so on. All in all, I would say that I enjoy living in rural town, but there just isn’t any opportunity for me here.

“I grew up listening to country music, partying at bonfires with friends and family, and waking up before the sun had risen to go fishing. The smell of Barbecue and beer would fill the air of many residents’ homes after hunters would come home to their wives/significant others. Children would gather together and play until the moon shined bright. Grandmothers would be whipping up Sunday lunch with aromas of fried chicken, freshly brewed sweet tea and cakes for days. I often still participate in outings like those mentioned, and will always cherish them. However, there needs to be a lifestyle change sometime, right?

“As told by my family, I was a ‘mess’ growing up. I had so much energy with many aspirations as a child, and quite a bit changed once I began school. I was called “gay,” not even knowing what that fully meant. I even “dated” a few girls from middle to high school.

“As time passed, I came to realize exactly what “gay” specifically meant to me. I developed a ‘closeted’ liking to the same sex with no one I thought was even remotely attractive at my high school. I was never really confronted about my sexuality, bullied, or teased because of it.

“I have always been the type of person that will tell you or reveal what I think you should know about me, if necessary. I personally do not think one’s sexuality is more important than what they have to offer as an individual.

“So, after my high school graduation, I indirectly came out as “gay” thanks to an ex-girlfriend. She was, supposedly, upset at me for breaking up with her. We’ve all been there, right? Right?

“My world was definitely shaken up, but I survived the blow just as I have survived events in my past. Some of my family members had a difficult time accepting the fact that I turned out gay, and some still cannot accept it. I have reached a point in my life where I no longer feel the need to explain myself. And my sexuality is definitely a part of it all. It’s MY story.

“Southern Tradition has ‘taught’ me many things by just simply observing. Isn’t that what people do when they aren’t the center of attention? They observe at family gatherings, weddings, funerals and so forth in many different settings. All of those events I mentioned are for the living.

“And with that said, and with every experience lived, there will forever be three sides to a story; my side, your side, and the cold, hard truth. I would like to uncover past, present and future LGBTQ+ stories that are southern in nature, based on encompassing love to those who need it the most.

“While working with Joseph on this specific project, I feel the possibilities are endless. Not everyone is as fortunate as the next, nor as smart or privileged. I would like to project my image in the form of a spiritual hologram to create a manifesto for those who are strong enough to know the truth.”

To learn more about Kent, his character or the upcoming southern Gothic thriller, you may message me here.

Happy haunting, y’all, and I’ll see you on the other side.