Weaver, AL — Local author and publisher Daniel Harrington (pen name of Daniel Alexander) is set to release his highly anticipated novel, Before It Kills Me, on December 10, 2024, through his independent publishing company Karma Creations Publishing LLC. The book promises to captivate readers with its raw and gritty exploration of ambition, addiction, and the sacrifices made in the pursuit of success.
Daniel’s journey is one of resilience, reflection, and the profound impact of those who have supported him. Raised in the Weaver area, Daniel ventured out to larger cities, but life ultimately drew him back to his hometown. His early life was marked by a fierce dedication to wrestling, beginning at the age of 15. Traveling across Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, and even Florida, Daniel faced challenges that shaped his character. “I was getting thrown around by 45-year-old men,” he recalls with a laugh. “But those experiences taught me resilience and determination, both in and out of the ring.”
Daniel married at a young age and started raising a family. This phase of his life brought its own challenges, but also valuable lessons that would go on to shape his writing. Over time, he realized he had a wealth of experiences, from his wrestling days to his personal journey, that could be turned into stories. It was during these years that he started channeling his thoughts into writing.
Despite the challenges he has faced, one constant throughout Daniel’s life has been the unwavering support of his wife, Kristy. “She’s been there for me through everything,” Daniel shares. “Kristy has been my rock, and I’m grateful for her every day.”
Another key influence in Daniel’s life was his high school English teacher, Ms. Sandra Sprague, who played a pivotal role in shaping his future. “I would carry around spiral notebooks and write for hours instead of taking notes,” Daniel remembers. “Ms. Sprague was one of the few people I would share my work with. She pushed me to make everything better, never settling for less. She kept me out of trouble and gave me the encouragement I needed to continue writing.” Daniel credits Ms. Sprague for keeping him on the right path and for being instrumental in developing his passion for writing.
Drawing heavily from his own experiences in professional wrestling, Alexander has crafted a novel that resonates far beyond the ring. Before It Kills Me follows Mason Grady, a character known by his wrestling persona “High Heat,” as he navigates the physical and mental tolls of his profession while battling addiction and struggling to redefine his sense of worth. “Wrestling serves as the backdrop,” Alexander explains, “but the heart of the story is universal. It’s about the human condition—what it means to chase your dreams, face failure, and find redemption.”
Having dedicated years to wrestling before being forced to retire due to injuries and degenerative disc disease, Daniel brings a deep understanding of the sport’s physical and mental challenges into his writing. “Wrestling taught me resilience and how to connect with an audience,” he says. “In this book, I’ve poured in all the lessons I learned, both in and out of the ring.”
Although the novel draws inspiration from the Southern indie wrestling circuit, Alexander stresses that it has a broader appeal. “You don’t have to be a wrestling fan to connect with this story. Anyone who has faced adversity or sacrificed for their goals will find something relatable here,” he notes.
The novel tackles complex issues such as addiction—not only to substances but also to the relentless pursuit of success—and explores the toll it takes on both body and mind. “I hope readers reflect on their own lives and recognize that their worth isn’t tied to achievements,” Alexander said. “Sometimes, we need to step back and appreciate the people who love us and the lives we’ve built.”
Before It Kills Me will be available in e-book, paperback, and hardcover formats on Amazon. Pre-orders for the e-book are now live for $2.99, with paperback ($9.99) and hardcover ($19.99) editions available starting December 10. Readers can access the pre-order and purchase link here.
Daniel Alexander runs Karma Creations Publishing LLC, based in Weaver, alongside his wife, Kristy. The publishing company aims to expand its efforts and provide platforms for local creatives. Stay updated with Alexander’s projects through Karma Creations Publishing LLC on Facebook or by visiting their website at Karma Creations Publishing LLC.
