Novelist Marcel Clarke chats with me today about his debut autobiographical fiction, Hiding in Plain View.
![cover for Hiding in Plain View](https://lisahaselton.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Hiding-in-Plain-View_Marcel-Clarke_Draft2Digital_1600X2400-200x300.jpg)
Bio:
Marcel Clarke, a native of Hyattsville, Maryland, is a serial entrepreneur with a unique journey to success. An honor student of the streets, he transformed his life, earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a Master of Arts in Organizational Communications. Now, he is a successful entrepreneur and real estate developer, with investments in the stock market and cryptocurrency. Marcel is also a community advocate, speaker, and mentor, dedicated to sharing industry knowledge and inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs. His first book, Hiding in Plain View, is an autobiographical account of his adventures.
Welcome, Marcel. Please tell us about your current release:
Unveiling a journey from poverty to prosperity, this inspiring tale of resilience and self-discovery charts a path through adversity, empowering readers to forge their own destinies.
Hiding in Plain View is a compelling narrative by Marcel Clarke, an entrepreneur, community advocate, and YouTube host. Marcel vividly recounts the twists and turns of his life, revealing how he became the man he is today. His story begins in the streets of Philadelphia where he discovered his fearlessness, resourcefulness, and decision-making abilities, attributes that would later lead him towards entrepreneurship and leadership.
The narrative takes a dramatic turn when Marcel is thrust into a life of poverty due to his father’s poor choices. Anger, resentment, and fear creep into his life for the first time. A chance encounter changes his life trajectory, as he moves from a comfortable suburban life to become a drug kingpin, leading to a constant struggle between his precarious environment and the pursuit of a better future.
His past, however, does not define him. Marcel decides to use the strength of his experiences to carve a new path. His journey of redemption and success is a testament to the power of discernment and an inspiration for readers to identify their passions, ignore distractions, and relentlessly pursue what truly matters.
Marcel’s story culminates in his commitment to faith, guided by an unwavering devotion to God and his family. His narrative extends beyond personal triumphs and trials, offering assurance that with alignment, financial success will follow. His story serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring readers to take control of their destiny and shape their future for the better.
Hiding in Plain View is a powerful story of resilience, transformation, and the unwavering belief in one’s abilities. It is a reminder that regardless of the obstacles one faces, the power to change lies within ourselves. It’s a compelling read that will resonate with those looking to rise above adversity and achieve success against all odds.
What inspired you to write this book?
I simply felt that it’s a story that needs to be told.
What exciting project are you working on next?
This is the only book I will ever write.
When did you first consider yourself a writer?
The moment I decided to tell my story.
![headshot photo of author Marcel Clarke](https://lisahaselton.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Marcel-Clarke-150x150.jpg)
What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
I try to write in a way that visualizes the moment.
As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
Read the first paragraph of my book.
Anything additional you want to share with the readers?
They will be inspired.