Book Publishing Secrets with Anne K. Edwards, author of 'This and That – Collection of Light and Dark Tales'

Name:  Anne K. Edwards
Book Title:  This and That – Collection of Light and Dark Tales
Genre:  Various Genres
Publisher:  First Realm Publishing
Purchase book on Amazon
Thank you for your time in answering our questions about getting published.  Let’s begin by having you explain to us why you decided to become an author and pen this book?
Anne:  I have been writing for several years and have several books published. The collection of short stories began as a for-fun activity for myself. I love new ideas that wouldn’t work out as full books, but I will follow what story they offer to the conclusion.  It’s like following a new trail you’ve never walked before to see where it leads. I enjoy writing tales with old ideas and giving them new twists. So, between books or while I’m suffering writer’s block on a present project, I will write a short tale as a change of pace. It is a remarkable way to conquer writer’s block and refresh one’s mind.
Is this your first book?
Anne:  No, I have written several others in different genres and was given credit for helping write a nonfiction book on reviewing also.
With this particular book, how did you publish – traditional, small press, Indie, etc. – and why did you choose this method?
Anne: Small Press. I chose this method because I prefer to work with a publisher instead of undertaking all the responsibility myself and I’ve always liked Internet publishing. In other words, when it comes to self-publishing, one might say I’m a bit reluctant to undertake the heavier duties it entails, like choosing the outlet for a finished work, editing, formatting of an ebook, looking for the right cover artist, and so on. Rather than make repeated mistakes in these areas, it is much better for me to rely on the experienced publisher and use their expertise.  However, on my single venture into self-publishing, I must thank a dear friend, Mayra Calvani, for her guidance and efforts to get it done. She saved me a lot of time and grief.
Can you tell us a little about your publishing journey?  The pros and cons?
Anne:  There are few publishers that publish collections of short stories.  I was fortunate to find First Realm Publishing and got permission to submit my book to them. Luckily, they were interested even though the stories are not of the same genre, length and vary widely in subject matter.  For instance, there’s a tale about a pet chicken, one about the devil outsmarting himself, and a series of tales about a detective hired by Death to solve various problems he runs into. It wasn’t a complicated journey and the reward at the end is that the book is out in ebook form which I find very satisfying.
What lessons do you feel you learned about your particular publishing journey and about the publishing industry as a whole?
Anne:  I learned to keep looking when you have a book that needs a home. I found the publishing industry is alive and growing, looking for new, adventuresome writers whose creative gifts are seeking homes. Such a trip is a reward in itself and should be undertaken with a positive outlook.
Would you recommend this method of publishing to other authors?
Anne:  Yes. The small press offers a wonderful place for authors to learn about the world of publishing and to meet the readers. It gives us a place to hone our craft and make the next book better.
What’s the best advice you can give to aspiring authors?
Anne:  Keep writing. Keep reading, Keep learning. Never give up.



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