1. Where did the title Waving from the Heart, come from?
For me the title sounded rather catchy. I wrote this series of short stories over the last couple of years as a way to keeping writing. I did them for inspiration, and when I had enough of them, I decided to title them Writing from the Heart, but that title I’d seen in other publications.
2. Currently you have traditionally published projects. This book is a self-published venture. Why self-publish?
For two reasons. The first reason was because my second novel, DESTINED, schedule slipped and my last release was in October 2004. I really didn’t want to wait too long to give the readers another book. I’d started posting short stories to my website, just to give them something to read and thought, when I got enough stories I would compile them into a book. Well, that’s easier said than done. There aren’t many publishers willing to publish a collection of short stories. Hence is the second reason I decided that self-published was the route to take.
3. What did you do to find a publisher for your project?
I did a lot of research for this project. Of course a budget was the deciding factor as to when and if I would do this. I’d narrowed my choices to about two self-publishing agencies and had almost sent payment into the one I decided worked best for me when I got an email from Rose Beavers, owner of Priority Books Publications. Now mind you, Rose is a Soror, but I had no idea that she was in the publishing business. Well, of course after talking with her, I decided she would be the better fit for me. And she was willing to work with me.
4. Tell us about the some of the stories.
The stories are organized into four themes. When the Soul Speaks highlights stories meant to stroke the spirit. We often ignore the inner voice that speaks to and through us. These stories talks about how family, friends, and circumstances influence our lives. From the Heart stories are about chances at love. Touched reveals stories about everyday living and reflects on simple yet wholesome wisdom. And, It’s All About Me, acknowledges that to successfully appear radiant, vibrant, and happy, one must have inner peace and stress-free living.
5. What do you hope the reader will take away from these stories?
That life is more than living. We rush, we ignore, we forget, and we don’t take the time to really experience the true essence of life. My hope is that readers will find humor, inspiration, and motivation to live their lives to the fullest.
My goal is to share 100 stories. I’m working on several projects as we speak. I’m doing another self-publish book in the very near future. I’m also working on several other novels. I hope to see DESTINED on the schedule really soon. So stay tuned and Happy Reading!
MORE THAN A BARGAIN: QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
A Novel by Ann Clay
1.Let’s talk about MORE THAN A BARGAIN.What is this romantic novel about? MORE THAN A BARGAIN depicts the sensual reality of college love. Reggie Miles’ dream to make the Grambling University dance team wins her the attention of the most popular sports star on campus.For her, a chance to shake her thang on the football field and to snare Traekin Brook’s heart is more than she could hope for. On the other hand, Traekin, full of himself, never in his wildest dream, thought that any woman, let alone the slim dancer could turn his world inside out.But a twenty-dollar ante that he could woo her with little or no effort turns out to be more than he bargains for. 2.What does the title MORE THAN A BARGAIN mean? The meaning behind the title is twofold.First of all, things aren’t always what they seem from a glance.Traekin had no idea this young woman would make such a profound impact on his life.He wasn’t looking for love.He never thought himself capable of a love meant for marriage and family. He had no idea what he was getting himself into when he made the bet with his friend. Secondly, the hero and heroine come to understand just how priceless love is.No amount of money waged would be sufficient for what they find in the end. 3.Tell us more about your main character, Reggie Reggie is the typical sweet girl.She’s well liked by her peers and instructors.She loves dance, is loyal to friends and family, and loves deeply and unconditionally.She is smart, witty, athletic, and usually a good judge of character.However, her naivety with men gets her into trouble when she gives her heart to Traekin. 4.What issues is she dealing with? Reggie has her heart set on making the school’s dance team as well as snagging the attention of the campus superstar Traekin Brooks.In the beginning it would seem as though all of her dreams are coming true until she butts head with the dance team captain and later learn that her relationship with Traekin was built on a bet he made with his boys during dance team try-outs.Reggie also faces a tragedy destined to change her life forever. 5.What do you hope readers will walk away with after reading MORE THAN A BARGAIN Who or what inspired you to choose a career in writing? This is a compelling story about love, trust, forgiveness, tragedy, and hope. It’s a glimpse into what it means to follow your heart and believe that although you’ll make mistakes along the way, it’s all worth it in the end. . When I decided to write the story, I wanted to read something young and hip but without a lot of negative drama.I reflected back on my college days… being in band and on dance squads, and remembered what it was like to be young, struggling to get what you wanted out of the college experience, and finding that true love.The characters emerged before the story.However, I knew I wanted the story to be witty, heart-filled, and youthful.I would like readers to experience the journey this young couple takes in their quest for the forever love. What inspired me to write? I’ve always loved to tell stories.I believe I’m a professional daydreamer with an abundance of stories swimming around in my head.I wanted the opportunity to share those stories with readers of the heart.I joined my local writer’s group and started reading and learning more about the industry. 6.Who are some of your favorite authors and why? Some of my favorite authors actually work in the same genre.Francis Ray, Beverly Jenkins, Rochelle Alers, Felicia Mason, Donna Hill, Evelyn Pelfrey, Angie Daniels,and I probably can go on because there are so many great storytellers out there. 7.Where can readers find your book? MORE THAN A BARGAIN can be purchased in most bookstores.Walden, B. Dalton, Borders, and Barnes and Nobles, all carry Genesis Press novels.Books can also be special ordered through any bookstore and from Amazon.com and other on-line book services.