I felt like going the traditional route would be a waste of time. I put a lot of hard work, dedication, time, and money into this book. To seek out a traditional publisher and convince them to read my work after all that feels as if I need their approval to share my work with the world.
Sincere Jones – 16 September 2018
The Back Flap
Anquan, a man in his twenties, decides to separate from his wife Janessa after two years of marriage. His reason for doing so is simple, he isn’t happy. Can you blame him? It wasn’t what he envisioned for his life. Anquan begins to test the dating market in search for what he believes is an ideal mate: a younger more attractive woman. Children are grounds for automatic disqualification. Armed with his two chauvinistic and womanizer friends he begins his quest, but quickly discovers that finding his dream wife isn’t easy, and that he doesn’t fit the criteria of the females he’s attracted to. Feeling dejected and confused he begins to question if leaving Janessa was the right decision, and contemplates on if he should go back to her before it’s too late.
This book is an entertaining tale that explores the difference between loving someone and being in love. And tackles rejection and loneliness while simultaneously addressing real world issues pertaining to men and women’s perception of an ideal mate.
About the book
What is the book about?
The books is about a young man named Anquan. After two years of marriage Anquan has come to the conclusion that this relationship isn’t right for him, and he lists various reasons why. Of course, this upsets his wife as she does not want him to leave. She reluctantly agrees to separate. At first Anquan doesn’t want to date, but under the persuasion of his two friends he begins to see what’s out there. While dating he comes to the realization that he’s not every woman’s ideal man. This puts a major dent in his confidence to move on from his wife and he begins to question if he should go back to her.
The entire story deals with his inner conflict of finding happiness in relationships, but most importantly finding happiness within himself.
When did you start writing the book?
I started writing this book back in 2013.
How long did it take you to write it?
Way longer than it should have. I let procrastination and self-doubt prevent me from completing this project a lot sooner. Altogether, not including the professional editing process, it took me almost four years to complete.
Where did you get the idea from?
The concept was initially conceived as I was sitting at a friend’s house having a few beers. We were both bachelors at that time, discussing our latest experiences in the dating world. That’s when the proverbial light bulb went off and I said, “Hey, I should write a book about this.” At first I was going to tell my story as a non-fiction piece, possibly a memoir. However, I came to the conclusion that fiction would be way better as I could cover a broader range of topics. Plus, I figured if I told my story as is it would be too boring to interest anybody.
Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?
I honestly struggled the whole damn book. This was my first-born novel; my baby. I love writing but I had never undertaken the task of tackling such a huge manuscript before. I struggled with the creative process, the writing process, the editing, etc…. It was definitely a learning experience.
What came easily?
The easiest part was coming up with the title. As soon as I conceived this idea I knew the title was unique and original. It fits perfectly into the story I wanted to tell. Outside of that I would say the editing was somewhat easy as well. Of course, I had to have something to edit in front of me, which goes back to what was the hardest part.
Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?
Good question! The answer is yes and no. The core concept for this book came from my past experience in a relationship I had. I was married at one point in time and I wasn’t happy with the relationship, but, most importantly I wasn’t happy with myself. Everything beyond that in this story is entirely fictitious and is the result of imagination and research.
We all know how important it is for writers to read. Are there any particular authors that have influenced how you write and, if so, how have they influenced you?
George R.R. Martin, Maya Angelou, Carl Webber, and Eric Jerome Dickey are but a few authors who have influenced me. Each for a different reason of course. For example, I love George R. Martin’s novels for the precision in detail and the length. I like Carl Webber’s books because of the gritty and urban stories he chooses to tell. Both authors have two totally different styles. I feel my style captures the best of both worlds.
Do you have a target reader?
Not specifically. I believe the stories I tell is so relatable and relevant that it spans a large demographic. I don’t see the target audience being limited by age, ethnicity, or religious preferences. Anyone who is able to read and enjoy a good story would be able to enjoy my work.
About Writing
Do you have a writing process? If so can you please describe it?
I don’t have a writing process. The only thing I do is write. If I have an idea I jot it down on a piece of paper or in my phone’s notepad. This may change in the future as I’m still experimenting on what works best for me to complete big manuscripts.
Do you outline? If so, do you do so extensively or just chapter headings and a couple of sentences?
I’m currently experimenting with outlining on my next project. It’s not extensive though. I just do chapter headings and have a few sentences underneath detailing what that chapter is about. Then I go back and write, attempting to tie everything together. Right now it’s all about trying to see what works and what doesn’t in my creative process.
Do you edit as you go or wait until you’ve finished?
I try not to but it’s difficult. I’m a Virgo, and if you know anything about astrology you know that Virgos are perfectionist. I can’t stand to see grammatical errors, incomplete sentences, or phrases in the first draft of anything. This was part of my learning curve as an author because I had to learn to let go and embrace the process. If I was able to do this on my first novel I would have finished a lot sooner.
Did you hire a professional editor?
Yes, I did! I would encourage anyone who takes their writing seriously to do the same. If you want to make a name for yourself in this business it’s important to brand yourself. You only have one chance to gain a new reader. If that potential reader picks up your books and the first page they turn to is full of mistakes they may never take a chance on reading your work again. I can’t take that risk. We as aspiring authors may think we can do it all, but you’d be surprised how many times you can look over a paragraph and still were unable to catch a small error. A fresh set of eyes other than your own can do wonders for your work.
Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?
Yes!!! I guess it all depends on the scene I’m writing and the feelings I’m trying to invoke. I listen to R&B, Neo Soul, Rock & Roll, Hip Hop, Jazz, Pop, and Reggae. My favorite type of music is smooth Jazz. The tracks with no lyrics are the best because I can write a story to them.
About Publishing
Did you submit your work to Agents?
No, I self published.
What made you decide to go Indie, whether self-publishing or with an indie publisher? Was it a particular event or a gradual process?
I felt like going the traditional route would be a waste of time. I put a lot of hard work, dedication, time, and money into this book. To seek out a traditional publisher and convince them to read my work after all that feels as if I need their approval to share my work with the world. Nothing wrong seeking out traditional publishing, but I knew from the onset that it wasn’t for me.
Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?
Book cover was done by a professional based in Atlanta. The name of his company is Marion Designs. He does awesome work.
Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?
At this point I’m just winging it. With this being my first book I’m still learning. I’ve made some mistakes so far but that’s how you learn because you want to avoid making those mistakes again.
Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?
Don’t give up! Push through the self-doubt and procrastination. Underneath all your hard work and labor is a story that someone needs to or wants to hear.
About You
Where did you grow up?
I was born and raised in Bronx, NY. Relocated to South Carolina as a teenager.
Where do you live now?
I currently reside in Charlotte, NC.
What would you like readers to know about you?
That I am working diligently to bring you high quality books with awesome stories.
End of Interview:
Get your copy of Illusions of Happiness from Amazon US or Amazon UK.
