Meet L. B. Anne | Author & President of JOA Press

We had the good fortune of connecting with L. B. Anne and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi L. B., what role has risk played in your life or career?
Embracing risk is an integral aspect of any creative endeavor, especially in the realms of writing and publishing. For me, risk is not merely a potential pitfall but a stepping stone towards growth and innovation. In the world of literature, taking risks signifies the willingness to explore uncharted territories, experiment with unconventional ideas, and challenge the status quo.

In my literary journey, risk-taking plays a pivotal role. It involves navigating the uncertainty that comes with trying new narrative techniques, exploring diverse genres, and presenting unique perspectives. Without the willingness to fail, there can be no true innovation. Every rejection, every setback, becomes a lesson that propels me forward, refining my craft and shaping my voice.

In the realm of publishing, risk-taking extends beyond the creative process. It involves strategic decisions: choosing unconventional authors, exploring niche markets, and embracing new technologies. The landscape of publishing is ever-changing, and adapting to these changes requires a fearless approach to trying new avenues.

Risk taking is an inherent part of the journey to success. As an author and publisher, being unafraid to fail allows me to stay resilient in the face of challenges, to persist in pursuing artistic and professional growth, and to ultimately contribute something unique and meaningful to the world of literature.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m all about crafting stories that speak to reluctant readers and have a message of hope. The path to where I am today professionally was far from easy. My initial foray into writing faced setbacks with the failure of my first book.

Picture this: an independent author, no mentor, no coach—basically flying blind. But I had a burning passion to get kids hooked on reading, so failure wasn’t an option.

Fast forward to my second book, and reality hit hard. Bills piling up, and my husband giving me that look. I took a leap, left corporate America (note: not recommended without a solid income from writing), and told him, “Give me two years.” Those two years were a rollercoaster of learning everything about writing and publishing. Tough? You bet. But in those two years, I turned things around and went from scraping by to a six-figure income.

What I’m most proud of is the success of my best-selling, award-winning series—a Christian Fiction series that resonates with kids aged 10-16. The fact that it has become a favorite among young readers is a testament to the impact I’ve been able to make in fostering a love for reading among the audience I’m passionate about reaching.

In essence, my story is one of resilience, determination, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the world of literature, particularly among young readers. I want the world to know that despite the initial challenges, with perseverance and a genuine passion for the craft, it’s possible to turn setbacks into significant success.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
To ensure my best friend has the time of her life during a week-long visit to the area, I would kick off the mornings with an invigorating jog along Madeira Beach, setting the perfect tone for the day.

For breakfast, we would make our way to Bandit Coffee Co., where the delightful menu sets the stage for an amazing day. Given our shared love for books and food, lunch at The Library, a charming restaurant adorned with books as decor, would be a must. The unique touch of receiving the bill inside a book adds an extra layer of charm.

Come evening, we’d indulge in dinner at the Oxford Exchange, a haven for both book enthusiasts and food lovers alike. The extensive selection of books and delectable cuisine promises a memorable dining experience.

To cap off the day on an adventurous note, we’d embark on an evening kayak excursion to the St. Pete Pier with Wandering Adventures Kayak Tours, immersing ourselves in the beauty of the area.

Knowing my friend’s culinary preferences, I would make sure to explore the vibrant vegan scene in the Saint Petersburg area. Our culinary adventure would include stops at Cider Press Vegan Gastro Pub, Good Intentions, and Golden Dinosaurs, ensuring a delightful mix of flavors throughout the week.

In the Tampa Bay area, the options are truly endless, offering a diverse range of activities and experiences that cater to every interest. We love a good adventure, so exploring and embarking on a journey is always fun.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to dedicate my shoutout and express my gratitude to Dr. Loretta Faith Harris, who provided invaluable support during my early days in business, instilling in me the belief that nothing was beyond reach.

Website: www.lbanne.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorlbanne/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/l-b-anne-131303263/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorLBAnne