I was actually dared by a friend back in 2002 to write a fan fiction story. I have since written over 40 of those. In 2005 I was watching a western with my father and I said to myself "You can write one of these." So, that night I went to my computer and started it. Two years later, I submitted "Secrets of Burr Creek" to Publish America and it was published.
After it was published, I wasn't able to do book tours due to my father's health. I was his major caregiver and with my job there was no extra time. I managed to buy 75 copies of my book and sold all but 2 which were given away. There have been a total of 78 sold. I am happy with that but dreamed of more being sold. I think all authors have that dream.
Being a writer has not changed me in any way, other than I have made a few friends. I gave one copy to the library and many of the people who live in town have read the book and given it great reviews.
I am currently writing the continuation to the book which takes place a few years after the last book. Some of my readers what to see what happened with the characters. I guess you can say the book leaves the readers wanting more.