So what’s it like being an author?

This is the most asked question I get and the hardest to be open about.
I can’t talk on behalf of all writers, but will share my experiences. Family, witness what I put into it. They see the long hours on my face and the pain in my eyes, but don’t always notice the emotional side of producing a book.
There are exhilarating highs and desperate lows. The most dominant of which will influence whether someone pursues the vocation. Balancing reality and creativity is critical, even though it’s seen as a solitary profession.

My joys come from creating the first draft when the story takes on a life of its own. The other is what readers garner from my work - there’s nothing more rewarding.

The downs are devastating. The toughest to deal with is the apathy from those close to you. I don’t expect them to read the book, but at least try.

Another crippler is the industry itself. Plagued by a predatory faction who lures authors with false promises of producing a best seller. If this were possible, why aren’t they doing so for themselves?

The secret is to never give up. Write about what matters and makes a difference. To write is everything.

Where The Birds Don't Fly