Your story will serve as an inspiration for the many writers here who haven't experienced the joy of publication. Like you, I've had two books published, and had the book tours and signings. I enjoyed more the work that preceded the fifteen minutes of fame.

Both of my published books were in my field of endeavor, but one was a textbook for colleagues and the other was a trade paperback for a segment of the public so I got to enjoy both markets' reactions.

The one thing that I have had difficulty getting across to some pre-published writers is the necessity for strict application of the rules of spelling, grammar and punctuation as a basis for being read by professional editors and the eye for detail and the conscious choice of wording that separates salable work from all the rest.

I hope you will join in with this wonderful group, some of whom, I estimate, to be on their way to publication - and I don't mean by vanity presses that are a rip off to all but the few who have a niche market that is "presold" on their work - like Donald Trump's first book, self published and given away a the entrance to his casinos - with many ending up in the nearest trash cans.

Welcome aboard, Judge Jimmyred!

Thanks for your kind and informative reply. You know the feeling of being able to have some success in writing. The process is so much fun. Whether you get rewards or not is secondary to be involved in the creative process which is exhilarating and good for the soul. Jim

Having worked in the legal field for a long time, and having friends and acquaintances who have earned the title of "Judge" I respectfully refer to you as Your Honor.

From a mere legal assistant to an Honorable Judge may I thank you for this encouraging post. (Are signed copies available?)

Hopefully, for some of the talented people within this group, the dream of publishing shall become a reality. The process of getting published, however, can often seem a daunting task. You make it sound easy. Do you have any secrets you would like to share?

Thanks again:)

I cannot give my novel away, as it is self-published, but for a reduce price of a hardbound ($25.00) or softcover ($15.00) and postage to you, I can send you an autographed copy of the novel. You may find that Amazon.Com or one of the online book stores now has some less expensive copies? Self publishing is not inexpensive, but I make a lot of money from my law books each year, and invested some in the novel. The novel took about 15 years to write, because I was doing many other things. I just persevered, and finished it. Getting it done and out the door has been fun. I have been interviewed on the radio four times in the last six weeks, and have had lots of press since the novel came out in October. I have been doing some book tours and that is fun also, but involves some money and time. Jim