Where my story began so many years back
As I relax in my favorite chair with a cup of coffee, working on Cold—the fourth installment in the Rebecca Watson crime thriller series—I reflect on the origins of my writing journey, which began many years ago. Becoming a writer was never my intention; rather, I stumbled into it almost by chance. My path to authorship started as a challenge from another master chief during my service in the United States Navy.
Writing didn’t come naturally to me; in fact, it always felt distant and unfamiliar. It wasn’t until 2011 that I seriously tried my hand at it. Prior to that, my time was spent watching films, playing sports, and traveling the globe with the Navy.
Although the idea of being an author had always intrigued me, I never pursued it earnestly—until one day in 2011 when Master Chief Herb Kelton encouraged me to write a book. Initially, I refused, but soon inspiration struck. One sentence led to a paragraph, which then grew into a chapter. Four months later, I completed my first draft—not perfect, but a true beginning. The next draft showed improvement yet still felt incomplete. Eventually, I secured a publisher and thought the hard part was over—but I was mistaken.
The publisher appointed an editor, launching me into the challenging, sometimes grueling process of revision. After several months of intense editing, the story that once lived only in my mind took shape as a polished manuscript.
Now, I invite you to share your own story. How did you discover your unique voice and embark on your journey toward becoming a published author?
Happy writing my friends,
James
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