Since conception--mine, I wanted to be a writer. Okay, maybe not that early. Actually, the thought of writing my own book didn't even enter my head for quite some time. In my case, I do know which came first--the chicken or the egg. It was the romance book, not writing.

For me, it was Rosemary Rogers and Sweet Savage Love. A dashing hero and a spirited heroine who could put a man in his place with just a look from her wide, innocent eyes. I couldn't buy romance books fast enough. I found other authors--Kathleen E. Woodiwiss, Judith McNaught, Johanna Lindsey. I was hooked!

But then one day I began to see my own heroes and heroines. They wanted me to tell their story. But how could I? I'd married young--really young. I didn't have the education to be a writer. I had two small children and a husband and I lived in a small Texas town that didn't cater to the arts. Other than a supportive husband, there were members of my family who laughed and told me to come down out of the clouds. And so I did.

I got my GED and went to nursing school. I pursued a "real" career in emergency medicine--and I read my romances and I dreamed about what could have been. For ten years I pushed my dreams of becoming a published writer to the very back of my mind--until the day my son found something I'd written and told me it was really good. Then he asked why I wasn't writing. The dam of doubt began to break. Why wasn't I writing?

My husband has always said: If you want something bad enough, you can get it. He was right. It took me another seven years before I actually became published, but I never gave up again.

You can be taught grammar. You can learn all about manuscript format. You can read all the how-to books. But the one thing no one can help you with is what's deep inside you.

You have to have the heart to succeed. And you have to care enough about yourself to believe in your dreams. Because if you do, your dreams might just come true.

Good luck!

Karen Kelley

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For those visitors who are considering trying their hand at writing, or those who are already aspiring authors, Karen has posted some wonderful tips and articles on "the craft" of writing.

Please enjoy the offerings below and remember to check back for new additions!

(Click on title to view article.)

How To Be A Diva
Karen's hilarious advice to all divas-in-training.

Practice Makes Perfect
Learn just how wrong that old cliche can be!

Who Cares? 
Learn about starting your story in the nick of time!

Time Management
Hints and tips on making the time to write!

When Opportunity Knocks!
Karen's inspiring article on keeping an ear open for opportunity!

Deep Point of View
The secret of bringing your characters to life!

The Best Teacher
See what Karen has to say about how much reading can help your writing!

Help! I'm Blocked!
See what Karen has to say about getting past your writing fears and finding your creativity!

Find a Critique Partner(s)
See what Karen has to say about the importance of a good critique!

Watch Your Words!
See what Karen has to say about making beautiful music with your words!

Write Every Day!
See what Karen has to say about determination and perseverance.

Stretching The Boundaries To Another Dimension
Helpful ideas about suspending disbelief and deepening character through symbolism, action and visuals.