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Andrea Smutz
Some authors work through organized outlines, notes, rather involved research. For me, I sat at the computer and suddenly the story just flowed out. Now, I'm more prone to do the research and I do the notes but not outlines. Perhaps that is just my method, perhaps I'm just that way.
As you read my books, you'll find letters that give insight into my motivation but also my thinking. For example, I started "And The Mist Was on The Mountain" first, then just had an itch to write about the old west.
April, 2024
Some of Stannis Hopefield's adventures were not included in the books. Here, in short story format is a chance to read more about those times not included. A few are lifted from their original volumes and some are new here. In any case, more adventures and a great deal more insight into his life and those of the other characters are here to enjoy.
This may conclude the series, unless Stannis asks for more time in the saddle! Over five years were involved in this series, full of growth, introspection and adjustment. By the end, Stan is a hero in every sense of the word, willing to sacrifice for his loved ones, and motivated to help those in need.
"I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I,
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference."
Robert Frost
The Road not Taken
I've followed these words all my life and
regret none of the choices I've made. Live your life
to the fullest and regret nothing.
