This is a text conversation with a client today:

 

Client: Brian Ackley is great!

Me: He surely is. He’s been on my writer roster for years. Excellent and sensitive writer with a fantastic client service attitude.

He IS…I feel fortunate to have him, he’s different, if you know what I mean, and I love that. This book is personal for me. I don’t care if it only sells one copy. Not worried about the cost because the first copy is priceless to me, and if I own the only one, so be it. Thanks for working with me.

I hear from a lot of writers who want to be on my roster. When I have an opening, I choose the best. That’s not some dumb sales nonsense. It’s a fact. I want you to get what you’re paying for, and I also don’t want you calling me and screaming about a writer’s skills or attitude. Makes life easier for everyone.

Amen. He’s a keeper. I’m not patient, but I don’t want to rush his work because we’re in sync and I’m enjoying the ride. I did 32 years in the Army, but before that I was a creative. I lost and miss the ability to be creative, and this process is helping me. It’s therapeutic and restorative for an old soldier with PTSD and pride. That’s why the book means more to me than sales. I have something to prove to myself and others. I miss art and being creative. I’m not putting a price on that. This retired colonel is investing in me again. I won’t hold you, have a great evening and keep picking the great writers.

 

If that’s not an endorsement, I don’t know what is!

 

UPDATE: A text from Brian Ackley:

 

It was nice to share your blog post with my wife. She’ll tell you that I work too much and that I’m always thinking about some project, even when we’re on vacation or taking a walk. It’s not entirely true, but I am almost always on my computer, and balancing work with family time is tough. So seeing that my work means something to others makes it easier for her to accept my work habits and choice of profession. And it’s not like I brag to her every time someone says something nice about me. It’s rare that she gets to see this recognition. Thanks for sharing!