Hi there. My name is Scott Duffy, and welcome to my book writing log. I have documented the process of writing my last two books on this site, and have started my third. This book will be called Visual Studio Team System In Action, and should be available in 2005.

When I signed my first book contract, I noticed it had an interesting clause. I would be entitled to 20 free copies of my book when published. I had a good laugh, because I don't know where I would store all those books. Other than the few copies I could give away, I would have 15 or so books left over and my condo is too small to stash away another cardbord box.

Of course, that book hasn't yet been published, so I have been spared that particular dilemma for now.

My second book contract entitled me to 10 free books. Again, never gave much thought to it at the time. 10 was better than 20 -- less left over books to store.

Now that my 2nd book is 1 month away from being published, I have given thought once again to what to do with the free books. I have come to the realization that I might not have enough of them -- I may in fact need to purchase more to give away to people. (I am also entitled to purchase my own book at a 50% discount.)

The thing is, I earn my living primarily as a consultant. This book could be a cool gift to clients and potential clients, better than a business card. It will hopefully be something they can keep on their bookshelf at the office. My name is on the books cover and spine, and will be a regular reminder that I exist. Better than a business card, that's for sure. Hopefully, some clients (or potential clients) will see it as an impressive accomplishment -- something that sets me apart from other consultants. "Hey, he must be good. He writes books." I must say, it would be nice if that happened, although I am happy just having a book.

That's the bottom line I guess. No matter what happens from this point forward. Whether the book rockets to the top of the best-seller list or collects dust on store shelves, I am happy. Just to have started this thing and seen it through to the end. Like running the a marathon or the iron man competition, I am happy to finish at all and don't care what place I was in.

All the best,
Scott