At B&N Press, we celebrate the incredible journeys of indie authors who transform their experiences into compelling narratives. This month, we’re thrilled to
feature Ty Hutchinson, a bestselling author whose path from burnout to bestselling nomadic storyteller is as remarkable as the gripping thrillers he pens.
Ty shares how the spark of a single idea and the resilience to keep going led him to create the unforgettable FBI Agent Abby Kane series, connecting readers worldwide with tales of grit and suspense. His journey highlights the transformative power of self-publishing and the freedom it offers creators to chart their unique paths. Join us in exploring Ty’s inspiring story and the world of his electrifying books.
A guest post by Ty Hutchinson
From Burnout to Bestseller: My Journey as a Nomadic Author
In 2009, I found myself at a crossroads. Burned out from my current job, I was desperate for a new path, something that could reignite my passion and give my life a fresh sense of purpose. For as long as I could remember, I had loved traveling—the idea of discovering new places and immersing myself in different cultures always energized me. But how could I turn that passion into a career? While I searched for answers, an idea struck me: what if I wrote a book?
I didn’t have grand expectations. Writing was just an experiment, something to try while I explored my options. A year and a half later, I uploaded my first book to Barnes & Noble and waited for the sales to roll in. They didn’t.
That first book didn’t sell as I had hoped. Neither did the second or third. Looking back, it’s easy to see why. I hadn’t yet found my voice as a writer. I eventually scrapped that entire series and started fresh, determined to do better. That’s when Abby Kane came into my life.
The Rise of Abby Kane
FBI Agent Abby Kane wasn’t just a character; she was my lifeline. She was sharp, driven, and just the right mix of grit and heart. With Abby leading the way, my books began to resonate with readers in a way they never had before. She saved me from burnout.
Fast forward to today, and I’m thrilled to be releasing Rotten Gold, my 18th Abby Kane book. Over the past decade, her stories have taken me on a journey I never could have imagined when I uploaded that first book to Barnes & Noble Press all those years ago.
Writing Across the World
Since 2013, I’ve been traveling the world full-time as a digital nomad, while writing stories. From bustling cafes in Seoul to tranquil beaches in Bali, I’ve written 47 books while exploring, each new location offering fresh inspiration.
None of this would have been possible without the rise of self-publishing, and Barnes & Noble Press has been an integral part of that journey. Their platform has given me the freedom to share my work on my own terms and has connected me with readers who love thrilling, suspense-filled stories.
A Journey of Perseverance
Every author’s journey is unique, but mine is a testament to perseverance and the opportunities that self-publishing offers. Writing wasn’t the career I initially planned for myself—it was the one I stumbled into, the one that rescued me when I needed it most. And now, I can’t imagine doing anything else.
As I release Rotten Gold, I’m reminded of how far I’ve come. From the frustrated professional looking for an escape in 2009 to the nomadic author living my dream in 2024, it’s been an incredible ride. I’m grateful to every reader who has picked up an Abby Kane novel and to Barnes & Noble Press for being a partner on this journey.
Connect with Ty Hutchinson
