My thoughts:
1) If you didn't find me interesting before, you probably will not find me interesting now. Whether or not you will find the book interesting? Different question.
2) I was not actually carrying on a secret life. I have never been shy about admitting to wanting to be a writer, my whole life; nor in the last ten years, when asked what my hobbies were, was it rare I avoided mentioning the writing thing. Typically, if I avoided mentioning it, it was to people I was buying discount tires from. Even if they asked what I did in my spare time, I would say "reading" instead of "writing." Because... when there is a fleeting relationship with someone, do they really need to know about my hopes and dreams?
2b) I did also refuse to admit once to a cashier at Borders that I was buying writing books because I was writing. Because I was ornery that day. Also, file under "fleeting relationship." Because while I knew quite a few of my Borders cashiers by at least sight back in the day, I could tell he wasn't going to be in it for the long haul.
2c) Also, I've never brought it up with the dentist. I like my dentist just fine; however, I find that I do not wish to carry on conversations, small or large, casual or not, with people who have their hands in my mouth. Professionally, that is; you will not henceforth get me to shut up about anything by sticking your hand in my mouth. I like my current hygienist very well because she respects my boundaries.
3) While I admit that it seems quite sudden that I have become a published author, I assure you, I have been working at this diligently for a while. And have published numerous short stories. I know you think those don't count, but... they do.
3b) I have, in fact, been working at this for coming up on 10 years. Ish.
3c) Likewise, this book has been pending for like 2 years.
4) Contrary to the evidence exhibited at/by my dayjob, I do have ambition. It just wasn't dayjob-oriented.
I think that about covers it.