Interview with Tres Buffalo
Published 2015-04-02.
What motivated you to become an indie author?
I have serious doubts about the long-term viability of the traditional author. As an Indie author, I am able to write and publish at will, and that is very important to me. Not to mention maintaining control of all aspects of my work.
How has Smashwords contributed to your success?
Smashwords has opened markets to me that I might not otherwise been able to enter. Overall, that is a great contribution to my success.
What are you working on next?
After writing a series about a sadistic and highly successful female serial killer, Lucena Burning, I have moved into less deadly adventures. My books usually involve a trip through Florida where bizarre things happen regularly. Beyond that, I am writing a series that heads out west and has spiritual overtones.
Who are your favorite authors?
Having read thousands of books in my life, that's a tough one. I would say that right now it would be Tim Dorsey. Others include: Carl Hiaasen, Tom Clancy, Robert Heinlein, Michael Creighton, Fredrick Forsyth, Vine Deloria, Joseph M. Marshall, Mari Sandoz, and James Patterson.
What inspires you to get out of bed each day?
That's easy, the desire to write and learn.
When you're not writing, how do you spend your time?
I'm always writing, even when it appears I'm doing something else. Experiences and thoughts are always happening. I do ride a motorcycle, camp, hunt, fish, and cook. Then there is photography, I take so many photos that I forget that I am doing it and annoy people. That is until they want to reflect on their adventures. Then, I am their best friend.
How do you discover the ebooks you read?
Lately, it has been through discussions with other authors at book fairs. Places that make recommendations just add to my information overload.
Do you remember the first story you ever wrote?
Lucena Burning. I never thought that I would write a novel, but she just came out through my fingers. After that, the task was not so daunting.
What is your writing process?
I write in a linear, or chain of thought, manner. The story moves at the character's will, and I write it as it happens.
Do you remember the first story you ever read, and the impact it had on you?
Bears on Wheels! This is where I realized that I could read without assistance and haven't stopped yet.
How do you approach cover design?
I usually have a photo that fits. I take thousands of photos and usually end up thinking of one as I am writing. From there, it is mostly formatting and refinement. The photos are generally not the inspiration for the story, though. At least not consciously. Usually, music is my muse.
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