Interview with Fred Townsend

Published 2015-01-26.
What motivated you to become an indie author?
I've been an avid reader my whole life, so taking up writing was the next natural step. I found as I was reading novels I was analyzing the plots, style and message. I had written a few small pieces and was often complimented on my writing skill. So it seemed like the challenge of writing a book was set before me, perhaps of my own making, but intriguing to me none the less.
How has Smashwords contributed to your success?
I started off publishing my books using Kindle. I like Amazon and enjoy my Kindle reader. To my surprise, many of my friends wanted access to my work through other avenues. Over and over I heard, "But, I have an ipad." What Smashwords offers is that freeway to all the other formats and sellers. It's an important aspect of my marketing plan.
What is the greatest joy of writing for you?
My greatest joy is when I see or hear from someone who really liked my work! Often that first comes from my proofreader and beta readers. If they aren't enthusiastic, I know I need to go back and put in some more work. The payoff to all that hard effort is reading a great review or getting an email to that effect from a reader.
What do your fans mean to you?
Everything. They're what keeps me going!
What are you working on next?
I have three books out that contain short stories or are novelettes. Some of the same characters appear in all of them. These works dovetail into a major novel I'm working on. The stories may highlight a minor character that is in the novel, or give background stories to major characters, all the information is in addition to that in the novel. Readers who read the shorter works will enjoy the same characters in the novel. Those who read the novel first can learn more about their favorite characters by reading my other works.
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