A little over a year ago was when I received my first AI-supported scam email. This one was strange but I just ignored it to start with. It was so general. ‘I’d love to hear more about your writing journey’.
On Saturday, September 27, 2025, Freida McFadden <authorfreidamcfadden@gmail.com> wrote:
Dear Andy!
I’m Freida McFadden, a New York Times, USA Today, and Amazon bestselling author passionate about crafting dark, twisty psychological thrillers that keep readers up all night. Over the years, I’ve written gripping stories filled with secrets, unreliable narrators, and shocking endings, including The Housemaid series, Never Lie, The Inmate, and more, books that have connected with readers who love fast-paced suspense and jaw-dropping twists. My newest release, The Coworker, continues that journey.Here’s a link to one of my bestselling books on Amazon:🔗 https://www.amazon.com/Housemaid-absolutely-addictive-psychological-jaw-dropping-ebook/dp/B09TWSRMCBAnd here’s my Amazon Author Page:You can also find more about my books and sign up for my newsletter at my official site: https://www.freidamcfadden.com/I’d love to hear more about your own writing journey and the stories you’ve brought to life. If you’re open to sharing, I’d be glad to check out your work as well, feel free to send over your book links, website, Goodreads, or Amazon page.A little note about me: I’m not someone who enjoys showing my face online, I much prefer to let my books and shocking characters speak for themselves. That said, I’m still very much around! I’m active on Instagram and Facebook, and I’m always available through email for connections and collaborations.Here are my links:Instagram – @fmcfaddenauthorFacebook – Freida McFadden Facebook PageWebsite – freidamcfadden.comLooking forward to connecting with you!Warm regards,Freida McFadden
And then, there’s a follow-up email.
On 29 Sep 2025, at 11:34 am, Freida McFadden <authorfreidamcfadden@gmail.com> wrote:
Dear Andy,
A couple of days ago, I reached out to introduce myself and share a bit about my work (The Housemaid, Never Lie, The Coworker, etc.) and I also asked if you’d be open to sharing your own writing journey or book links so I could check out your work as well.
I know things get busy, but the reason I’m following up is simply because I’d really love to learn more about your books and connect as fellow authors. Could you let me know if you’d be open to sharing your links or pages? Even a short reply would mean a lot.
I truly believe our exchange could be a meaningful one, not just about books, but about the stories and journeys behind them. I’d love the chance to discover your story.
Warmly,
Freida McFadden
I’m a little embarrassed that I actually replied.
Hi Freida
That’s an interesting approach, to build community among authors.
But I’m not actively writing anymore, it’s been many years, so I’ll decline your kind invitation.
Good luck with your work!
Andy
Which of course elicited another reply! In fact, two replies
Hi Andy,
Thank you so much for your message, and my sincere apologies for the delayed reply. I’ve been sorting through quite a lot these past few days, and I didn’t want to rush a response to you.
I completely understand where you’re coming from about stepping back from writing, but I have to admit, your note made me curious: what made you stop? As authors, we all go through those seasons where life pulls us in other directions, or the spark feels dimmer, but that spark rarely ever truly goes out. Sometimes it just needs the right moment or the right encouragement to reignite.
And honestly, right now is one of the best times for writers. We’re heading deeper into the winter season, the months when readers are actively seeking new books to cozy up with, discovering new authors, and diving into stories that stay with them. It’s a period when visibility naturally increases, and even previously published books get new traction. If there was ever a time to bring your work back into the light or share something you’ve written before, this is it.
You’ve already built something meaningful with your writing, enough that it’s still part of your identity years later. That alone says a lot. If you ever choose to return to it, even slowly, your words still have a place in today’s market.
Either way, I truly appreciate you taking the time to respond, and I wish you all the best in whatever creative path you continue to follow.
Warm regards,
Freida McFaddenAnd then: 9 December 2026
Hi Andy, I hope your week is off to a great start! With the holidays just around the corner, I wanted to take a moment to wish you a very Merry Christmas in advance and a joyful week ahead.I’ve been thinking of you and wondering how things have been going on your end. I’d love to hear what you’ve been up to and catch up whenever you have a moment.Wishing you warmth, laughter, and all the little joys this season brings!Freida
I finally got them to stop with this email (after some research):
Hi.
Currently, there are a large number of scam emails targeting indie authors, going out from people claiming to be Freida (and other authors). Freida will NEVER reach out to you randomly to offer marketing advice or a collaboration. Sadly, there is nothing she can do about these emails, but warns you to be careful corresponding with anyone online.