Interview with Samantha Rae

Author of The Magic of Rainbow Sherbet Frankie and Zeke

Where are you from originally and where do you reside now?

I was born in Des Moines Iowa but was raised in the south. I currently live near the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia

If you currently reside somewhere besides where you were born, what’s the story that lead from there to here?

My father was transferred to Virginia in 1972, then onto to North Carolina and Georgia, ending up back in Virginia in 1980.

What made you decide to write and publish your first book?

I have written all my life but didn’t decide to publish until 2018 when I met Tiffany Carby and Kathia Iblis. They are my biggest cheerleaders and I absolutely adore them for all their encouragement.

How would you describe your books to first time readers?

The characters are flawed but are like most people looking for a place in the world and love that protects them.

Who do you feel is most likely to connect with the topics you write about?

Anyone who has wanted that one true love to see them without their flaws and still make the choice to stay

What unexpected or surprising thing did you learn during the process of writing and publishing?

How therapeutic writing can be and how much fun I have had going through the process. How many amazing people I have met through this journey.

If you could, what advice would you give to past self yourself before embarking on this journey?

Go ahead and drop feet first and enjoy the ride.

How many people would you ideally like to reach with your books?

Doesn’t matter the amount as long as they enjoy the story and want to meet more of my characters.

What has been the biggest challenge and frustration during the process to date?

Promotion and pettiness
Promotion is difficult for indie authors and finding an audience for any indie author is a challenge. But for me it’s been the best thing I have ever done besides my kids.
Pettiness is another thing that has surprised me in the indie world. It a big world and supporting each other would do more for everyone involved instead of tearing each other down.

What’s your biggest strengths when it comes to book a) writing, b) publishing and c) marketing?

A) coming up with a story, my characters have their voices and they want to be heard
B) I’m patient. I don’t rush the process.
C) surrounding myself with a great support system

What’s your biggest weakness when it comes to book a) writing, b) publishing and c) marketing?

A) putting my words to paper
B) learning the techniques of publishing
C) finding different ways to promote and to get noticed

When do you think you will you write your next book?

My next book in My Sweet Land of Liberty is going to be released 2/29/2020. Called Kat & Landon

Are you self published or did you use a hybrid publisher, or a traditional publisher?

I publish under my indie publishing company Fiery Vision Publishing