Author Interview: Samantha Moran
- fridaynightwritesi
- Feb 27
- 15 min read
Hello, everyone! Welcome back to Friday Night Writes! As always, our goal is to shine a spotlight on members of the book community and introduce readers to awesome authors, narrators, event hosts, influencers, and more.
This week, we'd like to introduce our featured guest and Friday Night Writes host, author Samantha Moran!
Tell us a little bit about yourself. Who are you?
Well, professionally, I’m a multi-genre author primarily focused on horror, thriller, and fantasy. Everything I write involves the supernatural in one way or another because I’m fascinated by things that go bump in the night. My motto is “happily ever after is overrated” because I like my stories full of twists and mysteries. I rarely do perfectly clean endings, all tied up in neat little bows. I love a good cliffhanger or “what the f*ck” moment.
Personally, I’m a happily married mother of two amazing children and two fur babies, Sugar (aka Baby Boo) and Pumpkin Jack (aka The Menace). I live in Michigan near Kalamazoo, graduated from Western Michigan University with a degree in English and History Secondary Education (Go Broncos!), and am also an MS Warrior. I love to read, write, draw, practice tarot, play Dungeons and Dragons, and binge-watch comfort TV shows.
Oh, yeah! I also co-host Friday Night writes with my friend and fellow author, Evie Black!
What are a few of your favorite things/least favorite things?
My favorite time of year is fall because I’m obsessed with Halloween! Plus, the weather is perfect. I love salty foods (and am particularly a sucker for Doritos), sweet treats (like caramel), and all sorts of tea. I don’t drink coffee, which I guess makes me weird, but I’m okay with it. Instead, I really should be endorsed by Monster Energy Drinks at this point. It’s a problem. 😅 I am happiest when I’m curled up in bed with a book on a rainy or snowy day, especially if my husband is reading right next to me. Otherwise, I enjoy spending time on the beaches of the Great Lakes, traveling to new places, and collecting indie bookstores wherever I go. My favorite meal is an American classic: either steak and potatoes or a burger and fries. I’m easy to please!
Did you always want to be an author?
I have always enjoyed writing, but I never thought I’d be able to pursue it as a career. I can remember writing stories as early as elementary school, and I was a part of the Live Poet’s Society at my local library through middle school and early high school. By the time I graduated, I was pretty convinced no one would want to read my books, so I stopped writing. Life was busy, and suddenly I was a teacher, a mom, and a wife with no spare moments. So, that passion sat on the back-burner for a while.
If not, what did you want to be when you were a child?
I wanted to be a teacher. Actually, I went to school and earned my bachelor’s degree, then did exactly that. I loved the learning process and working with kids, but the rest of it was for the birds. I ended up leaving the profession after COVID hit. All in, I taught for seven years, and I do miss it sometimes, but changing careers was the best thing I could have done for my health, both mental and physical. Schools are petri dishes!
When did you know you wanted to be an author?
I knew I was going to pursue an author career in 2022. At the time, I was teaching for an online school so I could stay home with my kids when they needed me and still use my degree. The school paid teachers by the number of enrolled students, and by that point many had returned to traditional classrooms, so I was earning a pittance. I told my husband it felt like the universe was telling me to do something for me for once, so we put together a plan to pursue my passion, and everything took off from there. I’ve been publishing professionally for over three years now and wouldn’t change a thing!
Besides writing, do you have any hobbies? Do any of your characters share the same interests as you?
Hobbies may be a strong word. I have interests, more than anything. Hobbies require time and commitment, but my neurodivergent brain and busy lifestyle don’t offer much time for things beyond my job and family. I’ve enjoyed scrapbooking, drawing, and of course, reading. I tend to read more than fifty books a year, so I guess that’s the closest thing I have to an actual hobby. I also read tarot, which is quite fun and informative.
Do you have anything that you’re truly passionate about outside of writing? (Could be a cause, a project, etc.)
Oh, so many things. Since I have Multiple Sclerosis, I try to raise funds for Walk MS, a National Multiple Sclerosis Society fundraiser, every year. My daughter also has Neurofibromatosis, so I care deeply about that. Mental health is a huge priority in my household, so that’s something I explore frequently in my books and advocate for. I’m also passionate about helping sexual assault survivors, equal rights for all, and making a positive impact in my local community.
How long have you been writing?
Most of my life, honestly. I’ve been writing short stories and poetry since elementary school. Seriously? Probably about seven years. I’ve been a career-oriented author since 2022. The Ruin, my urban fantasy and medical thriller, took me six years to write and release. It was one of the first things I started working on with the intent to publish. I started that one after my daughter was born in 2017.
Which genres do you write in?
Supernatural horror, thriller, and fantasy. My works span from your more traditional horror, like Dealings in the Dark, to cozy horror like Apothecary of Curiosities: Volume One. Some of my books and stories are spicy, but they’re always plot-driven and spooky first. As far as fantasy, I tend to lean more toward dark fantasy or urban fantasy vibes. Everything I write has some sort of psychological component as well. Most of the time, my pieces fall into multiple genres.
Are you independently published or traditionally published? Why did you choose this route?
I am happily independently published. On the one hand, I wasn’t sure I wanted to face hundreds of rejections from publishing houses. On the other hand, I didn’t want to have to change my stories to meet anyone else’s whims. Minor changes? Sure, I can handle that. Big, sweeping changes? Nope. My stories are written as they are for a reason. So, I wanted to maintain creative control.
Indie publishing is difficult because I have to wear so many hats at the same time. There’s no marketing team and no extensive reach like the big five publishing houses have. Still, I get to set my schedule, choose my stories, design my covers, and make appearances at signings whenever I want to. I wouldn’t trade that freedom.
What do you enjoy most and least about being an author?
I love writing stories. It’s like falling into a whole different world. Sometimes, it amazes me that these characters and situations come from my mind. (I mean, I have plenty of trauma to exploit, but still.) I love traveling to new places and meeting readers. I adore hearing my children talk about how mommy followed her dream and realizing they can do that, too. It’s everything.
As far as what I don’t enjoy? Definitely marketing. I’d rather spend that time writing or chatting with readers. Plus, as soon as you think you know what to do, everything changes. It’s exhausting. Also, it’s never fun to have to prove your worth to a store just because you don’t have a big publishing house behind you. Those struggles are real, and man do they stink.
Are you a plotter, a plantser, or a pantser?
Eh, it depends on the book. Sometimes I have a vague idea of what I want to write about and just hammer the keys. Sometimes I at least map things out with bullet points. I’ve never been a true planner, though. My characters change the story too much. It feels like a waste of time to plan things that never end up happening.
Do you have any writing routines (things you do that help you write)?
Now that both of my kids are in school, I turn off the lights in my office, light a candle, shut the curtains, and settle in at my desk with a snack and drink. It has to be darn near silent for my brain to do its thing, which can be frustrating. I also need extended periods to write, which means sprints aren’t for me. Once I get going, I can’t stop, because when I do, the whole plot disappears. I blame that on my ADHD.
How do you deal with writer’s block?
Ugh, writer’s block. It’s the worst! (Seriously, ask any of my readers about Legacy of Lies! It was supposed to be out two years ago and isn’t finished. I’m sorry!)
Usually, I take a break, complain to a friend or switch stories for a while. That tends to help. Most of the time, writer’s block happens to me when I’m putting too much pressure on myself, trying to force a character to stay on script, or focusing too much on transition scenes. I figure it out as I go. It’s a whole process.
How many WIPs do you have going right now? Can you tell us anything about them?
Umm, let me count… I believe four at the moment. One is my next story in the For the Dark and Depraved universe. The title hasn’t been released yet, but if things go to plan, it’ll be a spicy, spooky Bloody Mary-inspired novella. Another is obviously Legacy of Lies. (Again, sorry guys!) I started another short story in the Apothecary of Curiosities series. I also have (full-length) book two of the For the Dark and Depraved series on the table. That one will be inspired by Sleeping Beauty.
How many books do you currently have published? Tell us about them.
As of today, six books and two short stories. I hope to have seven or eight books in total by the end of the year. Fingers crossed!
Dealings in the Dark is a supernatural horror novella about the consequences of making a deal with a demon without fully understanding the consequences. It’s a fast-paced story about a young witch, Alexandria, as she tries to escape the demon’s clutches.
Bound and Betrayed is book two in that series. It’s a supernatural horror and psychological thriller mix. This book focuses on Selena, the girl Alexandria made the deal to save, as she struggles to determine whether she is Schizophrenic, as everyone has always believed, or if she’s actually dealing with demonic possession.
Without You is a total genre shift. It’s still supernatural, but leans much more toward literary romance, which is not in my typical wheelhouse. This story is about the sudden loss of someone close to the main characters and their journey to not only accept that she has passed, but to learn to live without her. It’s heartrending, but also has one of my more hopeful endings.
The Ruin is an urban fantasy and medical thriller crossover about a young woman who is fighting the medical system to save her mother from cancer. However, she also has to pay for her ancestor’s mistakes (which could cost her so much more than she ever imagined), struggle with a broken family, and make impossible choices. It’s also heartrending, but more thrilling than Without You.
Wicked Little Rabbit is my erotic horror reimagining of Alice in Wonderland. This one is a thrill-ride of psychological damage. It’s spooky, it’s spicy, it’s traumatic, and it’s, well, "wicked." It’s definitely not the Wonderland everyone knows, but it’s the Wonderland of nightmares.
Apothecary of Curiosities: Volume One is a collection of short, cozy horror tales about the Grim Reaper. She’s cold-hearted, callous, and detached — at first. As they progress, she becomes more and more human. Of course, she’s also filled with burning rage. It’s quite a fun read.
“As Brittle As Bone” is a short story in the For the Dark and Depraved universe. This one is my take on the tooth fairy legend. It’s spicy and horrific, especially for mothers.
“Forever My Shadow” is a short story about mental health, specifically severe depression and suicidal ideation. It was my contribution to the Friday Night Writes anthology, See Me As I Am, and has now been released since the anthology is out of publication. Have tissues ready for that one.
I have another short story in the For the Dark and Depraved series releasing this June. "As Coarse As Sand" is my take on the Sandman legend. It'll be featured in the 2026 Sinful Signings charity anthology first (this March), then released to the world later.
Where do you get the inspiration for your books? Do you insert pieces of yourself and people you know into your books?
I definitely insert pieces of myself into my books. How can I not? The best stories come from places of truth, even in fantastical settings.
As far as inspiration, it can come from anywhere. Without You started because I kept staring at a Halloween decoration on my wall. Dealings in the Dark was written for my mother because she’s obsessed with the dark and spooky as much as I am. The Ruin was inspired by my grandmother’s cancer journey. Wicked Little Rabbit came from a reader’s dare.
I find inspiration in the oddest places. Then again, I never claimed to be normal. I like my weird.
Are there any other authors who have inspired you?
Too many to count.
Traditional Authors: Alexis Henderson, Darcy Coates, T. Kingfisher, Grady Hendrix, Colleen Gleason
Indie Authors: JR Erickson, Evie Black, S.A. Burd, Clarence Carter, Kennedy Sutton, Katherine Silva, J. Gabriel Gates, Kirsha Fox, Rebecca Rathe, Jamie Samland/Dirk Mourningwood, Sara Furlong Burr, the list goes on. I’m so sorry if I missed anyone!
Do you prefer standalone books or book series?
As a reader, series can be great if done well. I don’t like a lot of filler. I think I prefer standalones, but they always leave me craving more.
As an author, I keep thinking I’m writing standalones, but then I end up with interconnected standalone series. I don’t know where that puts me.
Do you have a favorite and least favorite of your characters? Why?
My favorite character is definitely Theo from Apothecary of Curiosites: Volume One. He’s sweet and adorable. I also have an affinity for my reaper, Caitlin Mor, and Selena, the main character from Bound and Betrayed. Oh, and Connor from The Ruin is inspired by my husband, so I LOVE him.
My least favorite character is Matthew from The Ruin. Seriously, that dude is the WORST! I want to also say Braxton from Wicked Little Rabbit, because he would deserve that, but he was more fun to write than others, so I guess he gets a pass for now.
My readers are most fond of Iroth from Dealings in the Dark and Allison from Wicked Little Rabbit.
What is your most popular book?
Usually, Wicked Little Rabbit because it crosses the dark romance and horror lines. That attracts many people. Plus, Alice in Wonderland is great. Though, Apothecary of Curiosities: Volume One holds its own. I love that!
Which of your books do you wish received more love than it does?
Definitely Without You. I bled on those pages, but hardly anyone reads it. It’s probably because it’s out of my typical genres, which I get, but man do I wish more people would pick it up.
How do you handle the author/life balance?
What’s balance? LOL But seriously, I don’t know. I work all the time and have to remind myself that breaks are good for everyone. With my kids in school, it makes things a little easier. I should make an effort to step away from the computer more, though. I’ve got too many deadlines to hit!
What do you do for your mental health and to recharge your creativity?
I regularly go to therapy because taking care of my mind is important. I watch TV shows and movies that bring me joy. I spend time with my husband, kids, and pets. I text friends or hangout with my local horror bookclub. Sometimes, I paint things for fun or draw little doodles. I like to try new foods and go on adventures when I can (though I’m definitely a pickier eater).
Do you have any advice for unpublished writers or people who hope to become authors?
Get out of your own way. For me, that meant accepting that just because my self-confidence sucked, that didn’t mean my stories were garbage. I kept putting them down because I doubted myself, but the truth is that we’re our own worst enemies.
Sometimes it also means making myself do the thing even when I don’t want to. That happens more than I’d like to admit. Because of my MS, I’m tired all the time. It can be hard to power through.
For others, that might mean skipping chapters or scenes, talking to someone who can assuage your fears, or becoming involved in a writing community. This job can be lonely since it’s just you and your computer screen most of the time. Find a few good friends who can help build you up and also bring you down to Earth. It helps so much!
What was your most recent five-star read?
She Writes in Red by JR Erickson.
What’s your favorite Dinosaur?
I have to go with raptor, though triceratops is a close second.
What is the best gift you have been given?
As far as what’s used most often, my Kindle, my Kindle arm, and my Kindle remote. Those things are amazing!
Sentimentally, probably the quilt my grandma stitched for me or the spoon necklace my husband gave me to help me when my MS drains all of my energy.
How many pairs of shoes do you own?
Probably about ten pairs, though I should really toss a few pairs of old sneakers.
Are you a clean or messy person?
Somewhere in the middle. I like everything neat and tidy, but having kids and pets makes that darn near impossible.
Do you collect anything besides books?
I do! Snowglobes, ghosts, bats, stickers, enamel pins, and apparently stuffed animals. I have a chair filled with them.
Do you believe in aliens? Ghosts?
Yes, absolutely. It would be arrogant of me to think that humans and earthen animals were the only living things in existence. As far as ghosts, I’ve had my share of encounters. I think they’re harmless, but they exist.
What’s your favorite ice cream flavor?
Definitely Moosetracks. It’s the best!
Which inanimate object would be the most annoying if it played loud upbeat music while being used?
My keyboard. I’d never finish another book!
What are you interested in that most people aren’t?
Apparently, I have several niche interests. Tudor England, the Salem Witch Trials, the Titanic, medieval torture devices, haunted houses… I guess those things just fit my personality. LOL
As a child, what did you think would be awesome about being an adult but isn’t as awesome as you thought it would be? Why?
Being allowed to eat whatever I want. I have such limited self-restraint! Also, owning a car. Dang, they’re expensive. Insurance, gas, repairs… Ugh.
What food have you never eaten but would really like to try?
Hmm, probably soft shell crab. It sounds fascinating, and I lived in Maryland for a year, so crab was a way of life. I never got around to trying one, though.
What would you use to survive the zombie apocalypse? Why?
I wouldn’t. I know myself well enough to be sure I wouldn’t make it very long. I’d probably wind up joining the herd while trying to protect my family.
If I had to try, though, I’d want a combination of a long-reach sharp object and short sword of some kind. That would be versatile for two-handed fighting.
Where can we find you online?
All of my links are available on my website at www.samanthamoran.net/links. I’m on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Discord, Threads, and Patreon. I’ve got other accounts, but I hardly ever use them, so I don’t bother listing them. You can also find me on Amazon and Goodreads.
Do you have any planned events?
So many! My next bookish event is Sinful Signings in Roanoke, VA. For a full list, visit www.samanthamoran.net/events.
I travel all the time and might just be in your area! If I’m not scheduled to make an appearance, I also take requests. I can’t go everywhere, but I can certainly try, and I’d love to hear from you.
Is there anything else you would like us to know?
I would absolutely love it if you signed up for my newsletter or Patreon, even the free tier! Social media is fickle and can disappear so quickly. I love my readers and want to stay in touch, even if an app is banned. So, please… Pretty please! Sign up for the Coven of Chaos? *Bats eyelashes*
I heard you're offering something special to our readers. Would you tell us a little about it?
I want to thank the Friday Night Writes readers by offering an audiobook giveaway!
If you’re chosen as the winner, you can select an audiobook of either Wicked Little Rabbit (narrated by Matt Christenson) or Apothecary of Curiosities: Volume One (narrated by Lizzie Heard). Depending on participation, I’ll choose up to five readers to win!
To enter, subscribe to my monthly newsletter and join my Patreon (free is fine, but paid tiers earn extra entries). I’ll run this giveaway through March so everyone gets a fair chance!
For a bonus entry, share this Friday Night Writes interview on your social media platforms, then email a screenshot to smoran@obsidianinkwell.com.
Are there any rules or exclusions?
Nope! I can send an audiobook to anyone, even international readers!
How can readers expect to hear from you?
I’ll announce the winner(s) in my newsletter and Patreon!
Thank you so much for joining us, Samantha! It's been a pleasure chatting with you!
To all of our readers, thanks for spending some time with our guest author this week! We hope you've enjoyed this interview! In the meantime, be sure to check out Samantha's links so you can keep up to date with her journey. Building a better, stronger community is what Friday Night Writes is all about!
Be sure to join us next week when we talk to author Evie Black!
See you soon!
The Friday Night Writes Crew
Evie Black & Samantha Moran
Friday Night Writes would like to thank our amazing sponsors: Bobbie Isabel, Rebecca Jose, Eden Knox, Kris Mitchell, LeAnn Kelley and Sammantha Selwood. Through their contributions, we are able to host interviews on a dedicated site and reach new audiences through our newsletter. Thank you!
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