Interview with Samantha Long

Published 2014-04-15.
When did you first start writing?
I first started writing around the fourth grade. I wasn't very good then, but you've got to start somewhere, right? I've written since then, and always wanted to be a published author.
What's the story behind your latest book?
My latest book is a contemporary romance. I've never written a romance, and wanted to try. I had so much fun writing it!! The intricacies of the relationship and how they handled everything that was thrown at them was a blast to write!
What motivated you to become an indie author?
I wanted more control over what I wrote and how I wrote it. I like that the royalties are higher, and I feel that all authors should get that type of royalties. I love the fact that I can pick my own cover.
What is the greatest joy of writing for you?
That would definitely be creating something from scratch, your own world, your own characters. I love throwing events in and watching how my characters react to them. There's a type of control over the setting and the plot but seeing how the characters grow and change surprises me :)
What do your fans mean to you?
They are the reason that I publish my work. They are the reason that, even when I'm down and want to quit, I keep going. Their words of encouragement, reviews, comments make me the happiest person.
What are you working on next?
I'm working on the rough draft of the final book in the Guardian series. It will be out in Summer 2014, and it will be packed with action and suspense.
When you're not writing, how do you spend your time?
When I'm not writing I'm either reading, watching DVR with my husband, or spending time with my four kids. You can bet that they take up most of my time!
Who are your favorite authors?
My favorite authors are Nora Roberts, Kresely Cole, Tarryn Fisher, CM Doporto, and Kelley Armstrong, just to name a few. I read so much, so many different genres, that it's hard to name all my favorites.
How do you discover the ebooks you read?
I look on Amazon a lot, since I have a kindle. I also look on the facebook pages and goodreads.
Do you remember the first story you ever wrote?
The first story I can ever rememember writing was in first or second grade. It was titled "If I was an Indian". I was going to have the best teepee, the best hunter for a husband, and apparently I was having an affair with the Chief.
What is your writing process?
I like to come up with the characters and their back stories. Then I'll pick the setting, the main events, and I'll write out a skeleton outline. From there I'll write the rough draft and go back over it before sending it to my completely awesome beta readers :)
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