An Interview with Samantha Ransier

Samantha Ransier is an American author who lives in a sleepy storybook town in England. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and is working toward her Master’s. Sam has dreamed of being an author since she was first able to read and is coming forth with her first published novel: The Romance of Thanatos: The Curse of Abaddon early 2025.

Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?

When I was little, I remember having this undeniable thirst for reading. Carolyn Keene set off my adoration for reading with her Nancy Drew series. I had nearly a hundred of her books. The signature yellow spine with blue writing… It is nostalgic to me. I used to scrawl Nancy Drew-inspired writings everywhere.

What inspired you to start writing this book?

The Romance of Thanatos is very heavily based in Greek Mythology. Three kings of varying types of neuroses and reputations. Distinct realms that they were set to rule. But most of all, the Myth of Persephone has led the path toward creating The Romance of Thanatos!

Tell us the story of your book’s title. Was it easy to find, or did it take forever?

I had always loved “The Romance of the Three Kingdoms” based on Chinese dynasties and war. I wanted to focus in on that and expound upon the Greek mythos of the story. Thanatos is the personification of Death in Greek Mythology. The main character is plagued by death, but cursed with life… So I felt the name fit quite well!

If your book had a soundtrack, what are some songs that would be on it?

“Under the Graveyard” by Ozzy Osbourne. I think I listened to it on repeat once while writing it.

“The Plagues” from The Prince of Egypt. This song genuinely fueled the wartime scenes between brothers.

“Royal Flush” by Silva Hound, Mick Lauer, and Johnathan Young.

Describe your dream book cover.

I have no idea how to even describe my dream book cover. I would adore a split down the centre perspective of Thanatos before and after the curse. Foiled cover with ancient cartography in the background

What other professions have you worked in? What’s something about you that your readers wouldn’t know?

Far too many! I have worked as an early childhood educator, food and beverage service, health and social care, and now I work as a Specialist Mental Health Support Worker. I think that mental health needs to be given more attention. I want my readers to know they’re worthy of redemption (Just like Abaddon)

What books did you read (for research or comfort) throughout your writing process?

The Humans by Matt Haig. I laughed so hard that I cried and then I cried so hard. Phenomenal book.

I also read A Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl, a psychologist who created Logotherapy. It was his account of his time in concentration camps during the Holocaust and reaffirmed his fundamentals of Logotherapy.

What is one thing you hope readers take away from reading your book? How do you envision your perfect reader?

That the villains in life can be the person that everyone else loves. That you are worthy of redemption. That you are loved and you are appreciated. Your story matters, even if you feel like sharing your side is hopeless.

Are you a writer, too? Submit your manuscript to Atmosphere Press.