Interview with Samuel Morris Jr., Author of The Outbreak

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write The Outbreak?

Before I was a writer, I was a music artist. I had some success, but I decided to pursue a different creative outlet. Writing was the obvious choice for me. I love all forms of entertainment. Why not try it myself?

One of my favorite shows is The Walking Dead. I read the comics and played the games as well. I love how the zombies are a threat, but not the star of the story. The relationships between the characters are the actual stars. That was a big inspiration for how I told this story. I didn’t want to use zombies though. I wanted to do something different with the monsters and the setting. Thus, the setting for the book is 2049, with mutants that have neon blue skin, and act uniquely compared to your standard walker.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of The Outbreak, what would they be?

I wish I knew what music in 2049 will sound like. Their favorite songs in 2023 would be: James “Un-Thinkable” by Alicia Keys, Robert “How to Be a Star” by Malachiii, Sofia “Potential” by Annale, and Liam “Numb” by Linkin Park.

What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

If I had to pick two, Science Fiction and Fantasy are the genres I read the most of. However, I like good stories more than specific genres. I tried to reflect that in my storytelling. At its heart, the book is a Sci-Fi book. There are touches of horror, action, comedy, and a love story as well.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

“Apocalypse Now Now” by Charlie Human, “The Way of Kings” by Brandon Sanderson, “Dreamsongs” by George R.R. Martin, “Metro 2033” by Dmitry Glukhovsky, “Jurassic Park” by Michael Crichton, “James Moriarty, Consulting Criminal” by Andy Weir, “Invasion” by Sean Platt & Johnny B. Truant, “1984” by George Orwell, and everything J.F. Penn has written.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

There are so many scenes to choose from. If I had to pick a scene from book one, it’s the introduction of The Reapers in Chapter One. They tie the story together in many ways. My favorite scenes to write in the trilogy, however, are in book two. I can’t wait for people to read those two moments.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I put together a soundtrack of music that I write to. It fits the mood of the book. I’ve already done the same for my next trilogy. It will be a good reference for composers when they become games, TV shows, or movies. I’m speaking it into existence.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

I can do anything I set my mind to with GOD by my side.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

There are many twists, turns, and reveals in all three books. Books two and three are going through final edits as we speak. They’ll both release in 2024.

Samuel Morris Jr. is the author of the new book The Outbreak (The Survive Saga, Book 1)

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