Meet Randi Samuelson-Brown | Colorado Author

We had the good fortune of connecting with Randi Samuelson-Brown and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Randi, what is the most important factor behind your success?
I honestly believe that the most important factor behind my writing successes is the State of Colorado. At the beginning of my publishing journey for the BEATEN TERRITORY (now re-released as MARKET STREET MADAM) I made a promise to the universe, that if somehow the book made it through publication, I would support every local library, museum, book group, civic group etc. that wanted me to present a history or writing presentation. To this day, I still believe that I was on to something with that notion. My ultimate goal has to preserve Colorado’s history that is fading from view. What I learned was that visiting some of these “off the beaten path” places has provided a wealth of material, a sense of community AND I’ve met so many fantastic people along the way.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’ve heard it said that of all the people who say they want to write a book, only 3% actually complete the manuscript. Out of that 3%, only 0.6% of those reach publication. Let’s say that the odds are wildly stacked against authors – especially those who are traditionally published as I am.

There are a few things that set me apart from “the herd.” One was that I pursued an education in writing – there are many fine organizations devoted to writing instruction that don’t have to break the bank. I attended Lighthouse Writers in Denver where I learned what made good writing stand apart. I learned how the industry worked. And then, I stuck with it. I attended Writer’s Conferences although that sounded frightening, and was a monetary investment. They are critical in a writer’s success because that is where the agents, editors and publishers go to find new talent. Plus you also make friends!

Many rejections come with writing. I realize my good fortune, and don’t take it for granted. But I didn’t quit and I kept moving forward. Even when that first manuscript (to this day) has not reached publication. I moved on to the second book…and that one did the trick.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
In Denver I would take them to Anschutz’s Western Art Museum is a hidden, FABULOUS gem of a place in an old historic Denver building that has served as a gambling den, a boy’s school and a brothel. It is across the street from the Brown Palace Hotel, which is also filled with history. The hotel has the Ship’s Tavern, which is a nice place to eat. The Molly Brown house is great, as is the Byers Evans House which houses the Center for Colorado Women’s History which is near the Denver Art Museum, the Kirkland Museum and the Clyfford Still Museum. If everyone is relatively fit, this circuit can be walked. Plenty of food and libations nearby. Also, the Denver Central Library has a fabulous art Collection on the 5h Floor, along with a great research collection on … Colorado history!

Central City is only about 45 minutes away with great Victorian architecture – some buildings are open to the public. Likewise Georgetown. Both are gems in Colorado’s mining heritage.

The star of Colorado is the natural beauty – a nice drive anywhere in the state reveals the character of a diverse landscape with its own character.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Oh my goodness – so many people and places! Bill Haywood Henderson at Lighthouse Writers – for his fabulous writing mentorship and teaching. The State of Colorado including the Golden History Museum, Tread of the Pioneers in Steamboat Springs, the Center for Colorado Women’s History and the Molly Brown House, Denver Public Libraries, Arapahoe County Public Libraries, Souther Colorado Historical Society in Pueblo and many genealogy and historical societies through out the state. I would especially like to give a shout-out to readers and all who work to preserve Colorado and Western history.

Website: https://www.randisamuelsonbrown.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brown_randi/

Twitter: https://www.instagram.com/brown_randi/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/randi.brown.167/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYdmyjgSnOz1BsqqZvKShBA

Image Credits
Kristen Vance Photography, TwoDot, Wolfpack Publishing