Kevin's Lesson

Samantha Culbertson is a captivating voice in contemporary fiction, whose vivid storytelling and deep-rooted connection to her Southwest Louisiana heritage have resonated with readers. Born and raised in a small, rural town of roughly 2, 000 people in the heart of Cajun country, Samantha grew up immersed in the vibrant rhythms of bayou life-family gatherings filled with Cajun music and the rich aromas of home-cooked meals. These experiences shaped her vivid imagination and natural storytelling ability, which shine through in her debut novel, Kevin's Lesson (2025). Samantha's idyllic childhood was marked by the warmth of close-knit family ties and a love for Acadian traditions. However, her life has been touched by profound loss: the sudden death of her mother in 2008, her father's passing in 2012, and the heartbreaking suicide of her sister in 2019. These experiences lend an authentic emotional depth to her writing, allowing her to explore themes of resilience, control, and personal transformation with striking clarity. A graduate of McNeese State University with an Associate Degree in Business Administration, Samantha balanced her practical education with a boundless creative spirit. Her debut novel, Kevin's Lesson: A Tale of Control and Confession, delves into the psychological tension between Kevin, his controlling mother Carolyn, and the enigmatic Elaine, set against a backdrop that subtly reflects the tight-knit communities of Southwest Louisiana. Critics have lauded Samantha's ability to craft layered characters and compelling narratives that speak to the universal struggle for self-discovery. Samantha's personal journey is one of resilience. After a 24-year marriage ended in divorce, she raised her two children, Marcus (19) and Gracie (17), as a single mother. Her experiences navigating personal challenges, including 9 months in prison and 15 months in parish jail, have given her a unique perspective on redemption and the human spirit, themes that subtly weave through her work. Despite these hardships, Samantha's storytelling remains infused with the warmth, humor, and cultural pride of her Cajun upbringing. When not writing, Samantha can be found spending precious moments with her children, woodworking, or having a good time karaoking. She is currently working on her next novel, Lost in the Bayou, where she weaves pieces of her own journey into a story of love, loss, and finding strength in the darkest places. Samantha resides in Southwest Louisiana, where the bayous and Cajun spirit continue to inspire her creative journey.