Susan Marlene
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Short stories and also devotions that mix historical quotes and contemporary musings, as well as
​author interviews and book reviews.

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His EXTRAORDINARY DUCHESS, The Darling Duchesses Series, Book One by Regina Scott

6/7/2025

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1815 Tyneham Manor, Dorset, England 

This brand-new series, The Darling Duchesses Series by Regina Scott is stunning! The story, characters, and take-away are top-notch! It is also wonderfully linked with Regina’s series nestled at Grace-by-the-Sea. 

Tyneham Manor is about to experience upheaval caused by the mysterious new Duke, who has been strangely unavailable except through minimal written communications. When he sends an architect, Ben Warden, with orders for unique changes for the manor, suspicions, tensions, and curiosity rise in the three Tyneham Duchesses. Especially with Claudia, Dowager Duchess of Tyneham. 

The tensions and personal needs and desires of Claudia, Dowager Duchess of Tyneham, make this quite the interesting read. Favorite characters for me were Sophia and Georgie—the other Darling  Duchesses, Ben Warden, and Oliver, as well as Anastasia, the adorable pub. 

Regina captures the hindrances caused by wounds and the societal norms of the Regency era. Great interactions between the characters and a moving and unusual storyline! 

I highly recommend His EXTRAORDINARY DUCHESS, The Darling Duchesses Series, Book One, and I anticipate yet another wonderful series to emerge with characters who surprise, capture the hearts, and delight of the readers. 

Check out all of Regina's books at: https://www.reginascott.com/
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SPARK THE REVOLUTION by Multi Award-Winning author, Megan Soja

3/11/2025

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The Revolutionary period is so interesting! Megan Soga’s characters spring to life on the pages of this novel in full 1773 costumery, customs, and societal attitudes. 

 A book must be beautifully written, insightful, and adventurous for me to love it. Well, I love it! Patience and Will Abbott and Josiah Wagner’s story caused me to consider those actually living through such times of tested loyalties. How heart-wrenching to realize the division that happened or was threatened between families, friends, and neighbors. I drank in this novel, which offers so much to the reader. Not only does SPARK OF THE REVOLUTION offer colonial tensions with England, but this is a beatiful sweet romance. 

The stirring of the revolution brought so many pressures to bear on the colonials, and Megan took full advantage of the past to present a moving story thrumming with life—as though she held her finger on the pulse of the very tensions that plagued the people facing the most powerful nation on earth. 
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This story fully captures the courage, motivations, and risks that brewed hotly in 1773. I highly recommend SPARK OF THE REVOLUTION. This is a historical novel that is clean yet romantic and inspiring! If you purchase this book—happy reading!

I’m looking forward to more from Megan Soga, and I anticipate you will also. I was given a copy of SPARK OF THE REVOLUTION to review and these are my honest thoughts concerning this story! :)

You may find MEGAN Soga on her lovely website where you can discover more about this award-winning novelest. You can also sign up for her news letter and follow her on her social media sites:  https://megansoja.com/

 P.S. 
  Book Two SECRETS OF THE REVOLUTION will be released on June 10, 2025!
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DREAM TO DESTINATION, GOD'S HELP FOR ASPIRING NOVELISTS by Award-Winning Novelest, Beth Ann Ziarnik

3/5/2025

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Did you catch that writing bug? Do you have a novel simmering and stirring in your heart that begs release? DREAM TO DESTINATION is the book for you. From the conception of your idea to delivery, Beth Ann takes you step by step.

This book is like having a personal coach helping you to realize the next step. Not just how-to and what-to details are listed, but encouragement mingled with the enthusiasm one needs to complete a novel. What I just listed is encapsulated in these pages.

When I first saw DREAM TO DESTINATION, I thought I could review it for our writer’s group members. I found that I really needed direction from this award-winning author. As I went from chapter to chapter and topic to topic, I felt the inspiration rising and my knowledge increasing. I had run aground onto a dry space and felt every obstacle intensely. This book aided me to getting my train on the tracks and running again.

Something I loved about Beth Ann’s DREAM TO DESTINATION is that she included those who write slower and those who write shockingly fast. I felt there was no guilt or false expectation laid upon my shoulders. Setting up characters and getting to know them takes time. Also, setting up all the social media a writer needs whether they have a publisher or are self-publish isn’t accomplished in the blink of an eye.

Beth Ann includes a bonus—ideas for setting up a successful book launch. A lot of times writers want to rush in and publish their baby as soon as the last word is written but I agree with Beth. I recommend DREAM TO DESTINATION for seasoned writers and new to the dream writers along with everyone in-between.

DREAM TO DESTINATION is a book with a fresh look, fresh insight, fresh encouragement from one who experienced difficulties and joys through her own publishing journey. Her first book was award-winning! Bravo, Beth Ann. This will be a book I will refer to keep on track, continued encouragement, and freshly remember why and who I write for!

You may contact or learn more about Beth Ann Ziarnik and her other books at her website:  www.bethziarnik.com
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THE INDIGO HEIRESS by Award-winning, Bestselling Author Laura Frantz

3/4/2025

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INDIGO HEIRESS is a stunning novel that took me back to the 1770s, when trouble brewed in the South, and the enslaved were cruelly treated by some while others aided their rescue at great risk. But there is more, so much more. . .

When I opened Laura’s book to the dedication page, my heart leaped. She dedicated this novel to her mother. My heart sang for joy! The novel I’m working on right now is dedicated to my mother-in-law. Those dedications are so precious and full of meaning. It takes a whole novel to complete before they are able to be released to honor and express love in this way.

Other heartfelt connections caused INDIGO HEIRESS to hold a special connection for me. There is an Innes on the pages, and one of the several clans that my ancestors came from is—you got it—Innes! 😊 My grandfather was born in Glasgow, and part of the novel’s story happens there!

But more than those delightful details is the rhythm of this story as Juliet Catesby serves, struggles, and loves the family and others placed into her life at Royal Vale Plantation. Her strength gives this reader courage and inspiration. Sometimes, I’ve thought how less complicated the past would be, but the overcoming, battles, deception, and everything the 1770s people encountered made them more relatable and appreciated.

The hero, Leith Buchanan, is a complicated man, and I love to see him navigate his relationships, business deception, and hurdles. I’m thrilled to have gotten to know him through these pages. The support characters may have frustrated me, but in all the right ways to keep those pages flipping. I had a very busy schedule when the book arrived, but I consumed this moving story in two days!

Whenever Laura writes a book, I know it will be her heart bleeding on the pages. There is substance there, and I pre-order all of her latest novels and novella’s because I trust this author’s pen. Yes, she writes everything on paper first. (If I did that, the stories traipsing across my brain would be lost forever! LOL. I’d never be able to translate my scribble into legible words.)

I highly recommend this novel—all of Laura’s books, actually! I hope that you will give her a try! Many wise readers follow her closely, and I believe that reading INDIGO HEIRESS will confirm why that is! Goodness, didn't she pick the best cover! Just lovely!

You may find Laura Frantz at her beautiful website where her latest news, former novels, and social media links can be found. 

https://laurafrantz.net/

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SPARK OF THE REVOLUTION by Megan Soja's Early Release for Barnes and Noble or Kobo on ebooks for 2 Weeks LIMITED TIME

2/19/2025

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Here is an early release alert for Megan Soja's novel SPARK OF THE REVOLUTION!  I'm enjoying her novel now, and I wanted you, sweet reader, to realize that this well-written, clean, romantic historical is available for you at BARNES AND NOBLE  and KOBO right now! 
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Where can you find your copy?? I'm so glad that you asked! You will find the links for Megan's wonderful novel on her website:  https://megansoja.com/ or at the BARNES AND NOBLE or KOBO websites! 


If you prefer to read from your Kindle or purchase a paperback copy SPARK OF THE REVOLUTION will be available in two weeks! 


There you have it--or can get it online. ebook is available NOW  at those locations! 


EXCUSE ME WHILE I DIVE BACK INTO MY COPY OF MEGA'S SPARK OF THE REVOLUTION! 


If you like the American Revolution--you will love this novel!
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INTENTIONAL FIRES, Book Two of Sunrise Crik Series by Rebecca McLafferty

2/4/2025

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Rebecca gently pulled me into her tale but then snatched my concern with a memorable scene from the past that offers a firm base for the story that unfolds. Toni Stevens is a single mom who runs her tree farm and financially provides for her children, mother, and tree farm workers during a difficult time. Fires and tree theft are wreaking havoc on her land, and Toni must find the courage to discover who is sabotaging her family's future. 

U.S. Forest Service Special Agent Sam Duncan, Toni's fiancé, has a dangerous job. Not only is he trying to connect with one of his fiancé's sons, who isn't interested in accepting him, but he is actively investigating possible arson, where someone perished in the fire. As he moves deeper into the forest, he faces other dangers. Drug runners are busy protecting their products from anyone who would get in their way. 

The main characters are strong and grow stronger as they meet each new disaster and challenge Rebecca brings to life with pen and paper. The character's struggles make them feel like personal friends. The thread of family history, unity, joy, and pain makes this novel a rich read for me.  I encourage you to check it out, too. 

Characters from INTENTIONAL HEIRS, Book One of the Sunrise Crik Series, were an added adventure and delight. INTENTIONAL FIRES was well-written. The tension kept me turning pages, and the hidden reason behind everything that happened in this story took me by surprise at the very end. What a satisfying and well-researched novel. The theme of INTENTIONAL FIRES is about overcoming your past. Certainly, it is a read worth visiting and revisiting.
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Who do you trust? Who is worth trusting? Those questions circled my thoughts as I read INTENTIONAL FIRES, Book Two of the Sunrise Crik Series. I love a novel that inspires my soul and one that I can relate to. I couldn't wait to share my review of this novel with you.

Author Interview with Rebecca McLafferty
When I reviewed your interview from INTENTIONAL HEIRS, I realized how interesting those answers would be for those who stop in and visit my website for this INTENTIONAL FIRES interview! So, let’s delve into some fresh questions for Book Two of your SUNRISE CRIK series!
  
 
Question: What is your favorite inspiration for overcoming? This could be a scripture, or experience, or both! 
 
Answer: That's a tough question! There are so many wonderful verses! One of my all-time favorites is Proverbs 3:5-6. It says, 
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
And lean not on your own understanding;
In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He shall direct your paths."
 
I love that verse for multiple reasons. It reminds me that I am not in control; my God is. If I'm in the middle of something that I can't make sense of, or I've run into a roadblock, it probably means I'm trying to do something by myself. I need to turn my focus onto God for clarity, understanding, and guidance.
 

Question: Did someone you know (or read about) inspire you to create a character for this novel?
 
Answer: Yes and yes! :) I read a few years ago about a mother and daughter who were working together, trying to save their family tree farm. That idea intrigued me. With the Sunrise Crik Series being set in Montana, the venue was perfect. My husband and I had planted acres of Christmas trees on our alpaca farm, so we had first-hand knowledge about the process. I researched Christmas tree farms to make sure the details were completely accurate. I love Christmas trees! And I have great memories of searching for and cutting down that "perfect" tree. (Side note: In my cozy farm store, I kept a Christmas corner decorated year-round, a tree included.)
 

Question: What is the greatest benefit for the person who forgives someone who wronged them—in your opinion?
 
Answer: I learned years ago that a person who has been wronged is likely to experience turmoil over the situation. That angst can last the remainder of their life. The issue can become obsessive or blown out of proportion. Often, the person who did the wrong-doing has either forgotten about it or never paid much attention to the offense in the first place. When the victim forgives the offender, they remove a bitter burden from their own heart. The lifting of that burden can be life-changing.
 

Question: Why do you write novels and devotions?
 
Answer: I write so people can experience walking in the shoes of my characters. Plant Christmas trees! Climb mountain paths! Ride an all-terrain vehicle across bumpy ground! How do characters relate to one another and how do they face problems? As my characters grow in their relationship with Jesus, I pray that my readers will do the same. It is my goal that they will not only be captivated by the story's plot, but they will be reassured that God loves them regardless of their faults. God will forgive all wrongdoings and He yearns for us--His children--to have a relationship with our Savior, Jesus.
 
Question: What is your favorite drink to sip on and favorite snack that gives you energy when writing?
 
Answer: Wow, how long can this list be? Just kidding. My morning go-to is sipping coffee while nibbling on Belvita Breakfast Biscuits. In the afternoon, I switch from coffee to either herbal tea or water. I try not to snack much in the afternoon. A midday pickup might be trail mix or mixed nuts. (Disclaimer: I try not to eat chocolate until after supper, but temptations may possibly--very occasionally--come in the form of a Snickers bar.) 
 
Question: What do you love about your writing journey?
 
Answer: Almost everything! I love looking back to where I started. It truly has been a journey. Christian friends have grown together, nurturing our writing passion and developing into lifelong friendships. I've learned through writers' groups, conferences, and hands-on experience. God has always been my rock, opening doors and closing others. The only thing better than worshipping God is worshipping Him with like-minded writers! I love learning and when something new is a challenge, and then it works--whaala! That's a great feeling. I'm excited about what lies ahead and what impact we will make.
 
Thank you so much for allowing me this author interview. It's been such fun!

 
Rebecca, thank you for taking the time to share such a wonderful interview!

Here is my review link for INTENTIONAL HEIRS, Book One of the Sunrise Crik series:
You will want to really check out the author interview following my book review of INTENTIONAL HEIRS! 

http://www.susanmarlene.com/book-review--author-interview/archives/06-2020

You may find out more about Rebecca McLafferty and be advised of her next novel offerings at:

https://mclaffertyenterprises.com/books/
https://www.facebook.com/author.rebecca.mclafferty

P.S. Such a perfect cover by Roseanna White Designs 

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THE HUNTRESS OF THE CITADEL, BONDED REALS, Book Three by Regan Allen

1/12/2025

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Sweet. HUNTRESS OF THE CITADEL is the sweetest of the Bonded Realms stories. Yes, I've been given this book to review, and I never take on books unless I'm absolutely sure I will love them. Regan Allen met my expectations and exceeded them too! Let me tell you why. 

Because her characters melted my heart. The storyline kept me turning pages, concerned, and intrigued. Regan has the marvelous ability to use this unique fantasy world and the cultures to afford room for her characters to interact, struggle, and grow. Regan's characters practically breathe on the pages, and their struggles and concerns are relatable. I love that in characters. Strong, unique, and courageous characters are a must for me to love a story. I've read the whole series so far, and I  recommend them by word of mouth. HUNTRESS OF THE CITADEL is hot off the pages and freshly published and I've already been telling others about this wonderful read.
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This fantasy world holds charm, warmth, and danger. I love wandering around through these pages. I feel as though I'm somewhere special, like the AVITAR movies! The cultures are so different from one other making them interesting and ripe for conflict! Oh, I love conflict in a story! (So much better than real-life conflict!) 

I do hope for more in this series. Fantasy has not been my go-to genre to read, but the fullness of these pages with a story that matters keeps me glued to the pages and wanting more. Suprise and humor are weaved in just for a touch of delightfulness. 

A review for Regan Allen's FREE prequel, SEER OF THE WILDWOOD may be found on my website: 
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http://www.susanmarlene.com/book-review--author-interview/archives/08-2024

http://www.susanmarlene.com/book-review--author-interview/princess-of-the-shadows-by-regan-allen

You may find Regan Allen at:
 https://reganallenbooks.com/
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WHITE BIRD a wonder story  PG

1/10/2025

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WHITE BIRD a wonder story Movie PG 13

​I received this movie as a Christmas present. What a wonderful family movie that inspires kindness. The grandma, played by Helen Mirren, tells her experience of when she was young and hiding from Nazis in France during WW II. The grandson needs to hear this story.

Long ago, a young boy risked all to be kind to a girl. This beautiful story unfolds in the midst of tragedy and terrible danger. I absolutely loved the tale and have been telling my friends about it! 
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The BRITISH BOOKSELLERS by Kristy Cambron

1/9/2025

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The British Book Sellers by Kristy Cambron
I’ve just begun to read Kristy Cambron’s novels. She is an excellent author who pulls you into her stories with exquisite skill. THE BRITISH BOOK SELLERS was inspired by the Blitz bombings and the incredible courage of the people who lived through such calamitous times. This historical spans from before WW I into WW II and is unique in the storyline for the heroine and hero.


I found Charlotte Terrington, Amos Darby, the future Earl of Harcourt, and several more characters to be peel-off-the-page realistic. This beautiful story, weaved with dark tragedies and happy overcoming is a worthy read. Inspiring, page-turning, and memorable—I highly recommend this read.


 On a personal note, my parents lived during WW II, and I couldn’t help but think about what they were hearing on the news and experiencing at the time. Though my parents lived in America, England experienced frightening and deadly attacks from Hitler’s Air Force.
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I invite you to check out her website:
https://kristycambron.com/
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THE WENDEL CASE, Milford Falls Mysteries Series Prequel, by S.E. Grosskopf

12/14/2024

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This 50-page prequel sets up a detective story series based in the 1930s. Yes, this introduction to the characters and the fast-paced, riveting crime mysteries is a tale all of its own' though not a required read—I'm so glad that I did. Characters like Lowan, Lieutenant Marx, Miss Rita Nenning, and some others will be repeat players in these historically focused crime adventures. 

And THE WENDEL CASE, Milford Falls Mysteries Series Prequel is FREE! Here is S.E. Grosskopf's website information. One merely signs up for the newsletter for this great kick-off to a 1930s crime series that keeps you on the page.  You may find out more on the author's website pages. Here is the precise information that you need to check out the prequel.  segrosskopf.com/prequel

Each book after the prequel has around 100 pages of detective genius, and S.E. Grosskopf keeps in the original style that was so popular in the 1930s but adds an interesting alien in the mix. I anticipate this will be quite the popular series in the 2020s and beyond. The twists and turns and surprises confined in the breath of 100 pages will be small enough to captivate book lovers with busy schedules—yet large enough to give the reader (this reader, certainly) a satisfying trot through pages that engage attention and senses! 
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This is a highly recommended alert for a new author on the block who writes with seasoned skill and intuition for what 1930s detective story readers want. 

​Great read for men, women, and teens!
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    Susan Marlene is the author of Sisters & Friends, HEARTS FOREVER FAITHFUL and SHORT STORIES, Some Fanciful, Some True, A Collection from Various Time Periods & Adventurous Tales, as well as ​Splashes of Hope, A Trio of Short Stories.

    She has published in these venues also. 

    www.ChristianDevotions.us and in Splickety Love Magazine, The Novice, and  newspapers. She writes devotions, fiction, and nonfiction. She is a member and co-founder of Pens of Praise Christian Writers 
    Group.  She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW).

    ​She speaks at writers' groups and prepares devotions and teachings often for Pens of Praise Christian Writers,  and was a former member of Jerry Jenkins Writers Guild. She is a wife, mother, and grandmother. She loves  antiques and misses  her Leonberger, but loves her Boxer who fills their lives with love and laughter. Her cat was the queen of the household and is also dearly missed. 

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"Hope" is the thing with feathers That perches in the soul, And sings the tune without the words, And never stops at all,​  by Emily Dickinson


​Generative artificial intelligence technologies (AI) are forbidden to copy or use for training purposes and/or other purpose the writing, photography, or artwork of Susan Marlene.  No permission is granted to generate text, photography, and artwork in the same style or genre as Susan Marlene’s Work, unless express permission is granted by Susan Marlene. No permission is given to sublicense others to reproduce and/or use Susan Marlene’s writing, photography, or artwork without her permission. 

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