Susan Lantz Simpson is author of two Amish fiction series set in Southern Maryland. She has published nine titles all together. Her newest book, Samuel’s Return, is scheduled for release on April, 27, and is available for pre-order. Susan’s background is in English and Education. She has taught from Pre-K to high school. She also has a degree in nursing. Susan lives in Southern Maryland and is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers and Maryland Christian Writer’s Group.
You can read about all of Susan’s books on her website. You can also follow her on Twitter, Facebook, and Pinterest.
Below, are Susan’s answers to FURL’s Author Spotlight Questions.
If you are or know of a published author who would like to be featured who lives, works or otherwise has a connection to the area served by the Urbana Regional Library, please contact us at FURL@friendsurbana.com.
Samuel’s Return will be released April 27, available for pre-sale now.
How did you get started writing?
I have been writing ever since I could hold a pencil in my hand. I remember writing a poem about my cat in the second grade and have been writing stories, poems, and novels ever since. To date, I have written two Amish series (Plainly Maryland and Amish of Southern Maryland Romances), a novella entitled The Christmas Fudge Miracle included in the Amish Christmas Miracles Collection (which made the USA Today Bestseller List!!), and a middle-grade children’s book (Ginger and the Bully).
Plain Haven, Simpson’s first book and the first title in the Plainly Maryland Series.
Where did you get the idea for your first book?
I have always been fascinated with the Amish. We have Amish and Mennonite communities where I live. I have done a lot of reading and research and always wanted to write a novel with Amish characters. I found that there were no Amish novels set in Southern Maryland, so I decided to “write what I know.” In my first Amish novel, Plain Haven, I had an Englisch girl sent to a Maryland Old Order Amish community as part of witness protection as a way to introduce readers to the area.
How long did it take you to write it?
I’m not sure exactly how long it took to write this novel, but I would guess several months. I was working full time and writing whenever I could squeeze in a few minutes to scribble. I write in longhand (some habits are hard to break!), so I can take my work in progress with me everywhere. The bad thing about this is that I then have to type it all.
Was there any part of the publishing/promotion process that surprised you?
The entire publishing/promotion process was a learning experience for me. Thankfully, I had some wonderful writer mentors/friends who offered great advice along the way. I am a quiet person by nature and uncomfortable with “tooting my own horn”, so promotion is the hardest part for me since it forces me to leave my comfort zone.
Who are your favorite authors?
There are so many authors whose books I love to read: Mary Ellis, Kelly Irvin, Vannetta Chapman, Dana Mentink, Shelly Shepard Gray, Beverly Lewis, and so many others.
What's the best book you've read in the past year?
I can’t pick one particular book. After each one that I’ve read, I exclaimed that it was the best book ever! Some of the ones that I’ve enjoyed are Closer Than She Knows and A Long Bridge Home (Kelly Irvin), Island of Last Resorts (Mary Ellis), An Amish Christmas Wedding (Amy Clipston, Kelly Irvin, Kathleen Fuller, Vannetta Chapman), and An Amish Christmas Bakery (Amy Clipston, Beth Wiseman, Kathleen Fuller, Kelly Irvin). Lately I have been reading some cozy mysteries because they are such quick, fun reads. I especially liked Paws for Concern (Amy Hueston) and The Emergency Dessert Squad Mysteries (Laura Bradford).
Is there any advice you would give to “budding authors”?
My advice would be to read as much as possible in the genre you are writing and to write every day, even if it is only a few words. Try to connect with other authors. I reached out to some terrific ladies who became my “writing friends.” One even recommended the agent who took me on as an unpublished author.
Anything else you’d want to share?
I am so happy to participate in your library’s promotion of local authors. Libraries and book stores are two of my favorite places! I am glad for the opportunity to connect with your patrons and your community. Thank you so much!