Meet author Susan Pope Sloan

Susan Pope Sloan is a historical fiction author, book reviewer, and speaker. A retired technical writer, she combines her love of history and language in her novels. Each book in her Rescued Hearts of the Civil War series received excellent reviews in Publishers Weekly in 2023.  Susan enjoys giving talks related to her books and research at local museums. Susan and husband Ricky reside in Columbus, Georgia, with access to many historic sites.

What inspired you to write Seeking Simon?

My last book, Managing Millie, mentioned that hero’s brothers, who fought on opposing sides during the Civil War. With the war ended, I thought it would be natural to see how the brothers adjusted—especially Simon, who left home under a cloud before the war started. The Reconstruction period introduced new challenges for everyone in the South.

How would you describe this book to someone in a 30-second blurb?

Illness waylays Simon, a prodigal son, on his way home after the Civil War. When the home of his host is threatened, Simon claims the man’s daughter as his fiancée to save it, creating a tangle of issues for all of them.

What genre do you focus on?

Christian historical romance embraces all the elements that appeal to me. I think we can gain so much insight from history, and romance usually promises a happy ending. As a Christian, it’s only natural to include the promises and comfort from Scripture that enrich our lives and point others to the Master.

Who is your main character, and how did you choose that name?

Character names offer insight into the person. Simon McNeil is much like the Apostle Simon Peter—impulsive and passionate. With my heroine, Daviana, her name became a sticking point because she was much more than her nickname (Dottie). As Dottie, she appeared briefly in Loving Lydia, with no indication she would later demand her own story. Many hours of searching and dithering went into choosing her formal name.

What is the hardest part of being an author?

Writing is hard, but marketing is even harder. As an introvert, I’m happy to stay behind the scenes and uncomfortable with “putting myself forward” as marketing requires.

What’s the best part of your author’s life?

The best part of being an author is meeting other authors and readers who understand the “pull” of writing and reading—living vicariously through the characters in books.

What’s one unusual fact about you?

My father was a gospel songwriter, and I traveled with my family to sing in various churches and other venues from the time I was three years old. These days, I sing periodically on the praise team at church and dress in my Victorian costume during the Christmas season to go a-caroling.

What is your favorite pastime?

Besides reading, I love singing and learning new music.

Do you have other books? We’d love to know.

My Rescued Hearts of the Civil War series includes Rescuing Rose, Loving Lycia, and Managing Millie. After Seeking Simon, there will be one more. I also self-published three small manuals on organizing a caroling group.

What are you working on now?

Book number five in this Civil War series, Redeeming Rupert, which focuses more on the aftermath of the war and Reconstruction.

Website:  https://susanpsloan.com

Link to book: Amazon.com: Seeking Simon (Rescued Hearts of the Civil War Book 4) eBook : Pope Sloan, Susan : Kindle Store

Social media links: linktr.ee@susanpopesloan