1,299 followers
7,536 books added

Susan Wiggs

(b.1958)

aka Susan Childress

Susan Wiggs's life is all about family, friends... and fiction. She lives at the water's edge on an island in Puget Sound, and she commutes to her writers' group in a 17-foot motorboat.

Her novels have appeared in the #1 spot on the New York Times Bestseller List, and have captured readers' hearts around the globe. She is a three-time winner of the RITA Award, the highest honor given for a work of romantic fiction. Her novel, The Apple Orchard, is currently being made into a film.

Susan is a former teacher, a Harvard graduate, an avid hiker, an amateur photographer, a good skier and terrible golfer, yet her favorite form of exercise is curling up with a good book.

Awards: Rita (2006) see all

Genres: Romance, Historical Romance, General Fiction, Mystery

New and upcoming books

July 2025

Wayward Girls

Series

Women of War
1. The Mistress of Normandy (1991)
2. The Maiden of Ireland (1993)

Discovery
   1. October Wind (1994)
   2. Jewel of the Sea (1994)
   3. Kingdom of Gold (1994)

Tudor Rose
   1. At the King's Command (1994)
     aka Circle in the Water
   2. The Maiden's Hand (1995)
     aka Vows Made in Wine
   3. At the Queen's Summons (1996)
     aka Dancing on Air

Swept Away
1. The Lightkeeper (1997)
2. The Drifter (1998)

Calhoun Chronicles
   1. The Charm School (1999)
   2. The Horsemaster's Daughter (1999)
   3. Halfway to Heaven (2001)
   4. Enchanted Afternoon (2002)
   5. A Summer Affair (2003)

Chicago Fire Trilogy
   1. The Hostage (2000)
   2. The Mistress (2000)
   3. The Firebrand (2001)

Ocean Between Us
The Ocean Between Us (2004)
The Story of Us (2010)

Lakeshore Chronicles
   1. Summer At Willow Lake (2006)
   2. The Winter Lodge (2007)
   3. Dockside (2007)
   Homecoming Season (2008) (in More Than Words: Stories of Courage)
   4. Snowfall at Willow Lake (2008)
   5. Fireside (2009)
   6. Lakeshore Christmas (2009)
   7. The Summer Hideaway (2010)
   8. Marrying Daisy Bellamy (2011)
   9. Return to Willow Lake (2012)
   10. Candlelight Christmas (2013)
   11. Starlight on Willow Lake (2015)

Bella Vista Chronicles
   1. The Apple Orchard (2012)
   2. The Beekeeper's Ball (2014)
   3. The Lost and Found Bookshop (2020)

Novels

   Texas Wildflower (1987)
   Briar Rose (1987)
   Embrace the Day (1988) (as by Susan Childress)
   Winds of Glory (1988)
   Moonshadow (1989)
   The Lily and the Leopard (1991)
   The Raven and the Rose (1991)
   Lord of the Night (1993)
   The Mist and the Magic (1993)
   Miranda (1996)
   In Our Dreams (1998) (with others)
   The You I Never Knew (2001)
   Passing Through Paradise (2002)
   Home Before Dark (2003)
   Summer by the Sea (2004)
   Table for Five (2005)
   Lakeside Cottage (2005)
   Just Breathe (2008)
   The Goodbye Quilt (2011)
   Hotel Angeline (2011) (with others)
   The St. James Affair (2014)
   Island Time (2016)
   The Key Ingredient (2016)
   Family Tree (2016)
   Map of the Heart (2017)
   Between You and Me (2018)
   The Oysterville Sewing Circle (2019)
     aka The Oysterville Sewing Club
   Sugar and Salt (2022)
   Welcome to Beach Town (2023)
   The Twelve Dogs of Christmas (2023)
   Wayward Girls (2025)

Collections

Merry Christmas, Baby! (1996) (with Bobby Hutchinson and Karen Young)

Novellas and Short Stories

   The Borrowed Bride (2010)
   A Fairytale Christmas (2014)
     aka Cinderfella

Series contributed to

Bachelor Auction / Heart of the West
The 10-Year Reunion (1999)
aka Husband for Hire

More Than Words
3. More Than Words, Volume 3 (2006) (with others)

Picture Books show

Non fiction show

Omnibus editions show

Books containing stories by Susan Wiggs

Two of the Deadliest (2009)
New Tales of Lust, Greed, and Murder from Outstanding Women of Mystery
edited by
Elizabeth George

Awards

	2006 Rita Award for Best Novel : Lakeside Cottage
	2001 Rita Award for Best Novel : The Mistress
	1994 Rita Award for Best Novel : Lord of the Night

Susan Wiggs recommends

The Crescent Moon Tearoom (2024)
Stacy Sivinski
"In this enchanting tale of sisterhood, the Quigleys will have you believing in magic as they navigate the delicate balance between destiny and self-discovery. The Crescent Moon Tearoom is a captivating story that brews a spellbinding blend of fate, love, and the power of family. Stacy Sivinski has created three sisters whose wisdom and kindness will be remembered long after the last page is turned. Please serve with a warm cup of your favorite tea."

The Summer Club (2024)
Hannah McKinnon
"Put on your summer whites and tuck Hannah McKinnon's THE SUMMER CLUB into your beach bag. It's an irresistible journey of friendship, rivalry, love, and self-discovery in one of the freshest, most picturesque settings I've read in a long time. As secrets surface and hearts are laid bare, THE SUMMER CLUB reminds us of the transformative power of connection and the joy of embracing life's unexpected twists and turns."

Nice Work, Nora November (2024)
Julia London
"Nora's remarkable transformation is a testament to the power of second chances. Her quest to conquer her past and fulfill her reverse bucket list is bright with warm humor and poignant moments that will make you laugh, cry, and cheer for her all at once. With richly developed characters and a plot that keeps the pages turning, this novel is a captivating exploration of what it means to truly live. Nice Work, Nora November is a delightful reminder that no matter how bleak the past, the future is filled with endless possibilities. A must-read for anyone seeking inspiration and the joy of second chances."

Lula Dean's Little Library of Banned Books (2024)
Kirsten Miller
"Is it possible for a book to be important, funny, relevant, and wildly entertaining all at once? Kirsten Miller proves the answer is a resounding YES. Please read this one and pass it along!"

The Enemy at Home (2023)
Kevin O'Brien
"A sweeping, addictive story of bravery and sacrifice, told in Kevin O'Brien's cinematic style. Authentic period detail creates a suspenseful, chilling atmosphere in this grand historical novel."

The Woman in the Castello (2023)
Kelsey James
"Like Jess Walters's Beautiful Ruins, the glamour and heady indulgence of the era take center stage in this captivating, multilayered story that will keep you guessing to the end. Silvia and Gabriella are flawed, fascinating characters who will linger in your mind long after the book is closed."

The Summer of Songbirds (2023)
Kristy Woodson Harvey
"our big summer read has arrived! Kristy Woodson Harvey serves up a beautiful, bubbly celebration of everything we love about summer - nostalgia for the sweet days of childhood, the indelible bonds of lifelong friendships, secrets and sorrows, and a shared commitment to rescue a beloved summer icon. A story to savor - and share with a friend."

Graceland (2023)
Nancy Crochiere
"Irresistible, addictive, and utterly entertaining, Graceland is bound to win readers' hearts. There are few things more delightful than a mother-daughter-granddaughter trio on a road trip. To Graceland! This story of family secrets, broken promises, and the healing power of love will stay with you long after the final page is turned."

Esme Cahill Fails Spectacularly (2023)
Marie Bostwick
"Perennial fan favorite Marie Bostwick has done something special. This new novel has all the hallmarks readers have come to love about her books...This big-hearted tale of redemption, family ties, secrets, tough choices, and happy endings is filled with her trademark warmth and wisdom that will leave readers deeply satisfied."

When the Moon Turns Blue (2023)
Pamela Terry
"A deeply moving work of Southern fiction that will appeal to fans of Where the Crawdads Sing . . . a story to remember long after the last page is turned."

Christmas in Blue Dog Valley (2022)
Annie England Noblin
"Feelgood fiction at its finest. Annie England Noblin has crafted an utterly entertaining tale of unexpected chances and small-town secrets, and it's as sweet and comforting as a hand-knit sweater and a warm puppy in your lap."

The Witches of Moonshyne Manor (2022)
Bianca Marais
"Richly imagined, gorgeously written, and completely addictive, this exuberant novel is a celebration of womanhood at its brightest, funniest, most honest, and most kind. Bianca has written the kind of insightful, empowering story you can't wait to share with a friend."

Paradise Girls (2022)
Sandy Gingras
"This is the book your heart needs. Mary's journey to reclaim joy from disappointment is not only rollicking entertainment; it's a testament to the buoyancy of the human spirit. Her irrepressible resilience will inspire her legions of new fans."

Out of the Clear Blue Sky (2022)
Kristan Higgins
"Your big summer read has arrived! Book after book, Kristan Higgins is a can't-miss author who always serves up stories that are fresh, relevant, and deeply involving."

Lost and Found in Paris (2022)
Lian Dolan
"This is a big-hearted belly-laugh of a book, told with wit and poignancy. Family secrets, laughter and tears, shocking reveals, and an uplifting ending make this a story to savor - and share."

Winner Takes All (2021)
(Millionaires Club, book 1)
Sandra Kitt
"One of the most tender and rewarding love stories I've ever read. I loved it!."

The Dictionary of Lost Words (2021)
Pip Williams
"This charming, inventive, and utterly irresistible novel is the story we all need right now. Words have never mattered more, as Pip Williams illuminates in her unforgettable debut."

A Million Reasons Why (2021)
Jessica Strawser
"Don't miss this searching, fraught family drama by a master of her craft. Jessica Stawser gives us a twisty plot, combined with deeply emotional content, in a novel that examines the most profound questions of our hearts. This is a story that will stay in your heart long after the last page is turned."

The Happiest Girl in the World (2021)
Alena Dillon
"Never underestimate the power of a group of women. Fierce, thoughtful, and dramatic--this is a story of true courage."

When the Apricots Bloom (2020)
Gina Wilkinson
"A deeply involving and important novel by a master storyteller. Gina Wilkinson highlights the humanity at the center of a brutal conflict. She brings her lived experience to every page of this harrowing, dramatic, and ultimately hopeful book."

Full Bloom (2020)
Judith Arnold
"Full Bloom is an unforgettable story of family ties, turmoil, and finding the things that truly matter in life. Deeply dramatic and undeniably funny, Judith Arnold's latest will have you up all night reading."

The Bitter and Sweet of Cherry Season (2020)
Molly Fader
"Filled with my favorite things to read about--sisters, secrets, surprises, and genuine, heartfelt sentiment. The talented Molly Fader will keep you turning the pages right down to the oh-so-satisfying final twist."

The Silent Treatment (2020)
Abbie Greaves
"Abbie Greaves held me spellbound with this intimate, emotional story of the brutal power of silence and ostracism. Yet this deep dive into a troubled marriage is ultimately uplifting as Frank and Maggie make their way through the challenges of isolation, mental health, ageing, and the yearning for connection. Keep the tissues handy for this lovely read."

When We Believed in Mermaids (2019)
Barbara O'Neal
"There’s a reason Barbara O’Neal is one of the most decorated authors in fiction. With her trademark lyrical style, she’s written a page-turner of the first order. From the very first page, I was drawn into the drama and irresistibly teased along as layers of a family’s complicated past were artfully peeled away. Don’t miss this masterfully told story of sisters and secrets, damage and redemption, hope and healing."

The Long Flight Home (2019)
Alan Hlad
"Based on true events, The Long Flight Home has everything I love in a novel—the sense of discovery, the epic drama of a life-or-death situation, and the soaring sense of hope gained from the depths of despair. It’s a gorgeous, impressive first novel by a hugely talented author."

You, Me, and the Sea (2019)
Meg Donohue
"A heartfelt, funny, poignant and suspenseful story of a good woman trying her best, making mistakes, picking up the pieces and moving on -- a celebration of what it means to be a working mother."

Me for You (2019)
Lolly Winston
"I loved this novel, an immensely readable, emotionally honest examination of the aftermath of grief and loss. Lolly Winston masterfully weaves humor with pathos in this story of second chances, all-too-human foibles, unlikely love, and an uplifting message of hope."

The Lieutenant's Nurse (2019)
Sara Ackerman
"The Lieutenant's Nurse illuminates the attack on Pearl Harbor with a riveting drama told from a unique perspective. Sara Ackerman brings a time and place to vivid life, putting a human and heroic face on events that changed history. I savored every page!"

Before We Were Strangers (2018)
Brenda Novak
"Riveting drama and suspense from a master of the craft. I loved this twisty tale of friends, enemies, lovers, liars, and a family fractured by secrets. It's the perfect read to cozy up to on a long winter night."

The Secrets We Carried (2018)
(Butternut Lake, book 6)
Mary McNear
"Butternut Lake is so beautiful rendered, you'll wish it was real."

A Curve in the Road (2018)
Julianne MacLean
"A Curve in the Road keeps you turning the pages—and reaching for the Kleenex. It’s a tragic but ultimately hopeful story of second chances, and a deftly woven tale that celebrates the resilience of the human spirit."

The Night Child (2018)
Anna Quinn
"Anna Quinn writes with bright and assured authority, making this a remarkable debut novel you won’t soon forget. Her haunting story, expertly and lovingly crafted, leaves you breathless with both terror and hope."

Before I Knew (2017)
(Cabots, book 1)
Jamie Beck
"Jamie Beck's deeply felt novel hits all the right notes, celebrating the power of forgiveness, the sweetness of second chances, and the heady joy of reaching for a dream. Don’t miss this one!"

The Valentine Games (2017)
Sheila Roberts
"Don't miss this delight look at modern love, filled with humor and heart."

White Sand, Blue Sea (2017)
Anita Hughes
"This is escape reading at its most lush and exotic. Anita Hughes hits all the right notes in WHITE SAND, BLUE SEA – glamour, intrigue, adventure, and a sweep-you-away love story that feels like a mini-vacation to the Caribbean, no matter where you are. Indulge yourself!"

Close to Home (2017)
(Sanctuary Island , book 5)
Lily Everett
"Sanctuary Island will live in your heart long after the book is closed."

The Girl Who Wrote in Silk (2015)
Kelli Estes
"The Girl Who Wrote in Silk is a beautiful, elegiac novel, as finely and delicately woven as the title suggests. Kelli Estes spins a spellbinding tale that illuminates the past in all its brutality and beauty, and the humanity that binds us all together."

The Bourbon Kings (2015)
(Bourbon Kings, book 1)
J R Ward
"Get ready for summer's most sinful indulgence. The drama never stops in this tale of family secrets, lost love found, rivalries, delightfully nasty villains, and deliciously appealing heroes. The clothes, the whiskey, and the gorgeous Kentucky backdrop will sweep you away. The privileged and the downtrodden never had it so good. Put on your derby hat and join in the fun."

Night Blindness (2014)
Susan Strecker
"This is rewarding, up-all-sight reading at its best."

The Bargain (2014)
Deb Stover
"Suspense, romance, and humor--this book has a heart of pure gold."

Snow on the Bayou (2014)
(Tante Lulu, book 2)
Sandra Hill
"Always fresh, romantic, inventive, and hilarious."

Here, and Again (2014)
Nicole R Dickson
"A celebration of the power of love to heal even the most broken of hearts."

Pack Up the Moon (2014)
Rachael Herron
"A celebration of the power of love to heal even the most broken hearts."

Secret Vows (2014)
(Rebel Promise)
May McGoldrick
"The classic rebel-in-disguise story has never been more fun, exciting, or romantic...fabulous!"

Three Good Things (2013)
Wendy Francis
"A warm, witty and wise story of sisters on their journey through love and life."

The Queen's Gamble (2011)
(Thornleigh, book 4)
Barbara Kyle
"Riveting, heady, glorious, inspired."

The Bentleys Buy a Buick (2011)
(That Business Between Us, book 5)
Pamela Morsi
"Pamela Morsi is a perennial favorite for good reason... She writes the perfect feel-good read."

Angel's Rest (2011)
(Eternity Springs, book 1)
Emily March
"A beautiful story of family, community, second chances, and the power of love... Don't miss it!"

Of Flesh and Blood (2010)
Daniel Kalla
"Daniel Kalla deftly portrays the triumph and heartbreak of life-or-death matters."

Miss You Most of All (2010)
Elizabeth Bass
"An exuberant celebration of life, love, family and friendship, told with a sassy Texas flair. It's a perfect balance of humor and heartache, a sweetly satisfying novel that will stay with the reader long after the final page is turned."

Lake Magic (2010)
Kimberly Fisk
"A celebration of all the deepest things in life - family, friendship, and the healing power of love... an emotional roller coaster of a story."

When You Went Away (2009)
(Hearts of Men, book 2)
Michael Baron (Lou Aronica)
"Michael Baron writes with deep sensetivity of the power of love to transform and heal in the face of overwhelming tragedy. A lovely read."

The Duchess's Next Husband (2005)
Terri Brisbin
"A welcome new voice... you won't want to miss."

Moon in the Water (2004)
Elizabeth Grayson
"A master storyteller."

Heart of the Tiger (2003)
(Big Cat Trilogy, book 2)
Lynn Kerstan
"Am unforgettable romantic adventure. Don't miss it!"

Very Truly Yours (2001)
Julie Beard
"Julie Beard has a true gift for bringing the past to life."

Be My Valentine (2001)
Sheila Rabe
"Don't miss this delightful look at modern love, filled with humor and heart."

The Wrong Child (2000)
Patricia Kay
"[Kay] writes from the heart about matters that touch us all."

Wild Thing (2000)
Anne Stuart
"The incomparable Anne Stuart delivers romance, passion and adventure in this exciting tale. Don't miss it!"

Ship of Dreams (2000)
(Americana Dreaming, book 1)
Brenda Hiatt
"A rousing adventure and a grand romance... a true original."

Conquer the Mist (1998)
Susan Kearney
"A marvelously entertaining read!"

The Midnight Moon (1998)
Stobie Piel
"This distant time and place Stobie Piel depicts will capture your imagination - and the romance and triumph of its characters will touch your heart."

Wind Warrior (1998)
(Soul Survivors, book 3)
Vella Munn
"Vella Munn is a major talent in historical fiction. Her stories never fail to lift the spirit and warm the heart."

Ever His Bride (1997)
Linda Needham
"A touching story... told in a delightfully refreshing voice. A real treat for readers."

The Constant Heart (1996)
Trisha Alexander (Patricia Kay)
"A stunning book from a master storyteller. Alexander writes from the heart about matters that touch us all."

More recommendations

Visitors also looked at these authors

About Fantastic Fiction Information for Authors