Holiday Extravaganza read The Doctors Daughter

The Doctor's Daughter

Susan M. Baganz

A White Rose Holiday Extravaganza novella

December 1, 2018

About the Book

Miss Silvia Burnett is left without home after her father, a local physician, passes away unexpectedly. She appeals to a friend from boarding school, Mrs. Katrina Tidley, who resides in the same area where her father’s mentee set up practice. With a calf-love on her part, they’d once agreed to wed each other if she remained unattached at a certain age. But are youthful promises meant to be kept? Would the handsome physician want her now?

Dr. Bruce Miller has watched all his friends from university marry and begin their families. Living in the village of Didcot did not provide him with a wife. When a letter from the daughter of the doctor he interned with in Bristol arrives at his door, hope soars within that maybe this woman is the answer to his lonely nights. 

As influenza spreads and Silvia uses her talents in medicine to aid the doctor, will he find her competition or a viable companion? With Christmas dawning, will dreams be shattered or fulfilled?

$2.99

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Barnes and Noble
 

About the Author: 

Susan M. Baganz chases after three Hobbits and is a native of Wisconsin. She is an Editor with Pelican Book Group specializing in bringing great romance novels and novellas to publication. Susan writes adventurous historical and contemporary romances with a biblical world-view.

You can learn more by following her blog www.susanbaganz.com, her twitter feed @susanbaganz or her fan page,www.facebook.com/susanmbaganz

The Black Diamond meets his match!

Black Diamond Regency series

The Captain’s Conquest

White Rose Publishing, a division of Pelican Ventures LLC

Fifth full-length novel in the Black Diamond series

September, 2017

$5.99 Kindle

Inspirational Regency

Buy on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Captains-Conquest-Black-Diamond-ebook/dp/B07DTYH8P2

About the Book:

Captain Jared Allendale is weary of war, but Wellington gives him one final assignment before he is free of his obligation to the Crown: retrieve a package in Scotland and return it safely to London. Easy assignment for a man who's been an aide-de-camp for the past several years—until the package turns out to be Lucy Cameron, daughter of the Duke of Diamond. Lord Diamonte was banished to France for his treasonous acts. As Jared fights old demons, the dangerous journey south begins. The spectre of death hovers over them as Lord Diamonte's minions hunt Lucy and Jared. It will take love, gifts and their faith in God to help them overcome the evil that looms. Can Jared deliver his package without either of them losing their lives...and their hearts?

My Review:

The British throne is under threat from obvious enemies like Napoleon, as well as from subtle enemies, such as the evil Lord Diamonte during the early nineteenth century. This is the era of haves and have nots, the titled and landed gentry, those who know their places in society, and those with secrets. It’s time to reveal some of them, like the whereabouts of the treasonous duke’s daughter—the one who can defeat him.

The evil duke needs a virgin to sacrifice to his malevolent master in order to secure the power necessary to wrest the British throne. Unfortunately for him but mightily fortunate for her, his daughter Penelope, aka Lucy, has fallen into an accidental marriage with her escort. As Captain Allendale follows his orders to retrieve Lady Penelope from her hideout in Scotland and return her to London, he completely understands she is far above his minor standing in society He would not make a proper husband in any case after the horrors he’s been through as a prisoner of war in France. He plans to retire to the boring countryside alone after this final mission. But he learns he cannot fight both his own night terrors and the calm, soothing Lucy’s love. By the time they need to fight together, they and their family and friends are more than ready to put an end to the Black Diamond for good.

Twists and turns, red herrings and false impressions guide the reader through this well-drawn picture of the Regency era. While this episode in the series, as all of the books, can be read on its own, or in any order, readers familiar with the background of the family members and friends of the title character will enjoy reuniting with them. Captain has endured unspeakable ill treatment at the hands of the enemy, while Lucy has been trained to fear her father and love the Lord. Written in alternating voices, readers of inspirational historical romance who don’t mind reading about brutalities of war, hints of satanic ritual, or second sight will appreciate this fitting endcap to an evil lord, but hopefully not an end to other regency romances.

About the Author:

Susan M. Baganz chases after three Hobbits and is a native of Wisconsin. She is an Acquisitions Editor with Prism Book Group specializing in bringing great romance novels and novellas to publication. Susan writes adventurous historical and contemporary romances with a biblical world-view.

Susan speaks, teaches and encourages others to follow God in being all He has created them to be. She has a degree in counseling psychology, a background in the field of mental health, and serves in church ministry.

You can learn more by following her blog www.susanbaganz.com, her twitter feed @susanbaganz or her fan page, www.facebook.com/susanmbaganz

Other books in the Regency Black Diamond series

Two novellas:

The Baron’s Blunder https://www.amazon.com/Barons-Blunder-Black-Diamond-ebook/dp/B077N2N173 novella, free 11/17

Gabriel’s Gift https://www.amazon.com/Gabriels-Gift-Christmas-Holiday-Extravaganza-ebook/dp/B0774ZX27T novella, 12/17

Full length novels in the series:

The Virtuous Viscount https://www.amazon.com/Virtuous-Viscount-Black-Diamond-ebook/dp/B076BSVDDS novel 11/17

Lord Philip’s Folly https://www.amazon.com/Lord-Phillips-Folly-Black-Diamond-ebook/dp/B076BRPQNG  novel 11/17

Sir Michael’s Mayhem https://www.amazon.com/Sir-Michaels-Mayhem-Black-Diamond-ebook/dp/B07949YZPH  novel 2/18

Lord Harrow’s Heart  https://www.amazon.com/Lord-Harrows-Heart-Black-Diamond-ebook/dp/B07DV3K4M1  novel 7/18

Black Diamond series – now available, the first three full length books in one: The Virtuous Viscount, Lord Phillip’s Folly, and Sir Michael’s Mayhem

https://www.amazon.com/Black-Diamond-3-Book-Series/dp/B0799T65WD

All three for $15.99

New Serial Romance from Susan Baganz

Donuts and Detours

Susan Baganz

Pelican Book Group

Released May, 2018

ebook $4.99

Print $15.99

Buy on Amazon

About the Book

Cars were far easier to understand than most people . . .

Titus Rickmeyer has a servant’s heart. Mechanic and tow-truck driver he’s used to coming to the aid of damsels in distress, especially serving as part of Orchard Hill’s Garage Ministry in his spare time. So why is he suddenly suspicious of the young man fixing cars and bringing donuts to the repair shop?

Bethany Joelle Hanson has been on her own for too long. Orphaned and dumped into foster care at a young age she bounced around the system until declaring her independence at sixteen. She holds her secrets close. She wonders if God has abandoned her too. Working as an assistant baker at a local grocery store, she becomes B.J. in her off hours to work on cars at the Garage Ministry where all the guys there think she’s one of them. But something about Titus threatens her long-honed desire to hide her femininity.

The twists and turn in their relationship lead to detours on the way to the sweet taste of love.

My Review

We all see what we want to see, coming at life from our biased points of experience. Baganz’s latest addition to her series of interconnected friends and family who attend the same Milwaukee-area church just goes to prove the rule. Her story of broken people who come together and weather figuring out how to make friendship, then romance work, is a lovable read. All the stories in the series are stand-alone, with pop-in guests from the other books who play supporting roles. It is not necessary to read them in order, but you’ll be curious about how the relationships developed.

An orphan who experienced an accident and abuse resulting in physical scars, Bethany never knew more than sadness. Losing her mom and dad at a young age and then knowing only foster homes never presented a good role model for friendship or marriage. She feels unprepared for life, as well she should be after emancipating at age sixteen. Fortunately she found a precious lonely older woman who rented part of her home to Bethany. They both need each other and become close. Bethany fell back on two work experiences she learned from a too-brief stay at her one loving foster family and became a baker at a store and works on cars as a volunteer to provide an outlet for her mechanical talents. She not only hides her talents but her gender, fooling even the director of the volunteer church mechanic program—for a while. After an accident at the garage, there was no more hiding. Fortunately, the volunteers at the program were on to Bethany long before Titus, or Ty for short. When Titus and Bethany respond to their feelings for each other, they realize they have a long road ahead of them to work out their personal issues. With the help of their solid faith and new friends and family, they prove that love always conquers all.

Told in multiple points of view, Baganz’s character names can be a handful, as Bethany Joelle is the main female character’s preferred reference and Ty is a short balance. Some of the initial dialog felt a bit stiff, but smoothed out the further we got into this intriguing story. I always enjoy seeing the other characters from the series support each other. Bethany’s claim toward the end that she doesn’t need Ty, but wants him in her life, is a powerful statement that helps put the stakes of a relationship in perspective. Baganz’s former career in social work shows the heartbreak and the joy that can happen through foster care, as well as the disappointments of neglect in families who stop taking the time to care for each other.

About the Author

Susan M. Baganz chases after three Hobbits and is a native of Wisconsin. She is an Acquisitions Editor with Prism Book Group specializing in bringing great romance novels and novellas to publication. Susan writes adventurous historical and contemporary romances with a biblical world-view.

Regency Romance by Susan Baganz

Lord Phillip’s Folly

Susan M Baganz

Christian Regency

November 2017

Pelican Ventures

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Barnes and Noble 

Ebook $5.99

About the Book:

No good deed goes unpunished. Lord Phillip Westcombe is a younger son and sufficiently independent. He has no need upset his tidy life with the messiness of love, but when he comes to the rescue of the lovely Lady Elizabeth Follett, and the two are found in a compromising position, his life takes an unexpected turn. Barely knowing each other, they are forced to wed. Embarking on a new life they must learn to trust God as they face an evil which threatens their lives and the security of the British Empire. Will the minions of the Black Diamond--the bounder who owns the soul of Elizabeth's father--succeed in their evil plans? Will Phillip and Elizabeth's new love and faith survive the test that awaits them? Or will they all fall to the Black Diamond?

My Review:

The undercurrents of Regency England are fraught with a plot to aid the enemy, and forces of evil influence the vulnerable. As the second son of an earl, Phillip’s older brother has the title and privileges thereof all wrapped up. Phillip will not inherit a title or much responsibility and earns a reputation as a reckless young buck in Regency England. When he does inherit a small country estate and turns his life around, his parents don’t believe he could change and set their hearts and minds to bear him from a distance. When he makes another reckless decision during his sister’s coming out ball and rescues a fair damsel in distress, he further inherits a boatload of trouble.

I thoroughly enjoyed this tale of plots with its twists of creepiness. A young lord who turns his life around takes responsibility for a young lady who’s been victimized for most of her life. As devastating as Elizabeth’s life has been, she is in possession of a fine spirit and courage to beg rescue from a handsome stranger. I would think a woman who’s been through the terror hinted at might be more leery of strange men and wifely duties, but this young couple’s growing faith and mutual love for each other was clearly portrayed.

Sir Phillip’s Folly is another fine addition to the wily Black Diamond series. Characters intertwine and add to each other’s stories, but each book stands as a story on its own. Recommended for those who enjoy inspirational Regency romances. Told in multiple viewpoints with flair and drama and good period accuracy.

About the Author:

Susan M. Baganz chases after three Hobbits and is a native of Wisconsin. She is an Acquisitions Editor with Pelican Ventures LLC specializing in bringing great romance novels and novellas to publication. Susan writes adventurous historical and contemporary romances with a biblical world-view. Website: www.susanbaganz.com

Opposites on Steroids with Susan Baganz

Bratwurst and Bridges book review

Susan Baganz

Pastor Dan Wink has suffered his greatest loss. His best friend, Sharon, died a year ago. He’s ready to walk away from ministry…and life. But the men he’s ministered to over the years won’t let him. Sometimes accountability stinks! And the redhead next door, with her precocious, adorable children, brings up desires he thought had died with his wife.

Skye O’Connell has given up much to rescue herself and her kids from her ex-husband’s drug abuse. With a new career, she’s come to the Milwaukee suburbs to start over…but something about the enigmatic pastor who lives across the hall has her asking uncomfortable questions.

A man stuck in grief is challenged by a woman who is lost…can both find their way to life and love?

4.99 eBook

15.99 Print

Buy on Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0744Z1CM2

Buy on BN - https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/bratwurst-bridges-susan-m-baganz/1126839502?ean=9781943104956

My review:

Opposites on steroids!

A man who’s so stuck in his inability to move forward and a young woman who’s trying to move past her bad choices end up across the hall from each other in a Milwaukee apartment complex. Fuzzy pink boots and two energetic kids frazzle the uptight pastor who recently lost his wife after years of being unable to have children. Coming to terms with being a forgiven daughter of the King makes the freewheeling artist wonder why she keeps falling for the wrong men. Surely a divorced woman who doesn’t play the piano is all wrong as a pastor’s wife.

Facing a life of imperfection creates strange company as two lost souls kindle friendship, support, a new sense of purpose and commitment. Then realize that two really are better than one, especially with Christ as their cornerstone.

Loving addition to the Orchard Hill series of contemporary romances. Readers new to the series will be able to perfectly follow this story; readers familiar with the characters will enjoy running into past friends. Sweet contemporary romance suitable for late teens on up. Told from two viewpoints.

About the Author

Susan M. Baganz chases after three Hobbits and is a native of Wisconsin. She is an Acquisitions Editor with Prism Book Group specializing in bringing great romance novels and novellas to publication. Susan writes adventurous historical and contemporary romances with a biblical world-view.

Susan speaks, teaches and encourages others to follow God in being all He has created them to be. With her seminary degree in counseling psychology, a background in the field of mental health, and years serving in church ministry, she understands the complexities and pain of life as well as its craziness. She serves behind-the-scenes in various capacities at her church as well as on the board of her local ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) group. Her favorite pastimes are lazy ones--snuggling with her dog while reading a good book, or sitting with a friend chatting over a cup of spiced chai latte.

You can learn more by following her blog www.susanbaganz.com, her twitter feed @susanbaganz or her fan page, www.facebook.com/susanmbaganz

Rootbeer and Roadblocks with Susan Baganz

About the Book

When God strips away all your hopes and dreams can you trust Him to give you something better?

Johnny Marshall’s cancer is back . . . and so is the girl who broke his heart seven years ago. As Johnny struggles to find the will to live and fights his second round with the disease, he finds hope comes in small packages with an energetic little boy named David.

Having bought in to her parents' narrow view of finding a man worthy of her, years ago, Katie abandoned the one man she'd ever loved. In all the years since, no one has ever compared to Johnny. Now as a single mom of a young boy, she wonders if their reunion right on time or is it too late for a future together?

Discover healing, forgiveness and second chances in Root Beer & Roadblocks, book four in the Orchard Hill series.

February 2017

Prism Book Group, an imprint of Pelican Ventures LLC

Inspirational Romance

eBook $4.99

Print $15.99

Buy on Amazon 

Buy on Barnes and Noble 

Buy on Smashwords 

Susan what do you love about this book in the series?

            Root Beer & Roadblocks is probably one of my favorite stories. Johnny was a secondary character in Feta & Freeways and based on a real-life person who inspired both books. At the end of Feta I realized Johnny needed his own happily-ever-after. He was a particularly fun character to write, and especially the interactions between him and his cousin and best friend, Niko, a relationship that continues now from Johnny’s point of view in this story. Johnny’s a bit of a wild card, kind of sassy in Feta. Life got crazy for him in Root Beer & Roadblocks. When all seemed lost, hope broke through, but it was a rough journey. Kind of like Job, he felt like he had lost everything—but it was fun to surprise him and give him his own happily-ever-after. Also, kids can be fun to write as well and there are a few in this story and those interactions were sweet.

Does each book get easier or harder to write/publish/promote?

            Some are harder to write than others—but more because of life than the actual writing although I do hit a wall of fear with every novel where I think it’s pure rubbish and I think I’ve written myself into a corner. When I recognize that and push through I’m fine. I couldn’t tell you n any of my stories where that spot was. Publishing and going through the editing process is not something I mind (although the first round of revising the rough draft is the hardest). Promoting gets tedious and sometimes feels futile. Ultimately, I need to trust that God is the One who will use the words I write and get those books into the hands of those who need them.

What are you reading now?

Other than books I’m editing—I’m in a book group at church reading Beyond Loneliness: The Gift of God’s Friendship by Trevor Hudson.

What's next?

I’m playing around with writing two different stories in between editing for others and reviewing submitted novels. One project, a romantic suspense, I started last year but need to do some research on before I can continue. Another book is one just for fun, because I was challenged to write it—kind of a murder/mystery with comedic elements. I was pushed by my boss as well as the owner of a music store where I take guitar lessons give it a shot. He wanted someone to write a comedy about a music store…but my boss wanted the murder element—the suspect list is long! So, I hope to combine the two. I may have to channel some Shawn Spencer from Psych for that book. Eventually, I hope to write book eight in the Orchard Hill series because there’s a poor guy who needs his own happily-ever-after so that’s brewing in my head as well. It’s quite busy up there.

About the Author

Susan M. Baganz chases after three Hobbits and is a native of Wisconsin. Susan writes adventurous historical and contemporary romances with a biblical world-view.

Susan speaks, teaches and encourages others to follow God in being all He has created them to be. With her seminary degree in counseling psychology, a background in the field of mental health, and years serving in church ministry, she understands the complexities and pain of life as well as its craziness. She serves behind-the-scenes in various capacities at her church. Her favorite pastimes are lazy ones—snuggling with her dog while reading a good book, or sitting with a friend chatting over a cup of spiced chai latte.

You can learn more by following her blog www.susanbaganz.com, her twitter feed www.twitter.com/susanbaganz  or her fan page, www.facebook.com/susanmbaganz and Pinterest at www.pinterest.com/silygoos.

Feta and Freeways by Susan Baganz

Prism Book Group

2016

ISBN 978-1537366043

eBook $3.99

Print $13.99

Buy on Amazon, BN, Smashwords

From the Back Cover

He’d never noticed her…till now.

Nikolos Acton is the lead singer of a Christian Band, Specific Gravity, struggling to make it in the industry after an unplanned break, touring the country with their manager, Tia.

Tia Bartel loved Niko for the longest time, but it wasn’t until she stepped in to save his life that he finally realizes what has been there all along. Is it too late for him? Could a relationship between them work after years of ignoring her? How would he ever convince her he’s worthy of her trust?

As they journey on the freeway of life and love, they encounter struggles as they are forced to rely on their faith, and friends, to make it through.

My Review

I’m a big fan of outside-the-box contemporary fiction, and the Orchard Hill series steps right in to fill a rut of genre-specific romance, suspense, or mystery. Yes, these are love stories, but tales with a purpose that don’t need to be formulaic.

This fourth story from Baganz follows her general true-to-life premise that everyone has issues, everyone is broken and everyone needs the Lord as Master of his or her life. Then we need each other, and it’s the dealing with each other part that always gets tricky, even for Christians. These very faith-oriented stories are all stand-alone, but draw on characters from the other books. In this book, the person who makes everything work for a rising contemporary Christian band, Tia, prefers the shadows of anonymity to worship her hero, the lead singer Niko, from afar. When Niko receives his wake-up call after Tia’s attack by a crazed not-fan, the spotlight shines on her—both the ugly and the good sides of what she’s made of. Coming into the light is a huge risk, yet one she’s willing to take with Niko’s enlightened promises and support.

Feta and Freeways is this story of what it takes to be committed to a higher purpose, a network of people who rely on each other through faith, family, and talent offered to the glory of God. It’s not perfect, it can be messy and twisted, but through it all there’s some giggles, a number of surprises and twists, revelations and a set up for the next adventure. A truly enjoyable read with a peek into life on the road, roots and wings, and the joy of camaraderie. For those who like faith-based stories of contemporary life in sometimes not so nice places and realistic decision-making.

Susan Baganz and The Baron's Blunder Regency Romance

We're up to Book Number 10 in the Love Is series!
In a departure from contemporary romance, author Susan Baganz gives us a charming Regency read.

Enjoy! Love does not delight in evil, I Corinthians 9:

About the Book:

The Baron’s Blunder

“Love does not delight in evil …” 1 Corinthians: 13:6

Fighting evil has been a hobby, but fending off marriage-minded women—a chore. 

Lord Charles Percy fends off a highwayman robbing a carriage in broad daylight. Noting that he’s rescued a debutante, he lies about his title claiming to be a mere mister. But the Honorable Henrietta Allendale is suspicious that something is false in spite of his act of heroism on her behalf. She didn’t need a man to fight her battles. So why can’t she stop thinking about him? 

Meeting again in London, Lord Percy begins to enjoy the verbal sparring with the intrepid young woman and his heart is soon captivated as well. But he’s playing a deep game and her presence in his life puts hers at risk. When a successful rescue results in possible scandal, the baron’s biggest challenge will be to convince the marriage-adverse young woman that his love is true. 

Ebook: $2.99

Bundled print coming soon

Buy on Amazon

My Review:

Charming and delightful…and sinister and layered. On the outside, Henri tries to be the lady of repute her upstanding family deserves. But her country deserves so much more, and there must be something she can do to protect the innocent. Who would suspect a high-ranking woman playing such a dangerous game? Certainly not a dodgy character who keeps her from using her pistol to defend herself.

Henri, who can take care of herself, thank you, learns her rescuer misrepresented himself, and acquainted with her brother to boot, sinking her opinion of him lower than low. But when her innocence combined with hotheadedness gets her in trouble, the game shifts. She’s offered a choice that will allow her to continue her service to her country on one condition, dependent on overcoming her opinion of the baron who blundered upon first acquaintance.

Sweet story of first impressions and misconceptions working together and adding up to a greater cause. Told in alternating viewpoints, the story is fast-paced and true to the historical style this author excels in. Watch for her upcoming Regency series.

You would think the author of countless romance stories would find it easy to write one out of her own life. But it’s not.

Growing up, I would walk home and look up to heaven, spin around, and wonder if God was taking my picture. Did He care for my overly-sensitive, hurting and lonely heart? All a teacher had to do was look at me wrong and I’d burst into tears until sixth grade when I learned to hide my pain.

The sweetest love story is when, after years of sensing God’s call to me, I finally understood that I could respond. That he was waiting for me to do so! James 4:8 says “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. (NASB)” Really? He wasn’t some distant King high on a thrown beyond my reach. I first came to understand this at a Campus Life/Youth for Christ meeting.

For weeks I had begged some friends to let me come to a meeting. They seemed happy. They had something I didn’t. And they would go to concerts for groups like . . . Petra, who I had never heard of. Finally, I was invited and we had a conversation about misconceptions people had about Christianity. I was raised knowing about God and taught to fear Him, so I was fully engaged in the conversation. Then the biggest misconception hit me—that people didn’t understand that they could have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

Whoa. Really?

I prayed right then and there and my entire world shifted.

I went out and bought a Bible and started devouring it. Opposition came but I clung to Christ. To a hurting, lonely fifteen-year-old, the fact that the God of the universe wanted me—Me?—was a huge revelation. When depression plagued me, I was told I was trying to manipulate people. The only reason I never attempted to take my life was because of the love of God.

Thirty-five years have brought me through many trials and triumphs, deep pains and sweet moments. God has been there by my side through all of it. I wish I could say that I’ve been as faithful to Him as He has been to me. It’s hard when people have wounded me deeply to trust the God who allowed it to happen. Yet I wouldn’t be here without Him. He’s led me, grown me, matured me . . . and I’ve learned that in Him I have more strength than I could ever have on my own. Some trials I look back on in wonder at how I was able to respond the way I did. That couldn’t have been me, could it?

Only God.

Through abuses, betrayals, heartache, He has been my constant. My one true love. When I write my romances my hope and prayer is that at some level the reader will understand the love of God that underlies the journey’s my characters take.

God is faithful. He has never abandoned me. The fact that He gives me the opportunity to put some of those experiences into my stories to bless others is just another example of His love for me.

  

About the Author:

Susan M. Baganz chases after three Hobbits and is a native of Wisconsin. She is an Acquisitions Editor with Prism Book Group specializing in bringing great romance novels and novellas to publication. Susan writes adventurous historical and contemporary romances with a biblical world-view. Visit http://susanbaganz.com

Salsa and Speedbumps by Susan Baganz

Salsa & Speed Bumps

by Susan Baganz

January, 2016

Prism Book Group

Ebook $3.99

Print $13.99

ISBN 978-1523256983

Buy on Amazon

About the book:

One moment of sin leads to a path of pain ...and unexpected love.

Stephanie’s life hits a speed bump in the wake of her boyfriend’s sin. Splitting up with him, she faces a future of difficult choices shaded in shame. She wants to do what is right but the new man in her life leaves her fantasizing about a future that is now beyond her grasp.

Roberto finds his heart and professional world turned upside down by the beautiful bombshell. He struggles with his own inner demons and past so he’s not about to cast stones. When he is accused of immoral behavior, and temptation haunts him from every side, can he stand true to the calling God has given him?

Joining forces to face the future though comes at a high cost for them both as their individual pasts rise up to destroy them and their relationship. Integrity comes with a high price tag. With a deep faith in God and the help of friends at Orchard Hill Church, can they find happiness and love they long for? 

A brief interview with the author:

Susan, tell us what you love about this book.

I love Roberto’s integrity, especially in the midst of difficult circumstances and in spite of his own pain. While the story is more Stephanie’s, Roberto made a great tortured hero. Stephanie has been a rock for her friend Renata (Pesto & Potholes) and when I shook up her world I didn’t know what to expect. The two of them together? Sizzle.

Introduce us to your most quirky character.

The quirky characters would be Roberto’s parents, but they are really just sweet and exuberant.

Can you share something you learned during the research?

I didn’t do a ton of research that I remember . . . but I wrote the original draft about four years ago! Most of my “research” came from conversations over the years that informed the writing of the story.

What are you reading now?

I’m reading Her Deadly Inheritance by Beth Ziarnik. But I read a lot of book at one time. I’m also working through some non-fiction books: The Divine Conspiracy (Dallas Willard), Humilitas (John Dickson) and Switch (Chip & Dan Heath). And of course the Bible which stands in a class by itself. In Matthew right now.

What’s next? 

Book three in the Orchard Hill series is Feta & Freeways and is tentatively due out in September. 

A novella which is part of the “Love Is . . .” series by Prism Book Group, is called The Baron’s Blunder and is due out in August but also serves as a prequel to my Regency series. I’m juggling edits and revisions on several manuscripts right now!

Thank you for coming today, Susan, and best wishes with your work.

My review:

Baganz’s tale of contemporary relationships, choices, reactions to the things that happen is a thoughtful and cautionary story. It is not traditional romance, and told with equal vulnerability from both the male and female interpretation of a relationship.

The author’s background in mental health authenticates the reluctance and shame behind criminal actions such as forced sexual relations between adults in potential compromising situations. Baganz’s female protagonist is an extraordinarily beautiful woman, desired not only by a dangerous illegal immigrant cook working at the restaurant where she’s a silent partner and server, but also by the owner of the family corporation for nefarious purposes. Another of her instant admirers has the potential to steal her heart. But Stephanie’s secret colors her life and future. With the support of her friends and business partners she explores a heart-wrenching decision. Stephanie’s new admirer, however, attorney Roberto, offers another option. Roberto is as close to a rescuing knight as can be, but for a shameful recent past that changed his life and leaves him in great physical pain that stretches his coping skills.

Two very broken people, from families that directly influenced them, come together through faith and hope to forge a new future, one that is threatened even after their marriage. Surviving the tough stuff becomes more than just a saying for Stephanie and Roberto. Salsa and Speedbumps is great food for thought. Told from multiple viewpoints. Recommended for readers who enjoy some thrills and danger, and heavy duty emotional inspirational stories.

About the author:

Susan M. Baganz chases after three Hobbits and is a native of Wisconsin. She is an Acquisitions Editor with Prism Book Group specializing in bringing great romance novels and novellas to publication. Susan writes adventurous historical and contemporary romances with a biblical world-view. 

Susan speaks, teaches and encourages others to follow God in being all He has created them to be. With her seminary degree in counseling psychology, a background in the field of mental health, and years serving in church ministry, she understands the complexities and pain of life as well as its craziness. She serves behind-the-scenes in various capacities at her church. Her favorite pastimes are lazy ones--snuggling with her dog while reading a good book, or sitting with a friend chatting over a cup of spiced chai latte.

You can learn more by following her blog www.susanbaganz.com, her twitter feed @susanbaganz or her fan page, www.facebook.com/susanmbaganz