Mystery writer.
Amateur historian.
Bookseller.
Insufferable knowitall about almost anything having to do with my primary obsession, the French Revolution (and writing mystery novels about it).
"Book Nerd" or "Word Nerd" just about sums it up . . .
I'm the author of two historical mystery novels set in the French Revolution: Game of Patience and A Treasury of Regrets, featuring Parisian sleuth Aristide Ravel, published by St. Martin's Press. These are the first of what I hope will be a longish series of mysteries set in Paris just before, during, and after the Revolution; the third in the series, The Cavalier of the Apocalypse, set in 1786, will probably be out in early 2009.
These novels are available worldwide where English-language books are sold, or badger your local library into buying copies if it doesn't have them. And since an author survives on word of mouth, if you love them, please spread the word to fellow history/mystery readers.
Come visit my author website -- susannealleyn.com -- to read more about my books, sample some chapters, find out how to get free (yes, free!) signed copies of Game or Treasury, and sign up for my very occasional newsletter to get the latest updates.
Nice things the reviewers said about A Treasury of Regrets:
"Alleyn skillfully depicts her characters' flaws and strengths while plotting a fine puzzle mystery. If your patrons enjoy historicals and have not yet discovered Alleyn, put her latest on the must-read list." -- Library Journal (starred review)
A Treasury of Regrets is also on Library Journal's list of the top five mystery novels of 2007!
"This is an excellent choice for mystery fans and for supplemental reading that supports both history and French culture curricula." -- School Library Journal
"A Treasury of Regrets combines the best in history and mystery. . . . The mystery itself is artfully plotted and compelling; I was in due suspense as to whodunit." -- The Historical Novels Review
"Ms. Alleyn skillfully portrays a household of suspects where crimes multiply. . . . The author captures the atmosphere of a nation struggling toward a social and political unity untainted by the irrational violence and cruelty of those who toppled the monarchy. Ravel is a realistic and appealing observer of a developing society." -- The Washington Times
"With a light, literate hand, Alleyn includes a wealth of detail about life in France during the Republican period, while ratcheting up the tension with every chapter. Fans of Charles O'Brien (Mute Witness) and Baroness Orczy (The Scarlet Pimpernel) will be delighted." -- Publishers Weekly
(Read more at my website!)
I'm also the author of A Far Better Rest, a reimagining of A Tale of Two Cities, just because I wanted to see Dickens's great story and wonderful character Sydney Carton placed in a more realistic historical setting. (Mr. Dickens wrote a classic novel that is fine literature--to which I tried to stay true--but bad history.) AFBR is out of print now, but you can find a used or remaindered copy 'most anywhere online. Enjoy.
I think guillotines are pretty cool and I probably know more about Charles-Henri Sanson (the executioner of Paris who guillotined Louis XVI and many, many other people) than anyone else on the planet. Though I welcome challenges.
I read French moderately well and speak (and write) it extremely badly. If you send me a message in French, please expect an answer in mangled French--or I just may give up and use English . . .
