Today we’d like to introduce you to Susan Zurenda.
Susan, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I taught English at Spartanburg Community College and for the last ten years of this career at Spartanburg High School in South Carolina. Since I was a kid writing skits for my Girl Scout troop, I always felt compelled to write. During my teaching years, I wrote and published short fiction (winning the South Carolina Fiction Prize twice). After retiring from teaching, I had the time to do what I’d always wanted: write novels.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The publishing industry is competitive, to say the least. I’ve had some lucky breaks with agents and publishers, but getting a novel noticed is a challenge. More than 4 million books were published in the United States last year in 2025, and you have to find a way to shine through. Be sure to check out my new novel, No Way Out but Through. I’m being told people are binge reading it!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My third novel, No Way Out but Through, was published in August 2026. A story of hope and healing inspired by the life of a real woman forced into child marriage, the plot revolves around two women of different generations—one scarred by an abusive teen marriage and the other by an alcoholic husband—who come together to grapple with their inner demons and confront their untold stories.
My first two novels, Bells for Eli, and The Girl From the Red Rose Motel, also deal with characters who triumph from difficult circumstances. What I’m most proud of are the comments from readers who have been touched by my characters’ journeys. My niche, perhaps, is being an author of realistic Southern fiction about believable characters who prevail over seemingly insurmountable odds.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I have had incredible writing models and mentors. It is so important early on in our writing endeavors to find accomplished writers who can guide us. Also, becoming friends with other writers is also one of the best ways to network. I promote my author friends, and mostly, they kindly do the same.
Pricing:
- No Way Out but Through list price for hardback is 28.99
- No Way Out but Through list price for audiobook varies, depending on the outlet
- No Way Out but Through list price for Kindle is 14.99
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.susanzurenda.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susanbeckhamzurenda/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/susan.zurenda/ and https://www.facebook.com/susanbeckhamzurenda/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@susanzurenda
