Susanna Allen Brings Regency Romance And Paranormal Magic To Life

A Literary Force Bridging Genres with Grace and Wit
Featured in Reader’s House Magazine
Susanna Allen, author of The Shapeshifters of the Beau Monde, masterfully combines Regency romance, paranormal intrigue, and personal growth, drawing inspiration from her rich experiences in theatre, blogging, and horse riding.
In the world of literature, few authors manage to captivate readers across such a diverse range of genres as Susanna Allen. Known for her enchanting paranormal Regency romance series, The Shapeshifters of the Beau Monde, Allen has carved a unique niche for herself, blending historical authenticity with fantastical elements. But her talent doesn’t stop there. Writing as Susan Conley, she has also penned contemporary romance and a deeply personal memoir, Many Brave Fools: A Story of Addiction, Dysfunction, Codependency… and Horses.
In an exclusive interview with Reader’s House Magazine, Allen shared insights into her creative process, her inspirations, and the journey that has shaped her into the award-winning author she is today.
A Master of Many Voices
Switching seamlessly between genres might seem daunting to most, but for Allen, it’s a natural extension of her creativity. “They are so separate in my mind, such entirely different worlds, that I don’t have a problem going between them,” she explains. Her ability to adapt her voice—whether it’s the refined tones of Regency England or the contemporary cadence of modern life—stems from years of immersion in literature and blogging. A lifelong reader of Jane Austen and a seasoned writer with a background in theatre criticism, Allen has honed her craft to perfection.
“Susanna Allen’s exceptional storytelling blends wit, originality, and heartfelt themes, creating unforgettable characters and captivating narratives across diverse genres.”
Her time in Ireland, where she earned a Master of Philosophy in Irish Theatre Studies from Trinity College, has also played a pivotal role in shaping her narrative style. “Living in Ireland helps as well: the syntax is different to what I grew up with in the States, and suits the genre,” she notes.
From Theatre Critic to Storyteller
Allen’s background in theatre criticism and feature writing has profoundly influenced her approach to storytelling. “Writing every day in long and short form helped hone my skills, not only as a writer but as an editor,” she shares. This editorial precision is evident in her work, where every word feels deliberate, every scene meticulously crafted.
Her love for theatre has even found its way into her fiction. In her latest release, A Duke at the Door, a troupe of traveling players plays a significant role, adding depth and vibrancy to the narrative.
“They are so separate in my mind, such entirely different worlds, that I don’t have a problem going between them.”
– Susanna Alle
The Magic of The Shapeshifters of the Beau Monde
Allen’s Shapeshifters of the Beau Monde series is a testament to her ingenuity as a storyteller. Combining the elegance of Regency romance with the intrigue of paranormal shapeshifters, the series offers readers a fresh and exhilarating experience. The idea for the series came to her in a moment of serendipity. “A title, A Wolf in Duke’s Clothing, dropped down out of the ether and into my brain,” she recalls. That title became the first book in the series, setting the stage for a world where dukes and duchesses harbor secrets far beyond societal norms.
In her latest installment, A Duke at the Door, Allen continues to push boundaries. The story introduces Tabitha, a 35-year-old apothecary who has traveled the continent and achieved a rare level of independence for a woman of her time. Paired with Alwyn, a lion shapeshifter grappling with loss and captivity, the novel explores themes of healing, resilience, and love. Readers can also look forward to appearances from beloved characters from earlier books and a surprising revelation that promises to keep them on the edge of their seats.
“Everything I’ve learned in the saddle and on the ground around horses now informs my life.”
– Susanna Allen
Lessons from Life and Horses
Allen’s memoir, Many Brave Fools, offers a deeply personal look at her journey of self-discovery through horse riding after a life-altering divorce. The lessons she learned in the saddle—patience, resilience, and the value of progress over perfection—have profoundly influenced her writing. “I’m never done learning when I’m on a horse, and I’ve realised, to my joy, that I’m not done learning about being a writer,” she says.
The Dual Personas of Susanna Allen and Susan Conley
Writing under two pen names allows Allen to explore different facets of her creativity. “As Susanna Allen, I’m a little more playful; as Susan Conley, a little more serious,” she explains. Yet, her signature wit and humor shine through in all her work, making her stories both relatable and unforgettable.
A Literary Star Worth Celebrating
Susanna Allen’s ability to weave compelling narratives across genres is nothing short of extraordinary. Whether she’s crafting a Regency romance with a paranormal twist or delving into the complexities of modern life and personal growth, her work resonates with authenticity and heart.
With A Duke at the Door, Allen once again proves why she’s a force to be reckoned with in the literary world. Her characters are richly drawn, her plots masterfully constructed, and her voice—whether playful or profound—never fails to captivate.
For readers seeking stories that transport, inspire, and entertain, Susanna Allen is an author who delivers every time.