Susan Koefod's Blog

Catch me at the Twin Cities Book Festival! This year, we’re gathering at Saint Paul’s historic Union Depot, and I’ll be at the Calumet Editions table on Saturday afternoon, November 8. Swing by to chat, ask questions, and celebrate our shared love of books. With nearly 140 exhibitors, hundreds of authors, and endless reads to discover, it’s the perfect time to explore and pick up some holiday gifts. See you at the festival!

St Paul Union Depot Address: 214 4th St E, St Paul, MN 55101

You are cordially invited to attend a literary event at Inkwell Booksellers (426 E Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis) on November 11 from 5:30 to 7:30 PM. The evening will feature brief readings followed by a discussion of our new books and the stories behind the stories.

My novel, Albert Park: a Memoir in Lies, challenges readers to reconsider the boundaries between truth and fiction. I delve into the complexities of family, memory, and self-deception. Through innovative narrative techniques, this work offers a comprehensive examination of the influence of stories on individuals and the dynamic nature of memory over time.

Cass brings historical and mythological figures to life in her fiction and poetry, from exploring early women writers in Nin to interpreting Enheduanna’s Iraqi pictographs in Humming the Blues and telling a modern story in her latest novel of Spain’s Alhambra Palace with Ring of Lions.

Gary Lindberg, founder of Calumet Editions, will moderate the discussion. His background as an author and publisher adds valuable insight into the process from idea to publication.

Attendees will have the opportunity to hear both authors read from their new works, participate in a Q&A session, and gain exclusive insights into the writing process. Books will be available for purchase and signing, making this a perfect occasion for literary lovers and aspiring writers alike.

Call Inkwell if you’d like to reserve copies of our books. (763) 209-8117

Tune in this Tuesday, October 28, from 7–8 PM Central Time on 90.3 FM Minneapolis, or stream live at http://www.kfai.org, to catch my interview on Write On! Radio. I’ll be talking about my two 2025 books: “Albert Park: a Memoir in Lies” and “Escapes and Other Stories.” Would love to have you listen in and hear more about the stories behind the stories. Mark your calendars!

My latest book, “Escapes and Other Stories,” is a vivid blend of mystery, suspense, and the uncanny. Each sharply crafted tale introduces characters desperate to break free—from the weight of their past, the confusion of their present, and the shadows of an uncertain future. The collection ranges from chilling ghost stories to tightly wound mysteries. Get your copy today!

PAPERBACK

Available for sale in the US, UK, Canada, Germany, France, Spain, Italy and Japan.

KINDLE

Available for sale in the US, UK, Canada, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Brazil, Mexico, Australia

The Albert Park audiobook is officially here and ready to transport you to its world! Immerse yourself in the story on both Amazon and Audible!

Get your copy here:

Amazon Audiobook: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CY3CH325

Audible: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CY3CH325

Good news for listeners in the US, UK, Canada, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, and Japan! It’s available for you now!

Happy listening! #AlbertPark #Audiobook #NewRelease #AmazonAudiobook #Audible #BookLover #ListenUp

On March 15 at 10 AM—this Saturday—I will be at the Rosemount Steeple Center to talk about, sell, and sign my new novel “Albert Park: a Memoir in Lies.” I can be found at the Calumet Editions booth.

The Rosemount Writers Festival and Book Fair connects budding and established writers with published authors and other experts in the field to share information, techniques, skills, and resources.

Writers and readers are very welcome to browse and shop at book fair. Come see the wonderful books available from my publisher and other authors!

Hope to see you there!

The St. Paul Pioneer Press recently featured a compelling review of my new novel—”Albert Park: A Memoir in Lies”— describing this thought-provoking book as a must-read for anyone who loves a story that keeps you guessing. The book challenges readers to question the nature of truth and the stories we tell ourselves.

“The novel is so readable because it raises issues of self-worth, memory, living an ethical life and the masks we all wear, all wrapped up in fine writing.”

—Mary Ann Grossman, Book Reviewer, St. Paul Pioneer Press, March 9, 2025

Where to Find the Book:

Have you read “Albert Park: A Memoir in Lies”? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Don’t forget to pick up a copy and join the conversation.

I am thrilled to tell you that I have TWO new books being published this year by Calumet Editions.

Albert Park: a Memoir in Lies will be released early in 2025. Told through Albert Park’s singular—albeit entirely unreliable—point-of-view, Albert Park: a Memoir in Lies is a thrice-told story of how ghosts haunt the present. More info is coming about the book’s release and events.

I am thrilled to be sharing this tale with you. Early readers of the book have agreed this book will wow readers. I can’t wait for it to be out in the world.

 “Koefod’s masterful tale is a portrait of our times: a modern picaresque novel that examines the nature of truth, lies and memory.”

— Carla Hagen, author, Hand Me Down My Walking Cane and Muskeg

Escapes: Short Stories will arrive later this spring or early summer. Escapes delves into the motivations of characters seeking to break free from their troubled pasts and present circumstances. The stories explore a range of themes, from the supernatural to the criminal.

The collection features two early stories about Arvo Thorson, a detective who later becomes the protagonist of my mystery novel series. Thorson’s early appearances showcase his sharp mind, unwavering determination, and personal demons. With its rich characterizations, suspenseful plots, and unexpected twists, Escapes is a captivating read for fans of short fiction and mystery alike. Each story leaves a lasting impression, making the reader eager for more.

I turned a significant age this year, 65, and am celebrating the entire year. If life is a wardrobe, I am going through what I have been hanging onto for years, keeping the classics, removing the tattered, and rehoming the still wearable, well-loved pieces. I’m of an age where I don’t need a lot of flashy new things; plus, I’m creative and like to design and make my own way both in my wardrobe and in my life.

Big life changes—at work and at home—are a great time to consider what to keep doing , what to start doing, and what to stop doing.

Here I could begin to spout cliches about life changes, but won’t. There are so many in front of us every day on social media, at work, on gift shop coffee cups., on post-it notes tacked to mirrors and computer screens, and elsewhere. They can be initially motivating but we quickly grow blind to the slogans.

Instead, I will direct you to a humorous piece I wrote for McSweeney’s that really says it all. https://www.mcsweeneys.net/articles/recycle-your-dreams. I hope you read and enjoy and get started on your own life recycling!

Come see me at the Rosemount Writers Festival and Book Fair, mingle with the book-loving public, buy books, hang out with authors, and attend optional literary workshops.

All three Arvo Thorson mysteries － Burnt Out, Broken Down, and Washed Up － and my young adult novel － Naming the Stars － are available for purchase. Snap up a “Currently Reading” book bag and make a statement with your book fair buys.

Find me at table 26
When: Saturday, March 16 from 9am – 4:30pm
Where: Steeple Center • 14375 S. Robert Trail • Rosemount, MN
For more info, see https://www.rosemountwritersfestival.com/writers-festival