Step into the cunning and colorful world of Susanna, Lady Appleton, where Elizabethan intrigue and herbal expertise collide in Kathy Lynn Emerson’s delightful Face Down mystery series! Set in 16th-century England, this historical mystery saga follows the brilliant Susanna, a gentlewoman and sleuth whose sharp mind and knowledge of poisons unravel murders amidst the pomp and peril of Tudor society. Perfect for fans of historical fiction with a dash of cozy mystery, this series offers a captivating blend of suspense, wit, and richly detailed settings.
With nine novels and a collection of short stories, Susanna, Lady Appleton invites readers to explore a world where courtly conspiracies and rural secrets intertwine. Whether you’re drawn to strong heroines or the allure of Elizabethan life, Susanna’s adventures promise a thrilling escape into the past.
How Susanna, Lady Appleton Began
Kathy Lynn Emerson, a versatile author with a passion for the 16th century, introduced Susanna, Lady Appleton in 1997 with Face Down in the Marrow-Bone Pie. Inspired by her love for historical accuracy and complex female characters, Emerson crafted Susanna as a trailblazing herbalist who defies the gender norms of her time. Drawing from her extensive research into Tudor life, Emerson wove a series that balances authentic period details with engaging whodunits, earning praise for its vivid storytelling and feminist undertones.
The Heart of Susanna, Lady Appleton
The series kicks off with Face Down in the Marrow-Bone Pie (1559), where Susanna investigates the suspicious death of her husband’s steward, found face down in a pie, uncovering family secrets and poison-laced plots. In Face Down Upon an Herbal (1561), Susanna is summoned to Madderly Castle to solve a baron’s murder, navigating treasonous conspiracies linked to her own herbal tome. Face Down Among the Winchester Geese (1563) sees her tackling a serial killer in London’s seedy underbelly, while Face Down O’er the Border (1577) takes her to Scotland to clear a friend’s name in a murder mystery.
Emerson’s series shines through its themes of female empowerment, intellectual curiosity, and the clash between tradition and progress. Susanna’s expertise in poisonous herbs—detailed in her fictional A Cautionary Herbal—serves as both a plot driver and a nod to Renaissance science. The vivid Elizabethan backdrop, from royal courts to rural manors, immerses readers in a world of religious strife, political scheming, and rustic charm. With a cozy yet suspenseful tone, the series appeals to those who love a clever sleuth and a well-researched historical setting.
Why Susanna, Lady Appleton Resonates
Though not as widely known as some historical mystery giants, the Susanna, Lady Appleton series has carved a niche among fans of Tudor fiction and cozy mysteries. Susanna’s bold independence and scientific mind make her a timeless heroine, resonating with readers who admire women who challenge societal norms. Emerson’s meticulous research and engaging plots have earned accolades, including comparisons to Ellis Peters’ Brother Cadfael series for their historical depth.
The series’ lasting appeal lies in its ability to transport readers to a vibrant era while delivering satisfying mysteries. Its reprint editions in 2024–2025 and dedicated fanbase on platforms like Goodreads underscore its enduring charm, proving that Susanna’s adventures remain a hidden gem worth discovering.
- Publication Years: 1997–2007 (novels), 2004 (short story collection)
- Number of Books: Nine novels, one short story collection (Murders and Other Confusions)
- Setting: Elizabethan England (1559–1577)
- Awards: Emerson’s nonfiction How to Write Killer Historical Mysteries won the 2008 Agatha Award
Dust off your ruff, grab Face Down in the Marrow-Bone Pie, and dive into Susanna, Lady Appleton’s enchanting world of Tudor mysteries!