Picture a Midwest storyteller who traded ice cream scoops for quill pens, weaving Regency romances that captivate hearts worldwide—meet Laura Landon! Born Susan Baumann, this historical romance author spun tales of love, suspense, and Victorian elegance, enchanting readers with her authentic characters and vivid settings. From her small Nebraska village, Laura’s novels became a global sensation, translated into languages like German and Japanese, proving that love stories know no borders.
The Making of Laura Landon
Laura Landon’s journey to literary stardom was anything but ordinary. Starting as a high school music teacher for a decade, she then ran her own ice cream shop, serving sundaes with a smile for nine years. But it was in 1997, at age 49, that she began writing, and by 2009, her first novel was published. Inspired by her love for romance novels, Laura, a self-proclaimed 'senior citizen living the dream,' found her true calling, closing her shop to write full-time.
Her Midwest roots shaped her storytelling. Living in a tight-knit rural community, where she served on the hospital board and organized town events, Laura drew on themes of loyalty and connection. Her knack for reinvention—from teacher to entrepreneur to author—mirrored the resilience of her heroines, making her stories deeply relatable.
Laura Landon’s Unforgettable Stories
Laura penned over two dozen Regency romances, known for their lush Victorian settings, suspenseful twists, and heartfelt happily-ever-afters. Her novels, published by Prairie Muse and Amazon’s Montlake Romance, average over a million pages read monthly. Key works include Intimate Deception, a tale of secrets and forbidden love, and Ransomed Jewels, where espionage meets romance in a gripping series.
Her Cast in Scandal series, with its intricate plots and strong-willed characters, showcases her signature style: blending historical accuracy with emotional depth. For example, Cast in Ruin follows Benjamin and Rachel, whose secrets threaten their forced marriage, keeping readers on edge. Laura’s Scottish historicals, like A Matter of Choice, add rugged charm to her repertoire, proving her versatility.
What sets Laura apart is her ability to craft authentic characters. Her heroes and heroines, often navigating deception or danger, feel like old friends. Fans adore her mysterious twists—a blackmail plot here, a hidden identity there—making each book a page-turner that pairs perfectly with a cozy evening.
Why Laura Landon Matters
Laura Landon’s impact transcends her books. Her novels, translated into multiple languages and optioned for publication in Russia and Turkey, brought Regency romance to diverse audiences. Her stories, averaging 1.5 million pages read monthly, offered readers an escape into worlds of love and intrigue. As a Rone Award finalist, she earned critical acclaim, but her true legacy lies in her community spirit. Laura’s involvement in her Nebraska town, from directing its 125th anniversary to fundraising, mirrored the warmth of her stories.
Though Laura passed away in August 2024, her novels continue to inspire, reminding us that it’s never too late to chase a dream. Her work remains a testament to the power of reinvention and the enduring appeal of a well-told love story.
About Laura Landon
- Born: Susan Baumann, date unavailable
- Key Works: Intimate Deception, Ransomed Jewels, Cast in Scandal
- Awards: Rone Award finalist (2018)
- Fun Fact: Laura once ran an ice cream shop before becoming a full-time author!
Ready to fall in love with Laura Landon’s world? Snag Intimate Deception and dive into her spellbinding Regency romances today!