Picture a Virginia-born storyteller who spun tales of passion and intrigue in Regency England—meet Liz Carlyle! Writing under her pseudonym, Susan Tatum Woodhouse crafted historical romance novels that swept readers into a world of dashing rakes and spirited heroines. With a knack for weaving complex characters and sizzling chemistry, Carlyle became a USA Today bestselling author and a beloved name in romance.
From her debut novel to award-winning series, Carlyle’s work blends historical detail with emotional depth, earning her a RITA Award and a devoted following. Let’s dive into her journey, from corporate life to literary stardom, and discover why her stories still captivate hearts.
The Making of Liz Carlyle
Born Susan Tatum Woodhouse on August 7, 1958, in Suffolk, Virginia, Carlyle’s path to romance writing was anything but conventional. Armed with a journalism degree from Radford University, earned on a Scripps Howard writing scholarship, she spent nearly two decades in human resources and labor relations, working in the automotive and chemical industries. It wasn’t until 1996, during a break between jobs, that she took a leap into writing. In just two months, she penned her first novel, which, though unpublished, caught the eye of Pocket Books. By 1998, they bought two of her manuscripts, launching her career with My False Heart in 1999.
Liz Carlyle’s Unforgettable Stories
Carlyle’s novels are a masterclass in historical romance, blending lush Regency settings with intricate plots and characters who leap off the page. Her debut, My False Heart, won the Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice Award and set the tone for her signature style: emotionally rich stories with strong, independent heroines and flawed, redeemable heroes. Her Neville Family & Friends series, starting with Never Lie to a Lady, follows the spirited Xanthia Neville as she navigates love and a shipping empire, delivering a mix of adventure and sensuality.
The MacLachlan Family & Friends series, kicked off by The Devil to Pay, is another fan favorite. This RITA Award-winning novel introduces Aleric, Lord Devellyn, and Sidonie Saint-Goddard, whose fiery romance unfolds against a backdrop of secrets and redemption. Carlyle’s ability to weave recurring characters, like the charming George Kemble, across her books creates a connected universe that keeps readers hooked. Her stories often explore themes of trust, transformation, and the power of love to heal, all wrapped in witty dialogue and steamy encounters.
With over 20 novels, including The Devil You Know and The Bride Wore Pearls, Carlyle’s work stands out for its historical accuracy and emotional resonance. Her foray into contemporary romance with a 2003 novella in the Big Guns anthology showed her versatility, but historical romance remains her true domain.
Why Liz Carlyle Matters
Liz Carlyle’s impact on historical romance is undeniable. Her novels, praised for their depth and realism, have earned her a spot on the USA Today bestseller list and nominations for multiple Romantic Times awards. The 2006 RITA Award for The Devil to Pay cemented her as a genre powerhouse. Beyond accolades, Carlyle’s stories resonate with readers for their portrayal of strong women who defy societal norms and men who grow through love’s challenges. Her richly detailed worlds transport readers to 19th-century England, making every book a mini-vacation.
Now retired and living in North Carolina with her husband, Edward, and their cats, Carlyle’s legacy endures through her timeless tales. Fans still rave about her ability to balance passion, mystery, and heart, making her a must-read for romance enthusiasts.
- Born: August 7, 1958, Suffolk, Virginia
- Key Works: My False Heart, The Devil to Pay, Never Lie to a Lady
- Awards: 2006 RITA Award, 1999 Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice Award
Ready to fall in love with Regency romance? Snag The Devil to Pay and dive into Liz Carlyle’s world of passion and intrigue!