Picture a storyteller who weaves gritty mysteries with the heart of a social reformer—meet S.L. Stoner! This Portland-based historical fiction author brings early 20th century America to life through her thrilling Sage Adair Mysteries, blending fast-paced adventure with a fierce passion for economic justice. With a life as colorful as her novels, Stoner’s work captures the struggles and triumphs of ordinary people fighting against greed and corruption.
Writing under the pseudonym S.L. Stoner, Susan Stoner channels her activism into stories that echo the progressive spirit of the early 1900s. Her novels aren’t just page-turners; they’re a vibrant tribute to the unsung heroes who shaped a fairer world. Ready to dive into her world of undercover operatives and historical intrigue?
The Making of S.L. Stoner
Susan Stoner, the woman behind S.L. Stoner, is a true rebel with a cause. A self-described 'unrepentant sixties hippie,' she spent decades as a labor union and civil rights attorney, fighting for social and economic justice. From volunteering in prisons and free clinics to suing city hall (and winning!), her life reads like a novel itself. Her activism, coupled with a love for historical research, sparked her writing career. Inspired by the untold stories of everyday progressives, she turned to fiction to bring history to life.
Before penning mysteries, Stoner honed her craft through academic papers and legal briefs, always drawn to the power of narrative. Her discovery of early 20th century union struggles, like those protecting hoboes from violent railroad enforcers, ignited the Sage Adair series. With Portland as her backdrop, she found the perfect stage to explore America’s first progressive revolution.
S.L. Stoner’s Unforgettable Stories
The Sage Adair Historical Mysteries, set in early 1900s Portland and the Pacific Northwest, are Stoner’s crown jewel. These action-packed novels follow John Sagacity 'Sage' Adair, a restaurateur by day and undercover labor operative by night. Each book weaves real historical events—like land fraud scandals and labor strikes—into gripping murder mysteries. Stoner’s style, described as 'simple and spare,' balances rich historical detail with relentless pacing, making her stories both educational and unputdownable.
Key works include Timber Beasts (2010), the series opener, where Sage tackles a murder tied to Oregon’s land fraud scandal, exposing corrupt elites. Dry Rot (2011) dives into a failed labor strike and collapsing bridges, showcasing Stoner’s knack for blending social issues with suspense. Bitter Cry (2019) confronts child labor, highlighting the plight of newsboys, while Unseen (2020) explores the harsh realities of Native American reservations. Stoner’s multi-ethnic, multi-racial casts reflect the diverse coalitions that drove progressive change, earning praise for their authenticity.
Inspired by historian Howard Zinn, Stoner uses fiction to amplify the voices of the marginalized. Her meticulous research, often drawn from original sources like 1900s newspapers, grounds her stories in truth. Reviewers laud her ability to craft 'authentic and well-researched' tales that entertain while reminding readers of the labor movement’s hard-won victories, like the eight-hour workday.
Why S.L. Stoner Matters
S.L. Stoner’s impact lies in her ability to make history resonate with today’s readers. Her novels don’t just entertain; they challenge us to reflect on wealth inequality, worker rights, and social justice—issues as relevant now as they were in 1902. By spotlighting ordinary people’s courage, she inspires modern progressives to keep fighting the 'good fight.' Her series, published by Yamhill Press, has garnered awards, including the 2010 Indie Book Award for Best Mystery for Timber Beasts.
Stoner’s legacy is also personal. Living in Portland with her husband and dogs, she balances writing with activism and long walks in the Cascade forests. Her stories remind us that history isn’t just about the powerful—it’s about the everyday heroes who dare to resist. For fans of historical fiction, her work is a treasure trove of insight and adventure.
- Key Works: Timber Beasts, Dry Rot, Bitter Cry, Unseen
- Awards: 2010 Indie Book Award for Best Mystery (Timber Beasts)
- Hometown: Portland, Oregon
Snag Timber Beasts and dive into S.L. Stoner’s thrilling blend of mystery and history! Whether you’re a history buff or a mystery lover, her stories will keep you hooked and inspired.