Susan G. Mathis 2026 Book Tour
by: Susan W. Smith
Receiving author, Susan G. Mathis', email announcing her 2026 annual visit to the Thousand Islands made me smile. Yes, we know the summer has started when we can welcome a good friend back to the River.
I first wrote about Susan in 2018.
In late July, I met Susan G. Mathis at a Writer’s Day held at the Cornwall Bros. Museum in Alexandria Bay. In June and July, TI Life published two chapters from Susan's popular book. The Fabric of Hope: An Irish Family Legacy. It was then that I that she is an accomplished writer, who is currently writing about the Thousand Islands, her childhood summer home . . .

Since then Susan has delighted her readers by publishing 16 books - yes, 16! This year she will introduce her newest release, Irish Rose Orphans’ Christmas., the heartwarming prequel to her brand-new Thousand Islands Series debuting this fall. Susan writes:
In Irish Rose Orphans’ Christmas, seven young women face a life-changing holiday—their final Christmas together before leaving the orphanage to begin lives of service among strangers during the Gilded Age. Bound by hardship, faith, and an unbreakable promise to remain “forever sisters,” they must confront hidden wounds and uncertain futures as the season of parting draws near. It’s the perfect early Christmas read—and a wonderful gift for historical fiction fans!

This touching novella launches The Irish Rose Sisters: A Thousand Islands Gilded Age Series, where the orphaned “forever sisters” reunite ten years later amid the breathtaking beauty of New York’s Thousand Islands. Journey alongside Annie, Taryn, and Fiona to Friendly Island, Nobby Island, and Westminster Park on Wellesley Island, where love, friendship, and second chances await along the sparkling St. Lawrence River.
Susan sent along the schedule:
July 21, 11 AM–1 PM – Boldt Castle Book Signing
Step into the pages of history at one of the Thousand Islands’ most iconic landmarks. Susan will be signing books at Boldt Castle, where romance and legacy meet. She says "It’s the perfect place to talk about historical fiction!"
July 22, 1–3 PM – Cornwall Brothers Store Museum Author Showcase
Join Susan and other authors for an afternoon of literary fun at the Cornwall Brothers Museum in Alexandria Bay.
July 23, 1–3 PM – Thousand Islands Museum Book Signing
Another exciting stop on her tour. She says "It’s always an honor to be part of this community that celebrates local history."
July 24, 11 AM–2 PM – The Little Bookstore Talk & Signing
Come visit The Little Bookstore at their new shop in Cape Vincent for an extended time together. Susan will give a short talk, answer questions and sign your favourite titles.
July 25 – IHC Reunion Book Signing
Susan writes, "If you’re attending the Immaculate Heart Central (IHC) Reunion, stop by my signing table! It’s a joy to connect with friends old and new."
July 26, Saturday, 1–3 PM – Tibbetts Point Lighthouse Book Signing
She will wrap up the tour with a scenic stop at Tibbetts Point Lighthouse in Cape Vincent. She suggests, "Come enjoy the view and pick up a signed copy of your favorite book."

I look forward to welcoming Susan back to the River. Two years ago, in July 2024, I interviewed her about her book tours. She said:
Q: What’s the best part of your life as an author?
A: I love connecting with my readers, whomever they are. Whether I hear from them in person, through my website or email, on Facebook groups such as 1000 Islands River Rats Now And Then, on Zoom (I love doing book talks and meeting with book clubs), hearing the stories of how my work has touched their lives, keeps me going and helps me remember why I do what I do.
I am sure she will enjoy this tour as much as the others. And for all those interested in learning more about her books and her life, visit her webpage: https://www.susangmathis.com/
By Susan W. Smith, info@Thousandislandslife.com