Thousand Islands Life, Thousand Islands Inspiration

My thirteenth—yes, 13th!—Thousand Islands story, Julia’s Joy, will be released October 29th.

Writing about the Thousand Islands is a deeply personal endeavor for me, rooted in my lifelong connection to this stunning region of upstate New York. Growing up just a short drive away, I spent countless summers exploring the natural beauty and rich history of the islands, creating a profound bond that continues to inspire my storytelling.

As you know, since the Thousand Islands straddles the US—Canada border, it offers an eclectic mix of landscapes, cultures, and histories. My lifetime experiences—camping, renting cottages, and exploring various islands—have infused me with vivid memories and a sense of nostalgia that permeates my writing. Each visit to the islands provided new adventures and stories, fueling my imagination and prompting the desire to share these tales with a wider audience.

In addition to personal experiences, my passion for the Thousand Islands is enhanced by the fascinating historical narratives that define the region. After writing my debut novel centered around Wolfe Island, I became captivated by the real-life stories of the island owners and the unique events that shaped their lives. This connection to history allows me to weave authenticity into my novels, enriching my characters and plots with genuine historical context.

My annual Thousand Islands Book Tour exemplifies my commitment to immersing myself in the local culture and connecting with fans, friends, and family. These interactions deepen my understanding of the region and its people, providing invaluable insights that enhance my storytelling. Staying at iconic locations like Singer Castle and Casa Blanca not only serves as inspiration, but also allows me to bring these settings to life in my novels.

One of the most compelling aspects of my writing is my unique approach to storytelling. By grounding my novels in real places and true stories, I create a rich foundation for my fictional narratives. The overlay of fictional servants and their experiences adds depth and complexity to the stories, allowing readers to engage with both the historical and imaginative elements. This blending of fact and fiction poses a creative challenge that I revel in, pushing me to craft authentic yet captivating tales.

For me, the challenge of writing about the Thousand Islands is not just about crafting engaging narratives but also about honoring the real stories that inspire me. This dedication to authenticity drives me to conduct thorough research, consult local historians, and delve into archives, ensuring that my novels resonate with both truth and creativity.

In essence, writing about the Thousand Islands allows me to celebrate my roots while sharing the captivating stories of a region rich in history and beauty. My novels serve as a bridge between the past and the present, inviting readers to explore the islands alongside my characters. Through my work, I hope to inspire others to discover and enjoy the magic of the Thousand Islands, just as I have done throughout my life.

My newest novel, Julia’s Joy, is about Sister Island Lighthouse. But the protagonist, Julia Collins, is from Brockville, ON. So, I’ve added a good touch of Canadian history, too. Hope you enjoy it—and all my stories!

About Julia’s Joy:

She came to claim her inheritance, but the mysterious scarred lighthouse keeper makes her question all her plans.

When Julia Collins reluctantly sets foot on Sister Island, compelled by her wealthy grandmother's will, she is intent on claiming her inheritance and moving on. But when she experiences the peaceful, faith-filled island life, and connects with the handsome lightkeeper, William, Julia finds herself confronting her open wounds from her parents' deaths.

William Dodge, lightkeeper of Sister Island, harbors a heart hardened by a past betrayal. Between that and his chronic pleurisy, he wants nothing to do with love. But when Julia arrives on the island bursting with vitality and unconventional notions, William's world is turned upside down. As she chips away at the walls William has built for himself, he finds his reluctance waning.

But just as love begins to blossom between them, Julia is faced with a tempting proposal from a prominent Brockville family. Will she succumb to societal expectations or choose the richness of her island life and the love of the steadfast lightkeeper?

By Susan G. Mathis

Susan G Mathis is an international award-winning, multi-published author of stories set in the beautiful Thousand Islands, her childhood stomping ground in upstate NY. Susan has been published more than thirty times in full-length novels, novellas, and non-fiction books. She has thirteen in her fiction line including, The Fabric of Hope: An Irish Family Legacy, Christmas Charity, Katelyn’s Choice, Devyn’s Dilemma, Sara’s Surprise, Reagan’s Reward, Colleen’s Confession, Peyton’s Promise, Rachel’s Reunion, Mary’s Moment, A Summer at Thousand Island House, Libby’s Lighthouse, and Julia’s Joy, the second in her three-book lighthouse series. Her book awards include three Illumination Book Awards, four American Fiction Awards, three Indie Excellence Book Awards, five Literary Titan Book Awards, two Golden Scroll Awards, and a Selah Award.

Susan is also a published author of two premarital books, two children’s picture books, stories in a dozen compilations, and hundreds of published articles. Susan makes her home in Northern Virginia and enjoys traveling around the world but returns each summer to enjoy the Thousand Islands. Visit www.SusanGMathis.com/fiction for more.

Editor's note: What great Christmas gifts these stories would make to any lover of the Thousand Islands! Maybe check a few gifts off your list early? You can check out all of her stories at https://www.susangmathis.com/fiction-books.