W hen I began writing over eighteen years ago, I had no idea that it would prove so compelling. In those first heady days I couldn't wait to get home from my job to work on my stories. After eight years I realized my dream of retiring to write full time. A short time later, I sold my first book.

Shortly afterward, I sold a novella and two more books. Then, with the demise of the Bouquet imprint, I decided to switch to writing historical romantic fiction. I'm currently working on a medieval set in 12th century Wales.

I really do have the best of both worlds: a home in the country and a job that lets me go to work in my bathrobe, but that only happens some of the time since I've also become certified in water fitness instruction and teach classes at local swim clubs. In addition, I've discovered a new passion - jewelry design! What started as a hobby making paper bead necklaces blossomed into beadcraft and now wire wrapping. To showcase some of my silver and gemstone creations, I've created a link to my jewelry website,Belle Rustique, where you can view--and purchase--my work.

I still enjoy gardening, cookery, and all things Irish, but most of my hobbies have gone on hiatus while I rush through my busy daily schedule, writing, teaching classes, creating one-of-a-kind jewelry designs,etc. Perhaps someday ...

Since 1975, I've lived in Northern California's Coastal mountains. It's a wonderfully inspiring location and the setting for four of my books. Most days and evenings find me at my computer or jewelry bench, a cup of Earl Grey within easy reach, a sleeping cat at my feet, doing what I love best--creating stories of warmth and passion and designing pendants, earrings and bracelets. My motto is "Don't wait for something; make it happen."

For four and one-half years, I was the About.com Ireland for Visitors Guide until they eliminated my site and 299 others in September 2001. The new Ireland for Visitors site went live a few months later. Here you'll find travel tips, itineraries, a photo gallery, recipes and features on what's best in Ireland. There's also an Ireland for Visitors Forum.

The Four Musketeers - Nov. Romantic Times
Suzanne Barrett, Alina Adams, Alice Chambers & Susan Krinard
(Waldenbooks, Bayfair, San Leandro, CA - 7/22/00)

Hearts at Risk ISBN 0-8217-6735-6 Zebra Bouquet Romances
Click on cover to read an excerpt

"As evocatively romantic as the gardens in which it is set--this book is a gem"
               ~Judy Gill

"Romance at its finest...enough heat and sexual tension to set the pages on fire."
               ~Bookbug on the Web

"A Perfect 10! A a beautifully written romance full of yearning and the discovery of the important things in life. Ms. Barrett's writing is creative and captures your attention with its realistic quality. HEARTS AT RISK is a real page turner and one I am glad to have been privileged to read and review. I very highly recommend HEARTS AT RISK for those of you who enjoy a tender yet heartfelt romance.
               ~Robin Peek for Romance Reviews Today

"Suzanne Barrett pens a light-hearted duel between two determined individuals who discover that love makes a great bargaining tool when there are HEARTS AT RISK (4)."
               ~Teresa Roebuck for Romantic Times

Order Hearts at Risk from Amazon

Wild Irish Rogue
ISBN 0-8217-6649-X Zebra Bouquet Romances
Click on cover to read an excerpt

"Talented Suzanne Barrett presents readers with an engaging romp filled with a zany mix of characters in WILD IRISH ROGUE." (4)
               ~ Teresa Roebuck, Romantic Times

"WILD IRISH ROGUE is a fast paced, heart warming book."
               ~Olivia Holton, A2RB"

"WILD IRISH ROGUE sparkles like fine champagne. It bubbles with wit, charm, and laughter. Light, airy, and delightful, the book entertains--and does it with a sizzling romance between two extremely likable major characters--and delivers a few happy-ever-afters in unexpected places."
4 crescents                        ~Crescent Blues

"Suzanne Barrett once again gifts her readers with a delightful story of wondrous love in WILD IRISH ROGUE. Sprinkling in a touch of mysticism, a dash of humor and a great helping of passion, Barrett has crafted a charming tale, complete with Irish endearments just right for the characters and settings. If you've got even the least little bit of Irish in ye, then pick up this lovely piece of work. It'll charm yer heart!"
                   ~Sharon Chance, Bookbrowser.com

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Taming Rowan ISBN 0-8217-6297-4 Zebra Bouquet Romances
Click on cover to read an excerpt

"A keeper! A winner! Suzanne Barrett's debut novel TAMING ROWAN is why we read romance!"
               ~Gloria Miller, The Literary Times

"Intelligent, well-researched...a runaway read. Ms. Barrett has penned an un-put-downable read. Hero and heroine could teach a Boy Scout a few things about building fires without matches!"
               ~Under the Covers

"Suzanne Barrett is an extraordinary talent, a beautiful, polished writer. TAMING ROWAN is like a breath of fresh air."

Order Taming Rowan from Amazon

Amy's Gift
(A Christmas Bouquet) ISBN 0-8217-6412-8 Zebra Bouquet Romances

Order A Christmas Bouquet from Amazon

Sierra Bride

Can a girl whose life is a lie find love with a man who values truth and integrity above all else?

A Terrible Beauty

In 1916, a courageous band of Irishmen challenged the might of the British Empire.

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