Authors! with Susan Zurenda

Join Authors! for a moving and profound evening with Susan Zurenda as she discusses her transformative third novel, No Way Out but Through. Drawing from her extensive background in literature and a life-changing interview with a survivor of child marriage, Zurenda explores the resilience of the human spirit and the power of vulnerability. This event offers a rare look into the meticulous research and deep empathy required to bring such a sensitive and important subject to the page. The evening features a 45-minute presentation followed by an audience Q&A session. Each ticket includes a first-edition hardcover copy of this hauntingly beautiful new work.

Set against the evocative backdrop of Pawley’s Island, South Carolina, and the stark landscapes of 1990s rural Oklahoma, No Way Out but Through is a dual-narrative "frame story" centered on an unlikely bond. When Shannon Irwin, an author grappling with her own family burdens, meets Grace Ferrall, she agrees to chronicle the younger woman’s shocking truth. Grace's story reveals a harrowing past of being manipulated into an abusive marriage at just fifteen years old. As these two women from different generations sequester themselves to complete the book, they must confront their inner demons and the untold stories of their pasts. It is a lyrical tale of survival, trust, and the redemption that occurs when we are brave enough to let ourselves be truly seen.

Susan Beckham Zurenda is an award-winning novelist who dedicated thirty-three years to teaching English at both the high school and college levels. Her debut, Bells for Eli, and its successor, The Girl From the Red Rose Motel, have garnered numerous accolades, including the 2024 Patricia Winn Award in Southern Fiction. Twice a winner of the South Carolina Fiction Prize for her short stories, Zurenda is celebrated for her unflinching yet compassionate portrayals of characters facing extraordinary difficulties. She lives in Spartanburg, South Carolina, where she continues to craft "period-perfect" Southern literature that captures the complexities of the human condition.

Do tickets include a copy of the book? Yes, (1) ticket includes (1) copy of the featured book.

Can tickets be purchased by phone? No, tickets can be purchased online through Eventbrite only.

What are my parking options at the event? The Library has a free underground parking garage. The garage entrance is located on Adams St.

What time do the doors open? General admission seating begins at 6:30 p.m.

Are there assigned seats? No. Seating is general admission. The purchase of a ticket guarantees seating.

Is handicapped seating available? Handicapped seating is available. For special seating arrangements, please call (419) 214-4332 at least one week prior to the event.

Will an American Sign Language Interpreter be provided for the event? We are happy to provide an ASL Interpreter for the event - if you require this service, please contact us at (419) 214-4332 at least two weeks before the event so arrangements can be made.

What can/can't I bring to the event? Please do not bring outside food/beverages. There is no video recording or flash photography allowed.

Will the author hold a book signing after the talk? Yes, the author will be available for a limited signing opportunity after the presentation.

Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event? Yes, tickets will be scanned at the door. Tickets can be scanned from your phone via your Eventbrite email receipt. Please have your device with the Eventbrite email open for scanning at entry. Screenshots cannot be scanned.

Can I get my book if I don’t attend the event? Books may only be obtained at the event. If you are unable to attend, you may give your ticket to someone else to pick it up at the event. Forward them your Eventbrite email receipt so they may collect the book.

What is the refund policy? Tickets will be refunded only if the event is canceled.

Where can I contact the organizer with any questions? Call the Library at (419) 214-4332

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Host or Publisher Toledo Lucas County Public Library