Susan M. Young Releases Debut Novel Sunsets on the Mountain Offering Lighthearted Comedy in Challenging Times

Susan M. Young, a Holden-based author, announced the release of her debut novel, Sunsets on the Mountain, a fictional comedy that follows residents of a remote mountain town as one innocent mistake sparks humorous misunderstandings and escalating antics. The book offers readers a much-needed dose of laughter in today's fast-paced world, addressing the universal human need for comedic relief and lighthearted entertainment.

Set in the fictional hamlet of Knicker's Notch on Castleback Mountain, the story centers on a community of just 18 residents, including a wandering St. Bernard named Abner. The narrative begins with the arrival of Trevor Doyle, a dedicated police officer, and his pregnant wife, Megan, who move into town seeking a peaceful life. However, Trevor's efforts to introduce law and order collide with the town's laid-back ways, leading to comical situations involving everything from town meetings and leash law debates to chases, mishaps with shotguns, and improvised operations like Boomerang.

The novel fuses slapstick humor with relatable character dynamics, featuring key figures including outspoken local Jake Warner, his practical wife Elsie, nervous obstetrician Lawrence Burroughs, and a cast of quirky neighbors whose interactions highlight the absurdities of small-town living. Young's writing captures the essence of community quirks, from emergency signals via a fire horn to everyday dilemmas that spiral into chaos, creating a narrative that resonates with readers familiar with close-knit community dynamics.

Young emphasized the book's purpose, stating it is her only wish that the reader has a good laugh. She believes everyone these days can always use a good laugh and that this story will certainly make readers smile. This approach to storytelling reflects a growing trend in literature that prioritizes mental wellness and emotional relief through entertainment, particularly relevant given contemporary societal stresses.

Dedicated to her mother, described as an avid reader, my biggest fan, and the BEST MOM anyone could wish for, the book also acknowledges the support of family and friends, including her great-aunt Jo, who encouraged Young throughout the writing process. The novel emphasizes themes of quiet strength, endless love, and the joy found in shared stories, contributing to the broader literary conversation about community resilience and human connection.

Sunsets on the Mountain is available now in print and digital formats through various retailers, making it accessible to readers seeking laughter and light-hearted escapism. The book's exploration of human folly and resilience through comedic storytelling positions it within the tradition of American humor writing while addressing contemporary readers' needs for positive, uplifting content.