Susan is an editor, writer, and author consultant. She was associate publisher at Abingdon Press in Nashville for over 25 years, acquiring books, plotting publishing plans with authors, and overseeing editorial teams in Christian living, fiction, and video-based Bible studies.
Susan partnered with best-selling Christian author Adam Hamilton through 20 books, including The Journey, Enough, Half Truths, and Creed. She also acquired and developed the New York Times best-selling title Raising White Kids by Jennifer Harvey. Working with Bishop Robert Schnase, they developed a portfolio of content for the successful Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations line. She launched the Abingdon Women Bible Study series with editor and spiritual director Sally Sharpe, growing the line together to 17 authors and 30 studies by 2024.
An avid traveler, Susan loves helping women find the confidence and skills to travel. She has visited six continents and makes one solo adventure every year, writing about the spiritual side of traveling alone. Her writing sidekick is rescue dog Prudence, who always has an opinion
“Susan Salley served as my senior editor and publishing partner for more than 20 books. She is an amazing human being. Thoughtful, kind, and honest, she knows the publishing industry, and she knows the heart of an author. Her counsel and guidance would be a huge asset to any aspiring author.”
—Adam Hamilton, author of more than 30 popular books
“Every author needs a creative advocate who can help them find and share their own voice. Writer, editor, and coach, Susan Salley has the experience and expertise to walk alongside those who have a story to tell. Through navigating tenor and tone, structure and story, Susan leads storytellers from idea to finished offering, bringing author and audience together for the gift of a good story.”
—Matt Rawle, author of The Redemption of Scrooge and The Heart That Grew Three Sizes
“Susan Salley is your trusted ally on the sacred path of storytelling. Whether you’re polishing a manuscript or shaping a persuasive book proposal, Susan illuminates your unique voice and structures your vision, empowering you to connect deeply with your readers and fulfill your publishing dreams.”
—Rachel Billups, author of An Unlikely Advent and Be Bold
“From her lifelong career in the world of publishing, Susan brings both intuitive wisdom and editorial expertise. She knows the nuts-and-bolts of publishing, but more importantly Susan has that remarkable instinct for quality writing that will resonate with readers and make a difference in our world.”
—Ronald J. Greer, counselor, author of The Quiet House and If You Know Who You Are, You’ll Know What to Do
Susan Salley Books