I met Lizzy Armentrout over a year ago when I entered into the world of Twitter. She had just published her first novel A Vengeful Spirit – a christian murder mystery. Although we have never met in person, nor have we even talked on the phone her warmth and sincerity are felt with every word she types, and I am happy to call her a friend.
Lizzy is currently working on the sequel to A Vengeful Spirit which I hope will be released soon. You can read the first three chapters of A Vengeful Spirit on her website, or the first chapter of her sequel. You can also follow Lizzy on Twitter or Facebook.
To purchase a Kindle version of A Vengeful Spirit visit Amazon: A Vengeful Spirit
or purchase an Autographed printed copy from her website.
What inspired you to write your first book?
I was inspired to write A Vengeful Spirit because I love reading mysteries and especially Christian mysteries. I don’t feel like there are contemporary mysteries in the Christian market being published often enough.
What was the hardest part of writing your book?
Finding the time to write and putting in enough red herrings to mislead the reader.
How did you come up with the title?
The title is tied into the motive of the murder—that’s all I’ll say on that one!!
Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?
That Jesus is there with us through all of life’s trials, and we can talk to Him at anytime from anywhere.
How much of the book is realistic?
I would say most of the book is realistic. The events could happen to someone; although, I hope they don’t!
Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?
There are portions of the book that are based on real events or life situations that I’ve been through. Shelly’s talk with Tucker about being adopted is based upon adopting my daughter. Nicole’s dad has problems with forgetfulness and remote controls; that is based on life with my father who has Alzheimer’s. Shelly living in a duplex and having people drop in on her is based on the Christian school where I teach.
Do you feel the names of the characters in your novel important?
Not too much. Although the detective, Curly, is named that because of his curly hair.
Are they based on real-people?
The characters are not based on real people but are drawn from people I know. Those who are close to me pick up on some of it as they read. For example, Shelly is based loosely on a friend who teaches but has a lot of my characteristics and characteristics of another close friend of mine. Nicole’s dad is based on my dad. Nicole’s character is a conglomeration of two of my close friends.
Name one entity that you feel supported you outside of family members.
Oh that’s easy—my church and the school where I teach.
If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?
Hmmmm….after making so many revisions that I’ve lost count? I should hope not! I’m very pleased with the final version.
How would you feel is someone reacted negatively to your books?
It would hurt because my writing is really a reflection of me so it would feel like they were reacting to me, but I also know that I don’t like everything other author’s write. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion—even when it’s wrong!
Can you share a little of your current work with us?
I’m currently working on book two in the Shelly Gale series and have finished 28 chapters. This book takes place on a cruise and of course, there is a murder! Chapter 1 is already uploaded to my website for those who’ve finished book 1 and want a peek.
Where are you from?
Cortland, Ohio. (Northeastern Ohio)
I know you are a 6th Grade teacher. Can you tell me more about your career, and your “kids”?
I’ve been teaching school for 18 yrs. 1 yr in kindergarten, 4 in 1st-2nd grades, and the rest in 6th grade. I love teaching. It’s my first love and ministry. My students become my kids as I grow to love each of them through the year, and I enjoy watching them change from children into pre-teenagers. There’s no greater joy than seeing a student that I struggled with in 6th grade as he/she grows into an adult and goes on to serve the Lord.
I am sure they offered “suggestions” on your novel. Can you share some of the most memorable comments?
One of my students used my book for her book report. As she was sharing the report with the class, she said that her favorite part was when Shelly was kidnapped. All of my boy students raised their hands afterwards. When I called on them it was to find out that they were shocked that their Christian school teacher had written a book that had kidnapping and murder in it!!
What is new in your life right now?
LOL—what isn’t?! My father has just been moved into a nursing home and my step-mother has currently moved in with some of her family. My 40 yr old brother-in-law just married for the first time. And we (my husband, daughter, and I) are praying about whether we should move or not.
Are you planning any book tours?
Not at this time but am always willing to set up meetings for ladies’ fellowships, book groups, writers’ groups, etc.
How do you feel about being interviewed?
I’m honored and humbled to be asked. I enjoy sharing my love for a good book with others.
BLOG TALK GUEST: Lizzy has graciously accepted our invitation to be a guest on our Radio Blog Talk. I am truly looking forward to her sharing her love of writing and perhaps a sneak preview of her sequel novel. Thank you Lizzy for taking time from your busy schedule to share with us.
