Interview With Author Lisa Betz
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I call myself quietly unconventional, and my journey to authordom fits that description. I started my career as an engineer. At that time, I had no inkling I would ever become a writer.
It wasn’t until the empty nest season of life that I embarked on my third career as a writer and speaker. I’ve written three Livia Aemilia Mystery novels plus hundreds of blog posts and drama scripts, including one full-length melodrama.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest mystery is called An Ode to Poison, and it begins with my sleuth Livia attending a poetry recital. Obviously, the deaths in the book are caused by poison, although Livia didn’t realize it when she wrote her brief ode about poisons in chapter one.
The inspiration for this novel started with a villain from my previous novel, Fountains and Secrets. Gracchus is the arch enemy of Livia’s husband Avitus. In An Ode to Poison, I ratcheted up the tension between Avitus and Gracchus. Then I challenged myself to create a situation where Avitus and Livia are forced to choose between retribution and granting mercy to their enemy. Which will they choose? And why?
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I compose new scenes at the computer, but then I print out the draft and edit on paper, using a mechanical pencil. I don’t know why, but I edit better with a hardcopy rather than a screen.
I also prefer writing when nobody is in the house. I can’t focus on writing when there are conversations or people distracting me.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
So many good authors have influenced my writing, from Dr. Seuss and Madeleine L’Engle to J.R.R Tolkien and Alexander Dumas. Here are a few that inspired me to write historical mysteries set in ancient Rome: Rosemary Sutcliff, Tracy Higley, Lindsey Davis, and Elizabeth Peters.
What are you working on now?
The next Livia Aemilia Mystery.
The daughter of one of Avitus’s clients has run off and Avitus asks Livia to assist him in finding the girl. The same day, a friend arrives at the house, asking Livia to help her find her missing assistant.
How will Livia find time to investigate two separate cases and take care of increasing responsibilities at home? Neither girl has been seen in any of her usual haunts. How exactly does one locate two stray girls in the teeming city of Rome?
Then a body is found, and suddenly both cases are more serious than anyone suspected.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I enjoy speaking at live events. I get to interact with new audiences and use my passion for teaching. After speaking, I can sell books to attendees.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t do it alone. Even introverts like me need to spend time with other writers. Find a few good critique partners. Join a writer’s group and attend regularly to get to know other writers and learn new things. Attend writing conferences, in person when possible. Conferences are usually the best way to meet people who will help you succeed in this business.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Pick your battles.
You can’t fix everything at once, so focus on the essential issues, the ones worth fighting for. Don’t waste time on the trivial stuff and lose your chance to make a difference where it matters most.
What are you reading now?
At the recent library book sale, I discovered a couple of mystery novels set in 14th century England. They are next on my To Be Read list. I’m always on the lookout for historical mysteries set in unusual periods or places.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’ve been utilizing my writing skills as a public speaking coach. I help clients write their signature speech and then coach them on delivering it. Helping others tell their amazing stories is a rewarding job.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
This is a tough question for a book lover. Fortunately, since I’m good at making up stories, I would be able to amuse myself with my imagination. But in addition to good stories, I’d bring some practical books like the Bible and Surviving on a Desert Island for Dummies.
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