Christian romance author Tracey J. Lyons is a member of Romance Writers of America, American Christian Fiction Writers, and Novelist, Inc. Her latest book is the Amish romance A Love For Lizzie (Love Inspired): They’re childhood friends joined by a painful past—can love blossom between them? In this interview, Tracey shares the inspiration behind the story, reveals how she has been researching the Amish, and theorizes about why Amish stories are so popular…
Tracey, what inspired the story in your novel A Love for Lizzie?
I had a friend who was going through some life changing events, one that would leave her physically changed forever. One thought led to another and the next thing I knew, the germ of an idea for A Love for Lizzie was born. I wanted to write a story about overcoming the things that we have no control over and coming out stronger on the other side.
Tell us about your leading man and leading lady. What about them made you want to tell their story?
Lizzie Miller is a young Amish woman who was disfigured in a tragic childhood accident that left her brother dead. Paul Burkholder is a community member that Lizzie has known her entire life. Paul was also a friend of her brother’s and he feels guilty about what happened that day. Paul has always loved Lizzie from afar. Since the accident she’s kept to herself.
But Paul has never given up on her. No matter what she throws his way, Paul never stops loving her. I love this story about friends falling in love. I wanted to see them realize that with their love they could overcome any obstacle.
What research or experience do you bring to write about the Amish in a fair way?
I’m new to the Amish genre, so I have a long way to go in being anything close to an expert in this area. But I’ve done a lot of research via books, the internet and traveling to the Chautauqua county, southern tier area of New York State where this book is set. I think, as when writing about any culture that is not yours, it should be treated with respect.
I hope that I’ve done this with A Love for Lizzie. There are so many facets to the Amish communities. Each one is slightly different with their lifestyle. I tried to stay true to the settlement in the Clymer, NY region.
What draws you to writing about the Amish?
My background is in writing inspirational, Christian historical romances. I love that in writing about the Amish that I can carry my historical voice, throughout. Though the times are contemporary, their way of life is simplified. I really enjoyed delving into a new to me genre.
Why do you think readers are so drawn to stories about the Amish?
I believe that readers are looking for stories about an easier time than the one we are living in right now. Many of my readers read these books to escape, for a short time, into the world’s we authors create. I think the strong sense of faith, family and community play a huge part in why these books are so popular.
Visit Tracey J. Lyons’ author page:
https://www.familyfiction.com/authors/by-tracey-j-lyons/
A Love for Lizzie
Tracey J. Lyons
Love Inspired