Thursday, December 15, 2016

Q&A with Liz Keel, author of Enlightenment



Now available from Fire Quill Publishing is the Enlightenment, book one in the Driel Trilogy by author Liz Keel.




The author has taken a few minutes out of her busy schedule for a Q&A about her newest novel.



When did you become interested in storytelling?

Since I was young, I’ve fallen in love with fantasy stories; books like ‘The Enchanted Forest’ by Enid Blyton had me wishing I could be a part of their adventures and meet characters such as Silky and Moonface. Then, when I moved on to C.S.Lewis, I tried so many times to get my wardrobe to transport me to Narnia and wanted to be a part of that world! With so many stories out there set in mystical lands, I spent a lot of my free time day-dreaming of journeying to these other-worldly places; I just loved the idea that maybe there was something else out there and wondered what it would be like to find out you were the special one chosen to go save another world or were more than just human. That’s what first inspired me to become a writer and create my very own mystical worlds.

What was your first book/story published?

The book I’m on this tour with, Enlightenment, (#1 in the Driel Trilogy), a Young Adult Fantasy Romance. Without giving too much away, the story revolves around a girl called Thea who gets thrown into the unknown realm of Faey. Here she is forced to determine the difference between reality and fantasy, in a world ruled by a dark elite and a society wracked by intolerance and prejudice. On this journey, she has the support of her new friends to help her as well as a mysterious dark haired, blue-eyed guardian who watches her every move.

What inspired you to write Enlightenment?

I’ve always loved reading especially the paranormal and fantasy genres, and with so many talented authors out there, over the years they have helped provide inspiration for my own story. I also have a vivid imagination which helps!

What character in Enlightenment is the most/least like you, and in what ways?

I’d say that my personality is similar to Thea’s, the protagonist in the story. Her determination to face what’s thrown at her head-on, and to fight for what you believe in, are ideals I totally agree with.

What is your favorite part in Enlightenment?

There are quite a few but probably when she starts training with one of the Thill guards. Her stubbornness gets her into so much trouble during these sessions and she further doesn’t help herself when she realises she’s falling for him!

What was the hardest part to write?

Definitely killing off one of the characters. They had become someone I was very fond of even though I always knew it had to happen.

What would your ideal career be, if you couldn't be an author?

Well I do have another career! I’m Head Teacher of a primary school. No one day is quite the same as another, and it is often filled with supporting the children’s learning and making sure it’s as fun and engaging for them as possible. I seriously feel I have the best jobs in the world; working in education and writing.

Do you read reviews of your books? If so, do you pay any attention to them, or let them influence your writing?

My publisher warned me about the dangers of getting too hung up on reviews and as a result I have tried not to check too much, especially if I get the occasional negative review. It’s hard not to though especially when you’ve put your heart and soul into a story. When you see how much a reader has loved your story, it’s the best feeling in the world.

What well-known writers do you admire most?

Definitely J.K. Rowling. The way she’s created a whole new world in such detail is awe inspiring and I love how you feel you’re there with Harry as he sets off on his journey of discovery.

Do you have any other books/stories in the works?

I’ve finished writing book 2 – Entanglement and am ready to share it with my editor and then book 3 – End Games I hope to finish the middle of next year.




About the Author: I live in Surrey, England, a short walk from the beautiful Windsor Park, with my husband Richard and our two gorgeous children Noah and Olivia. For me, writing is nothing short of an addiction and I often find myself sneaking out to my writing shed for just a few minutes, which can often turn into hours of pure, unadulterated bliss catching up with my characters and continuing their story.

In-between writing, I teach in a primary school where there’s never a dull moment! I will also often be found Kindle in hand, reading a wide variety of genres but with YA fantasy and paranormal romance at the forefront of my reading list. Although I’m currently writing the second book in the Driel trilogy, other characters involving all things fantasy, paranormal and YA romance are jockeying for position, wanting me to write their story next, so watch this space! It is such a privilege to share my stories with you the reader. Thank you enough for taking the time to find out more about me.

To find out more about Liz, visit her website: www.lizkeelauthor.com

You can follow Liz on Facebook and Twitter




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