Writing Crime

Katy Lee's newest book, Amish Sanctuary, released yesterday. She answers our questions about her newest book set within the Amish community.

What was the a-ha moment that made you write this story?

Amish Sanctuary dives into the topic of sexual assault and its affects on a small Amish community. The Amish are a very isolated people with many taboo topics of discussion. A rape would fall under one of these discussions, which doesn’t leave many options for the victim. I write stories of victory and overcoming the odds, and this story is no different.

What excited you most about writing this story?

I was excited to have a baby in the story. Little Chloe is in danger, and it’s up to Naomi to protect her. This innocent child gave a whole other level of suspense to the story because the adult characters had to think of her in every decision.

Who is your favorite character and why?

Widower Sawyer Zook was an Amish character I have wanted to write for a long time. In my research in Pennsylvania, I met a young couple who had both lost their previous spouses early. The woman had a child from her marriage, and the widower stepped in to be a husband and father to them both. I knew instantly I wanted to write that man’s story. And Sawyer Zook was born!

What meal and drink do you think would pair well with your book?

Sticky glazed Amish donuts are a yummy treat with any Amish story to help you get into the character’s world.

Were there indispensable people without whom you couldn’t have written the book?

I met a woman in New Wilmington, PA who took me around to meet many Amish families in their homes and businesses. Her name was Susan, and if you are ever in western PA and would like a little tour, or to eat at restaurant that serves Amish recipes, consider Simple Life Tours and The Tavern on the Square.

Katy Lee has published eighteen thrilling and inspiring mystery and suspense novels. She loves to knit warm woolly things and enjoys traveling around the globe. Katy is a two-time RITA® Award nominee and two-time Daphne du Maurier award nominee for excellence in suspense. She also has multiple award wins, including the Inspirational Reader’s Choice Award and the Selah Award for her suspense novel Blindsided. Her website is KatyLeeBooks.com