Former Yuman publishes first novel

Former Yuma resident Liz Johnson has penned a novel that promises readers a little romance, a lot of suspense and, of course, a huge heap of hometown pride.

The up-and-coming author, who moved to Yuma at the age of 10, said she feels a strong connection to the city.

"We moved around a lot when I was growing up, so Yuma is really a home for me. I graduated in ’99 from Cibola High. All of my family and friends are there in Yuma - my parents as well as my brother and sister and their families. When I say I'm going home, I still mean I'm going back to Yuma."

Her novel, "The Kidnapping of Kenzie Thorn," is set to be released TuesdayJuly 14.

"It's the story of Kenzie Thorn, who is the governor's granddaughter - the governor of Oregon. She teaches a GED prep course inside a prison complex in Oregon, in a fictional town called Evergreen," the author explained.

"One day she gets a new student named Myles Parsons. He is an undercover FBI agent. It turns out he was placed in the prison to protect her because someone wants her dead."

Before she discovers who he is, Myles is forced to kidnap Kenzie for her own protection. She refuses to be dumped at a safehouse, and together they try to find clues as to why someone wants her killed. Adventures ensue.

Johnson said her passion for literature began at an early age.

"I've always been a big fan of reading and writing. I started reading a lot of fiction when I was in junior high."

After graduating from Northern Arizona University, she worked for the Yuma Sun in the advertising department. Meanwhile, she sought out ways to improve her knowledge about writing.

"During that time I was taking a two-year correspondence course at the Christian Writers Guild owned by Jerry Jenkins, author of the great series 'Left Behind.'"

She said the course made her even more enthusiastic about pursuing her career as a novelist.

"I learned a lot about different types of writing, but fiction was where my heart was."

The writer, who lives in Colorado Springs, Colo., is currently working as a publicist for Random House.

"I get to work with books every day and I love that, but there was always this feeling that I need to be telling stories."

With the support and encouragement of an enthusiastic friend, Johnson began to pursue her dream.

"I sat down and it took me a little over three months to crank out the first draft of my book."

According to Johnson, she knew from the beginning that she wanted her book to be published by Steeple Hill. She sent her story to them, but it was nine months before they were willing to commit to a deal. She finally nabbed the contract last July after several revisions.

Johnson will be signing books at Hastings in Yuma on July 18 from 1 to 3 p.m. She will also be available to sign books at the First Christian Church bookstore on July 19 and 26.

Both signing locations hold a special place in the author's heart. She once worked for Hastings and has considered First Christian her home church for many years.