This week marks the near completion of summer. Schools are about to start, life is about to slow down and take a turn down the road of routine. I welcome the change with open arms. This summer has been filled with such incredible events; I've signed with an incredible literary agency, I've had my debut novel released in paperback (To learn more about the book or purchase please click here.), I've finished my second Veela novel, I've sold a novel and novella, and I've just finished writing the rough draft of the first book in my next series (though edits are still in order).I've been so consumed with the events of the summer that I'd like to give my readers a view into the life of my work-in-progress. This new series is centered around the lives of Irish Travellers and their trials as they come to terms with the cultural and social changes that are occurring within their lives, while also dealing with paranormal activities. I can't express how fun this book has been to work on. It's dark, gritty--with unexpected twists and turns, and above all Exciting! (I'll say no more.)The Irish Traveller Series is set in Adare Village, Limerick Co Ireland, which is said to be Ireland's most picturesque village. Below is a cottage in Adare. One can easily see why the village would be given such a title.
Near the village there is a cryptic, mystical, and enchanting Adare Manor, where the majority of the first book takes place. I fell in love at first glance.
Today, I've been working on a particular scene in Lady Caroline's Room, which is said to be the most mysterious and symbolic room of Adare Manor, as it's filled with angels and secrets.
From the pictures, I hope you can tell why I have been a whirlwind of writing this summer--with settings like these it has been easy to be inspired and to fall in love with the Irish Traveller Series. I hope to bring it to you soon! And I hope you enjoy the last bit of summer.Slainte! (Cheers!)
A Paranormal Romance Author's Journey into the World of Irish Travellers
I am working on a novel for a new paranormal romance series. Yes, I will continue the Veela Curse Series. In fact, Book 1, Curse of the Wolf, will soon been made available in paperback as well as a refreshed e-book. I hope the next books in the series will follow suit.Like most writers, I am constantly working. Between promotion, social media, advertising, working with publishers and agents, and writing, my days are held hostage by to-do lists. My favorite activity (aside from writing) has to be the research that is involved in writing my books.I’m always looking for fresh new ideas for the next book. Without giving too much away about the next series I can safely say I’m writing about Irish Travellers. Oh gypsies, you say? Yes, gypsies.
When I began this series I was enamored with the romantic ideal of someone traveling around their country living according to whims and desires. However, I quickly came to find that there is very little research when it comes to their secretive communities. The first thing I have learned is that Irish travellers are not Romany Gypsies. They have a separate language, customs, and traditions. Both groups are referenced to as ‘gypsy’ by the ‘English’ and they do co-mingle, but the most they have in common is a strict set of morals and customs that centers on a strict ‘No strangers allowed’ policy.This means that without becoming an Irish Traveller myself, there is little I can read/research to learn about their culture and language. The door is locked.However, there is a glimmer of light. I have found, and been working with, an Irish Traveller who, to this day, refuses to tell me her name. I am proud to have an ally under their veil. My eyes are being opened to a very different culture than what is being portrayed on “My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding.”Irish travellers and Romany gypsies are a proud people with a fighting spirit. They are fighting a cultural battle that is not being talked about (see Dale Farms) in the main stream media. The most important thing I am learning is that travellers and gypsies are just like us as they try to make enough money to survive, there are a wide variety of character types, and all of them are working to keep their heritage and traditions alive.I can't wait to share more about my current project with you. Keep your eyes peeled, there will be more to come!