Road Tripping through Ireland

Okay, so I’m not literally on the road in Ireland right now, but I am traveling via the worldwide web. I pit-stopped in Kanturk and checked out an awesome castle that two of my characters will stop and take a gander at on their trip south. As you can see, they have quite a bit of time to fill.


I love road trips. Always have, and probably always will. One of the things I’ve loved about researching for my latest work in progress (WIP), is that I get to live vicariously through my characters. Though my husband and I have planned two trips to Ireland in the last 3 years, we have yet to make it there due to scheduling conflicts. But it IS our next big trip we have planned. I think I may have a more elaborate travel plan than Brad even realizes due to all my research the last year. One thing is for certain though, and I don’t even have to be there to know, but Ireland is beautiful, and thus far I’ve only encountered extremely friendly people. Both of these factors makes me want to visit even more.

My sources, aka people that provide information in regards to my manuscript, live in various parts of Ireland. Two are in Dublin, one in Cork City, and the other near Shannon. I have one that lives in Greece, but grew up in Ireland. I love picking their brains about local jargon, family interaction, and beautiful hot spots. They are a wealth of information, and I aim to bring their beauty to life in my next series.

One of my other sources is a farmer here in South Texas. Yes, farming in Ireland is different in regards to irrigation and weather patterns, but the overall method is pretty much the same. I’ve watched youtube video after youtube video about Irish farming. I’ve picked my handy farmer’s brain on personal aspects and technical aspects of farming. I’ve even picked my husband’s brain. I’ve interviewed my grandparents in regards to dairy farming, toured the old dairy farm, made friends with some cows, and walked the paths I did as a kid with the fresh eyes of being an adult. All of this has been such an amazing journey for me. I love every minute of researching for a manuscript, but this particular series has required more than others. And I’ve never had a manuscript span so many people from so many backgrounds. It’s truly incredible.

I’ve wanted to write this series for years, and now that I finally am, I cannot WAIT for you guys to read it.

Until then, be sure to check out my other titles if you haven’t already. :) I love them too. Ha!

Happy Reading!
Katharine

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