What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write this book?
I have a lifelong interest in Celtic mythology, but this book emerged when my Irish-born-and-raised husband told me stories about his childhood in Limerick. The main character, Bommer, is loosely based on him, and many of the individual anecdotes really happened.
What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
I read across a broad spectrum. While fantasy and science fiction hold a special place in my heart, I also enjoy romances (especially historical romances), mysteries, historical fiction, and cyber-thrillers.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
Too many to make a comprehensive list, but here are the ones that have me the most excited: Which Way to Anywhere by Cressida Cowell, Platform Decay by Martha Wells, The Wild Robot by Peter Brown, Electromagnetic Assault by Bruce Landay, Through the Mountains by Malinda Andrews, The Ghostwriter by E.L. Winters, Mercy in the Mist by Valerie Biel, Musky Run by Jeff Nania, and Usurpation by Sue Burke. I'm also eagerly awaiting Flint in the Bones, the next book in the Eva St. John's Map Runners series, and the final two books in the Fourth Wing series.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
That's a hard question. One of my favorites is early in the book, when Bommer and his friends meet the leprechaun (Fergal Shaughnessy). Tighe, one of Bommer's friends, refuses to believe in either leprechauns or fairies despite obvious evidence. Kev calls on a pact between his family (Kev is from a Traveler, or Pavee, background) and the leprechauns, and Bommer tries to be a bridge between the two of them and get what they need—to get to the place into which his cousin and a fairy disappeared.
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
Not really, though I find I'm most productive in the morning or very late at night.
Do you have a motto, quote or philosophy you live by?
Live fiercely. I don't believe anyone should be held back by other people's expectations of them, particularly with regard to things they "aren't supposed" to do at their age.
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
Don't assume what your friends and family need. Sometimes their needs are not what you expect. Listen to them.
