MORE ABOUT THE "MY IRISH DOG" SERIES

My writing of My Irish Dog basically evolved by accident. I took a trip to Ireland by myself, because I had always wanted to go there and because I thought I might try some fly fishing. I also needed to just get away.

​

The trip went as planned until near the end when I stumbled upon a stray dog near a small village in the southwest of the country. I spent half a day trying to figure out what to do with her, succeeding at last, but never knowing what really became of her. A strange thing (related to the dog, of course) happened as I left the village that day, and I couldn't get the episode out of my head.

​

So a few days or weeks or I don't remember how long later, the idea came to me that I could write a story. And I did. Small portions of the book are actual occurrences (greatly embellished mostly), and the rest imagination. 

​

The main character and protagonist, Spencer, isn't necessarily based on me. But we do share some quirks, characteristics, and a few other qualities. Writing for his character was easier that way. Perhaps he is someone we can all relate to in one way or another.

​

The second book came to me naturally. I suppose I didn't want the tale to end. I enjoy writing stories with supernatural elements, and I wanted to take things to the next level with Shadows of My Irish Dog. The first book could probably be classified as literary fiction or psychological mystery, while the second fits snugly into the realm of a supernatural/paranormal mystery. I feel it's a page-turner from start to finish.

​

The main two human characters (Spencer and Killian) remain the same, but I wanted to add a familial relationship for Spencer. Enter his estranged daughter, Erica. In her case, I also felt a woman character was important to the story, especially one strong, obstinate, and determined. I think Erica fits the bill perfectly.

 

Finally, Shandy is an integral non-human character in My Irish Dog. I won't tell you her story in detail, but I realized that she needed to reappear in the second book. I found a way near the end. Buster, the new canine introduced  in Shadows of My Irish Dog, takes the spotlight, but he and Shandy form a team that creates a pleasing ending for this sequel.