Oh, to be in Castlebar, County Mayo for my Book Launch

Location Book Launch

I planned to host a location book launch for Death at Ashford Castle http://www.martha-geaney.com/books this summer in Castlebar, County Mayo. Because the setting in the Star O’Brien series is real, a location book launch in Ireland matters to me. But as for most, if not all, of us, plans are on hold due to the coronavirus. The Castle Bookshop on Castle Street featured me at the Irish debut of Death on Clare Island last September. And, I’d hoped the Castle Bookshop would do the same again this summer.

The Castle Bookshop

Before I ever wrote a novel, I spent many happy moments in the Castle Bookshop when I’d be on vacation in Mayo. I discovered one of my favorite mother and daughter writing teams, P.J. Tracy, at the bookshop. P.J. Tracy write the Monkeewrench series. The American mother/daughter team published first in Europe before they became popular here. Like most independent book stores, the owners and assistants are familiar faces who are welcoming and ready to answer questions. Even when there’s been a long lapse of time between visits, they recognize and greet you like they just saw you yesterday.

The bookshop which has been around for thirty years also hosts https://www.mayobooks.ie/mayo-books-about-us. Check it out, if you are looking for Irish non-fiction books specializing in County Mayo.

The Other Reasons for County Mayo Book Launch

Selfishly, I wanted my dose of the beautiful Mayo countryside. I wanted to walk along Barney Road and get my morning dose of the fields, the sheep, the mountains, and the sky. I wanted to go for coffee each morning at my favorite haunt when I’m in Ireland, Cafe Rua. But most importantly, I wanted to see my cousins and friends. Just for a wee bit. For I know I must return to my home here in Florida. But for a short time, I want to be in that heavenly space, called Ireland.

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This is it for this week’s blog post. In the meanwhile, let’s keep everyone in our prayers are we deal with this pandemic. And, always keep the luv going.

Martha