Barbara Longley | History and Inspiration

I've always been fascinated by the concept of time travel. Also, to satisfy my
own curiosity, I've read a lot about differing theories regarding dimensions and
the multi-verse model of reality. Couple that with a deep and abiding
appreciation for the history of Ireland, and a love of Celtic myths and legends,
and how could I not create a romance weaving together all of these intriguing
elements? Blame it on my Irish heritage and an overactive imagination, I guess.

I've visited Ireland twice, and both times I experienced an overwhelming sense
of homecoming. Maybe genetic memory is a thing? I haven't yet explored the
northern half of the island, so I will be going back. In fact, I'd really love
to rent a cottage by the sea there for a summer.

Anyway, while doing research for TANGLED IN TIME, my daughter and I spent two weeks touring Ireland in 2014. It was a happy discovery for me to learn we both share a love for all things ancient and Celtic. We spent fourteen glorious days exploring ruins, museums and landmarks. Many of the sites we visited have been incorporated into Fáelán and Regan's tale, and I'd love to share a few pictures of our trip with you. Three sites stood out for me: Brú Na Bóinne, aka Newgrange, Staigue Fort (a "ring" fort) and Ballycarberry Castle. Newgrange figures significantly in TANGLED IN TIME. It's where our hero and heroine first meet. Regan believes Fáelán is a ghost, but he's far from dead. He's been cursed to dwell in the void realm by a selfish, vindictive fae princess.

Newgrange is referred to as a "passage tomb," but I have my doubts. The ancient
structure is a fascinating feat of engineering genius predating the Egyptian
pyramids. One time per year, during the winter solstice, the sun lines up
perfectly with the entrance, and the entire interior is illuminated with bright
light. There are three chambers inside, and each one holds a slab of stone that
is slightly concave. Tombs? Or . . . was this a sacred place where sacrifices
were made to the gods to ensure a prosperous and fruitful new year. Human
remains have been found within, but no one knows how they got there.

Now, see, stuff like that really stirs my muse. The Hill of Tara is also
marvelous for inspiration, not to mention the site offers an amazing 360° vista
of Ireland's lush, green rolling hills. It is the place where the Tua Dé Danann
(The fae) were banished to dwell beneath the hill (a portal to the void realm, I
imagine.) by the Milesian wizard Amergin. Tara was also the ancestral seat of
the ancient high kings of Ireland. It where coronations took place, and where
the heirs to the throne proved they were the rightful king by making Lia Fail
(the Stone of Destiny) sing at their touch. I touched the stone. It did not
sing. It did not even snort. Ah, well.

There are so many more places I'd love to explore in Ireland. I haven't been to
the northern regions yet, and I look forward to many more "research" visits, and
to the telling many more Celtic inspired tales of adventure and romance.