Saturday 8 November 2014

Christy Nicholas: A Guide to Hidden Scotland

A great big welcome back to Christy Nicholas.

We met Christy back in June 2013 when she released her first travel guide, Ireland: Mythical, Magical, Mystical: A Guide to Hidden Ireland. This book was, and is, a fabulous collection of photos, history, and travel tips for anyone wanting to see Ireland.

Christy isn't your average writer. By day, she's a mild mannered accountant. On her off time, she's an incredibly accomplished beader who sells her designs in craft fairs; she's a talented artist who uses her own photographs and combines them with digital wizardry to create stunning images; and she's a talented writer on top of everything else (I've read some of her fiction too).

Today, Christy releases the second book in her Hidden Guides series, Scotland: Stunning, Strange, and Secret: A Guide to Hidden Scotland.

Like the Ireland guide, readers will find the Scotland guide chock full of wonderful information to help plan a trip to Scotland. This guide has sections for all sorts of Scottish details, from basic travel tips (airfare, car hire, room rentals, etc), to more traditional things like media (books, music, movies/tv inspired by or set in Scotland), bagpipes and traditional dancing, traditional food (yes, there's haggis!), and of course, listings by county (shires) for must see attractions.

This book is a must have for anyone traveling to Scotland, whether you're visiting for traditional attractions or wish to be swept back in time to a land fueled by bigger than life heroes and kilted warriors. And as an ebook, this makes the perfect addition to any smartphone or tablet.

Please join us in the comments where Christy and I will be chatting this afternoon. Feel free to leave your own questions or comments. And as always, there's a free book on offer today. All you need to do is comment with your email address to put your name into the draw for an ebook copy of this book. If you can't wait, just click here to grab your copy.

• • •

Do you find yourself drawn to the magic of Scotland? Would you like to see places beyond the typical tourist traps? Come, join me on a journey through the mists of legend, into the hidden places of mystery. Immerse yourself in the legends and myths, the history that has made this island precious in the hearts and minds of millions. Along with the tales and history, there is practical information on planning your trip, budgeting your costs, and finding the best places to while away the magical hours of your holiday.

Introduction
History and Myth
Superstitions and Beliefs
Gods and Saints
Highland Hospitality
Ceilidhs and Flings
Stunning Shots
Haggis and Cullenskink
Plans and Mechanics
Discounts and Deals
Hidden Gems
Conclusion
Maps and Resources

Scotland – the name conjures visions of tartan covering every surface, hairy Highland cows, the deep glowing gold of a dram of whisky, perhaps even Mel Gibson in blue war paint and a kilt.  But beyond the tourist tat and the tacky gift shops, what is the real Scotland?  What is the soul of the country, the hidden spirit that draws people back?

In this book, I will explore many aspects of Scotland.  I will delve into the history and myths that shaped the culture, as well as the superstitions and beliefs that still hold sway today. Parts of that are, of course, the ecclesiastic traditions, the Highland culture, and the various invasions from Ireland, Scandinavia, and England.  I shall talk about the food, the music, the people, and, of course, the drinks.  Some practical aspects to planning your trip, and your photography, are next, as well as some discounts and tricks to save some money.  And, of course, a nice big section on hidden gems, places off the beaten track, to get away from the busloads of tourists and find your own special places.

• • •

Christy Nicholas, also known as Green Dragon, has her hands in many crafts, including digital art, beaded jewelry, writing, and photography. In real life, she's a CPA, but having grown up with art all around her (her mother, grandmother and great-grandmother are/were all artists), it sort of infected her, as it were. She loves to draw and to create things. She says it's more of an obsession than a hobby. She likes looking up into the sky and seeing a beautiful sunset, or seeing a fragrant blossom or a dramatic seaside. She takes a picture or creates a piece of jewelry as her way of sharing this serenity, this joy, this beauty with others. Sometimes this sharing requires explanation – and thus she writes. Combine this love of beauty with a bit of financial sense and you get an art business. She does local art and craft shows, as well as sending her art to various science fiction conventions throughout the country and abroad.

Find Christy Online --

Website - http://www.greendragonartist.com
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/greendragon9
Facebook-GreenDragonAuthor - https://www.facebook.com/greendragonauthor
LinkedIn - http://www.linkedin.com/in/greendragon9
Tirgearr Publishing - http://tirgearrpublishing.com/authors/Nicholas_Christy

Buy your copy here: http://www.tirgearrpublishing.com/authors/Nicholas_Christy/scotland-guide.htm

Don't forget to leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of this book!

Scotland Guide - Grab your copy here

Ireland Guide - Grab your copy here