Launch of Lorraine’s last book
Late author was integral part of Killaloe Writers Group
A tribute to the much-loved local author, the late Lorraine O’Byrne (née Barry) and launch of her final book, ‘I Will Find You’, will take place at the Killaloe Hotel on Saturday, November 18, at 6.30pm.
Lorraine, who grew up in Dromkeen, Co Limerick, had a passion for animals, travelling and writing. Her vivid imagination led her to an intensive creative writing course, which paved the way for her first adult fiction, ‘The Wrath of Voodoo’ released in 2004, a story that delved into the adventures of a young Irish teacher as she embarked on a journey to Kenya.
During this period, Lorraine joined the Killaloe Writers Group, where she honed her creative writing skills under the guidance of David Rice. She became an integral and cherished member of this group, holding deep gratitude for the group’s constant support and affection throughout her writing odyssey.
Lorraine played a pivotal role in introducing the group to the concept of online self-publishing platforms, empowering individuals to publish their own books and advocating for the emerging world of e-books.
In 2012, Lorraine released her debut children's book, ‘The Hippity Dippity Witch’, a heartwarming adventure filled with magic, witches, talking animals which resonated with young readers.
She continued to create enchanting children's stories, including ‘Lucy Pebbles Miracle’, a magical story of a young robin; ‘Escaping the Prince’, a beautiful, enchanted story about fairies and pixies, and ‘Poppy the Cygnet’, inspired by the elegant swans of Lough Gur where Lorraine worked as a tour guide. She also wrote a series of short kids stories.
Lorraine ventured back into the realm of adult fiction with her final creation, ‘I Will Find You’. The novel centres around a young Irish woman, Louisa, compelled into the Galway Magdalene Laundries Asylum nuns due to the societal scandal of unwanted pregnancy.
The novel’s first chapter, titled ‘Pursuit’, made its debut in ‘The Galway Review’ in January 2021, addressing a topical issue that continues to resonate in Ireland. Lorraine had a personal connection to this story, as she was close to an elderly lady who had lived through this traumatic chapter of Irish history.
This novel has been published by JM Agents, Listowel, and can be purchased on all well-known websites and in select bookstores.
In 2021, despite facing a terminal illness, Lorraine successfully completed her Masters in Creative Writing at the University of Limerick with first class honours.
Her tutor during this programme was the bestselling Irish author Donal Ryan, who will also be a guest speaker at the book launch.
Lorraine's relentless enthusiasm and determination, right to the end, served as a powerful testament to her resilience and a profound inspiration for all who knew her.
While this is the final chapter of Lorraine's remarkable writing career, her inspiration, and books, will live on forever, continuing to touch the hearts and minds of all of us.