Where awesome book readers meet awesome writers.
Today, we’re delighted to introduce Colin O’Neill, an Irish author whose debut fantasy novel, The Seekers, brings the rich mythology of Ireland to life through adventure, heart, and imagination. Set against the enchanting backdrop of the County Down hills and forests, Colin’s storytelling draws inspiration from his homeland, his family, and the timeless art of Irish folklore.
Meet Colin O’Neill
Colin O’Neill lives in Ireland, surrounded by the beauty of rolling hills, shimmering lakes, and the dramatic coastline of County Down. He is a husband and a proud father of two teenage daughters his “screenagers,” as he affectionately calls them.
His journey as a writer began with poetry, exploring deep themes such as life and death, love and loss, and growing up during the Troubles in Northern Ireland. Writing, for Colin, became more than a hobby; it was a form of personal therapy and reflection.
“I never thought of myself as an author,” he admits. “Writing was my private outlet. I didn’t think anyone else would enjoy reading what I wrote.”
But that changed when he shared his stories with his daughters an experience that led to his first published novel.
About His Latest Book: The Seekers
Colin’s debut novel, The Seekers, is an epic fantasy adventure filled with action, heart, and magic. The story follows two sisters who, while searching for their missing friend, stumble upon a portal to an ancient Irish kingdom. This realm, once full of life, has fallen under the shadow of an evil witch wielding dark magic.
As they journey through this lost world, the sisters must summon courage, faith, and sisterly love to confront the darkness that threatens all hope.
“The story was born one night about ten years ago,” Colin recalls. “I was away from home with my daughters and had forgotten to bring bedtime books. When they asked me to make up a story, I panicked a little but then something magical happened. I began weaving a story about them and the forest where I worked, Colin Glen. They were mesmerized, and that’s when I realized I had something worth writing down.”
That improvised bedtime story eventually evolved into The Seekers, the first installment in The Chronicles of Collin Dubh series.
His Writing Habits and Creative Process
Balancing a full-time job with a growing writing career isn’t easy, but Colin has developed his own nightly ritual.
“I write after everyone else goes to bed,” he says. “Before I start, I take my dog, Milo, for a walk along the dark country lanes. As I walk, I imagine my characters as tiny seeds in my pocket. When I need to figure out a scene, I scatter the seeds on the road and watch them come to life like an old film reel. By the time I get home, the story is ready to write.”
He also sets himself clear goals. “I try to write 1,500 words a day,” he explains. “Sometimes it flows easily in an hour, but other nights it can take three. Either way, I stick with it.”
Authors Who Inspire Him
Colin finds creative influence in both classic and contemporary Irish literature.
He names James Joyce, Joseph O’Connor, and Seamus Heaney among his inspirations. “Their words capture the soul of Ireland,” he says. “Recently, I’ve also been captivated by Donna Tartt. Her writing reminds me of Joyce her descriptions are so vivid they ignite your imagination.”
What He’s Working on Now
Colin is currently finishing the second book in The Chronicles of Collin Dubh series, with plans to release it by summer 2026.
“I’m aiming to have the manuscript done by Halloween,” he shares. “Then it will go through editing and beta reading. I can’t wait to continue the journey that began with The Seekers.”
He also hints that the world of Collin Dubh is far from complete: “There will be a third book. The story still has more to tell.”
Promoting His Work
Like many new authors, Colin admits that promotion can be challenging.
“At the moment, The Seekers is available on Amazon,” he says. “I’m working on expanding to IngramSpark and other platforms. Being self-published means learning everything from scratch, but I’m open to advice from anyone willing to share it. Promotion is tough, but it’s part of the process.”
He’s also found value in author communities like Awesome Gang, which help indie writers connect with readers around the world.
Advice for Aspiring Writers
Although Colin considers himself a newcomer, his advice comes from firsthand experience:
“Find a great editor you can trust. And when you’re writing, don’t edit as you go. Get the story down quickly before your mindset changes.”
He learned that consistency is key. “In The Seekers, I could tell which parts I’d written daily and which I’d come back to after a break. The continuous sections were stronger and needed less editing. Momentum makes all the difference.”
The Best Advice He’s Ever Heard
Colin keeps his favorite advice simple and powerful:
“Just write now and edit later.”
It’s a mantra that keeps him focused and productive, especially during the late-night writing sessions that fuel his creativity.
What He’s Reading Now
Currently, Colin is reading My Father’s House by Joseph O’Connor, an author whose storytelling he deeply admires.
“O’Connor’s writing has such emotional depth and honesty,” he says. “It’s the kind of literature that reminds you why you fell in love with words in the first place.”
What’s Next for Colin O’Neill
After completing the second book in his fantasy series, Colin plans to begin outlining book three and continue promoting The Seekers.
“I’m focused on building momentum,” he says. “Each story adds another layer to the world of Collin Dubh. I want readers to feel like they’re stepping into a living, breathing realm.”
If Stranded on a Desert Island
If Colin could take just one book with him, his choice reflects both humor and literary appreciation:
“I’d bring Ulysses by James Joyce. If I finish reading it before being rescued, it probably means I’m not getting off the island!”
Connect with Colin O’Neill
Learn more about Colin and his magical world:
- Website: Colin O’Neill Official Site
- Amazon Author Page: Colin O’Neill on Amazon
- Goodreads Profile: Colin O’Neill on Goodreads
- Facebook: Colin O’Neill on Facebook
Final Thoughts
Colin O’Neill’s The Seekers is more than just a fantasy novel it’s a heartfelt adventure that blends Irish mythology, family bonds, and the timeless battle between light and darkness.
Through vivid storytelling and emotional depth, Colin invites readers to rediscover the power of hope, courage, and imagination. With his upcoming books in The Chronicles of Collin Dubh, this Irish storyteller is just beginning his journey.
