I’ve been working on a new project called Treasure in Clay, as you can see at the bottom of my sidebar. While I’m not able to disclose many details about this story or when it will release, I CAN tell you that I’m thrilled to be writing a Canadian-set story not too far from where I live in the Kootenay region of British Columbia.
The story takes place on a ranch near a fictional town, so when I had the opportunity last week to drive over, absorb the scenery (though I’ve seen it many times), and take some photos, I eagerly did so. As you can see, I was there, literally, at the crack of dawn!
I really love the ponderosa forests in that area. It’s quite free of underbrush, which I imagine would make it very nice for horseback riding!
Here’s one of the ranches in the area. As you can see, there’s plenty of flat land as well as hills/mountains. So beautiful.
Cattleguards are very common all through the back country in the Kootenays. They allow vehicles to pass through into a fenced area without someone needing to get out to open and close the gate. Cattle won’t step on them, so they are as good as a gate. Often there is an actual gate beside the cattleguard for when cattle need to be moved from one side to the other.
One more photo to show you a hayfield at the base of the mountains. Can you already see the perfect setting for a ranch story? You’ll be glad to know I spent a few hours writing the day of the setting research trip, too. Not often you’ll catch me writing in a coffee shop or restaurant!
