Last updated on May 7, 2026
Being a single mother is hard enough without murderous Fae in your living room.
All that Maura Robinson wanted from her contentious divorce was custody of her two young children—and an Irish castle. Instead, she ends up with her ex’s teenaged kids, plumbing problems, and twelve horned women carding and spinning by her fireplace.
The horned women demand tea, then cake…and then blood. As their hold on Maura increases, the castle itself responds to their battle of wills (and embroidery). Trapped in a storybook nightmare, Maura’s only power is her knowledge of folklore—and grim determination to protect her children.
But is a stepmother’s love enough to save the grumpy teens…or will their new home in Ireland destroy their family?
This novella is perfect for one cozy, creepy reading session. Buy now, to be whisked into the Castle in Kilkenny!
Gold Medal Winner: The Wishing Shelf Book Award, Novelette
Finalist: American Writing Awards, Best Novelette
“OMG!! This is one to read after dark!”
“The Horned Women takes a creepy old Irish fairy tale and spins it into something fresh, smart, and totally charming.”
Available from Kindle, Kobo, Nook, Apple, Google, Smashwords and more. Included in Kobo+. Also included in an omnibus edition, both paperback and e-book. All human created.
Note on coziness/content warning:
“The Castle in Kilkenny: Fairy Tales” are higher stakes cozy fantasy. Some readers find this fairy tale “eerie” while some call it “charming.” All reviews agree that there are unexpected twists and turns but they always have the sense that everything will work out well. The characters confront big feelings around motherhood, belonging, and self-worth. With this entire series, I guarantee happy endings, and the children and animals are always okay.
“Christy Matheson writes with a cozy, heartfelt vibe that makes even the spookiest moments feel grounded and real. … If you like your fairy tales with a bit of chaos, a little magic, and a lot of heart, you’ll love this one.” -Gina Rae Mitchell Book Reviews, 5 star review