Local authors showcase their work at Christmas market in Kilkenny

A very special event showcasing the work of local authors will take place at the Mountain View Market this Sunday (December 8).

Well known writers, Eimear Lawlor, Helena Duggan, Niamh Boyce and Lizzy Shortall will be located in Santa’s House and will be doing readings as well as book signings from 10am to 4pm and will also be on hand to give a special welcome to Santa Claus who will also be making an appearance.

Eimear Lawlor

Eimear Lawlor is originally from Cavan and now lives in Kilkenny. Her debut novel, Dublin’s Girl, was inspired by her great-aunt Vera McDonnell’s involvement in the Irish War of Independence. The book became a bestseller, reaching the sixth position on The Irish Times bestseller list. In 2024, Lawlor published her second novel, Kitty’s War, set in Kilkenny during World War II. The story intertwines personal struggles with historical events, offering readers a glimpse into life in Ireland during the 1940s.

Helena Duggan
Helena Duggan is an award-winning children’s author from Kilkenny. Her books blend the fantastical with the creepy, creating worlds that are both enchanting and unsettling. The Light Thieves and the Terrifying Dawn was published this September to rave reviews.

Niamh Boyce
Niamh Boyce is an acclaimed writer hailing from Athy and living in the Midlands. Niamh Boyce’s debut The Herbalist (2013) was an Irish Writer’s Centre Novel Fair Winner. An instant bestseller, it also won Debut of the Year at the Irish Book Awards and was nominated for an IMPAC. Her Kind (2019), her second novel, is based on the witchcraft trial of Alice Kyteler. Nominated for the EU Prize for literature She won the Hennessy Award for her poetry, subsequently published in Inside The Wolf (2018).

Lizzy Shortall
Lizzy Shortall is an Irish author and mindfulness trainer originally from Dublin. She currently resides in Kilkenny. Her debut novel, The Lotus and the Tiger, was published in July 2021. The narrative delves into themes of personal growth, grief, and resilience. Shortall has also written a children’s book titled Joy’s Playground, which aims to teach mindfulness, gratitude and self-belief to young readers.