Kirkyard Moon

by Rhys Shaw

Imagine how surprised 20th century Janet Murray is to meet her 18th century flatmate, Elspeth. It isn’t everyday you discover a spirit lives inside you.

Shy, socially awkward, and confused—Janet is just trying to find a place in the world where she belongs. Performing medical procedures on strangers whilst in a kind of daydream, isn’t helping her confidence at all. Can she tell anyone what she’s going through without them thinking she’s gone mad?

Elspeth endures spousal abuse and is accused of being a witch by those who claim to love her. The women form an unlikely friendship that defies time and death. There is much to learn from one another if they can figure out how to communicate.

Will Elspeth’s history inspire Janet to step outside her comfort zone, learn to trust, and even help others?

Kirkyard Moon is a historical fantasy fiction book bringing two very different women together, all set in the natural beauty and brutal reality of Scotland’s history with witchcraft. Rhys Shaw’s novel blends the plight of women from the past and present day, reminding us of our strength when we support one another.

Buy Kirkyard Moon today in solidarity of women, both living and dead.

Genres: Historical Fiction

267 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 14, 2025

Reviews

[Denise · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book flows, despite changing centuries every chapter or two. Women healers imprisoned, tortured, and burned alive as witches cavorting with satan. As healers, they had a different approach than doctors of the 18th century. Women abused by spouses; call her a witch and try another wife. In 20th century Scotland, before cell phones, internet and home computers, Janet feels isolated, until one incident leads to her becoming a healer. But she never remembers after she saves random lives, nor does Janet have any medical knowledge. What is happening?
A wonderful historical fiction novel.

[Avenna Claire · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the strongest parts of this book is the depth given to its female characters. Janet's struggles with confidence and her social awkwardness made her feel relatable and realistic. Elspeth's story, filled with hardship and resilience, added emotional strength to the narrative. I appreciated how both characters showed courage in different ways. Their personal growth made the story feel empowering and meaningful. Readers who enjoy stories focused on strong female journeys will find this book especially satisfying and memorable.

[Wren Valentino · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kirkyard Moon is a beautifully written blend of historical fiction, mystery, and the supernatural that completely drew me in literally from the first sentence. Switching between 18th-century and late-1970s Edinburgh, the novel skillfully weaves together two unforgettable women's stories.

Rhys Shaw brings Edinburgh to life with such vivid detail that the city becomes a character in its own right. The historical chapters are especially compelling, offering a look at the persecution of women during the Scottish witch trials (such a fascinating topic) while never losing sight of the humanity, resilience, and hope at the heart of the story (there's lots of all three). The contemporary storyline provides an intriguing mystery that unfolds at just the right pace.

The characters feel authentic and memorable, particularly Janet and Elspeth, whose courage and compassion make them easy to root for (especially Janet who is a complex character, which I loved). Shaw's use of Scots language adds richness and authenticity without ever making the story difficult to follow.

Also worth mentioning is the poetic language the author uses to tell this tale. There were many times I went back and reread a section because I was in awe of the beauty of the words.

What impressed me most was the novel's emotional depth. It explores trauma, healing, forgiveness, and the enduring connections that transcend time, all while delivering an absolute page-turner. Fans of historical fiction with a touch of magical realism (or anyone who enjoy stories where the past refuses to stay buried) will find much to love here.

[Carla Hart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kirkyard Moon is the first book I’ve read by Rhys Shaw, and oh, how I loved it! Sometimes timeline jumps irritate me, but the use of them in this book was executed wonderfully, especially the distinct change in language use/dialects between the 18th and 20th centuries (which really helped clarify and track who each chapter was about). We were given characters we could truly care about, and my fondness for them grew with each chapter. We also got a decently well wrapped up story, which I’m always grateful for.

This tale of women overcoming struggles across the centuries is MUCH needed in our current climate, and I highly recommend the read! My witchy heart especially loved all of the healer vibes, witch history, and normalizing of things that many people consider “woo woo” but that have really been parts of our lives for centuries. Extra shout out to the glossary of Scots words at the end. I didn’t need to use it, but thought it was a brilliant addition for anyone who might have struggled with the language. Can’t wait to start the Welexia series now!

[Sally Bond · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rhys Shaw’s latest novel, Kirkyard Moon, is absolutely worth the wait. When I first learned from Shaw’s newsletter about the premise and its Scottish setting, I was hooked. (I’ve traveled around Scotland and immediately fell in love with all of it.) The story absolutely met my expectations, and then some. The dual timeline is very effective. (Sometimes jumping back and forth doesn’t work for me, but this one did. In fact, for me, it became a necessary element for the pace of the story.) Shaw’s characters are well-developed and interesting, and relationships are believable and unique, especially Janet’s and her “flatmate” Elspeth’s. I especially appreciated the inclusion of the Glossary of Scots Words in the back of the book.

Read this book! Place yourself in two different centuries (18th and 20th), observing and walking or running and listening to sounds in Edinburgh and beyond. You won’t be disappointed.

[David P · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shaw's story about a young woman possessed by benevolent spirits, is more than just a wonderful read. She weaves a tapestry of two timelines, Scotland in the 18th and 20th centuries.
In the 18th century we are met with the horrors of witch burnings and the culture which allowed it to thrive. In pre new age/internet 1970’s Edinburgh we see both worlds through Janets eyes.

The comparisons are stark, but in 2025 can we really say we’re doing much better? Instead of witch burnings we now have internet trolls using hatred and abuse, to sometimes fatal ends. Shaw does not ask us to remember the witches who were persecuted, she asks that we remember the women who were persecuted.

As with Shaws previous novels The Welexia series, strong female characters feature prominently, never far from danger, often betrayed but always resilient.

[Alina Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book delivers more than just a plot it offers an emotional journey that slowly unfolds as the story progresses. I enjoyed how the author allowed the characters time to grow and understand their connection. The pacing felt steady and natural, making it easy to stay engaged without feeling rushed. There were moments that felt tense, touching, and even hopeful. By the end, I felt emotionally connected to the characters and their experiences. This is a great read for anyone who enjoys stories that balance emotion with storytelling depth.

[Benson Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

The historical aspect of witchcraft accusations was portrayed with seriousness and emotional depth. The fear, misunderstanding, and injustice faced by Elspeth felt authentic and heartbreaking. It made me reflect on how history has often treated women unfairly, especially when fear and superstition ruled communities. This element added depth to the story beyond its fantasy elements. It felt educational while still being entertaining. Readers interested in historical themes with emotional impact will likely appreciate this powerful aspect of the book.

[Brittany Hassebrock]

The writing style made it easy to picture each scene clearly. Descriptions of Scotland's landscapes, homes, and historical settings added richness to the story. I found myself imagining the surroundings and atmosphere without difficulty. The contrast between peaceful natural settings and darker historical realities created a powerful mood. It felt like stepping into another world while still staying connected to the characters' emotions. Readers who enjoy atmospheric storytelling will likely find this book very immersive and satisfying.

[Annette Summerfield · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love the whole premise of the story. The two datelines and really just everything about it. I really hate to say that I wasn’t enjoying it. I don’t really know why. I just felt kind of bored. This is the type of story that I would really enjoy, but I just don’t seem to be enjoying it. I just feel like it’s dragging or something. I don’t know. Maybe it’s just me.

[Jane · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novel is moved forward by strong female characters. Written in a duel timeline it combines historical occurrences, with magical realism and found family❤️💔. There are trigger warnings relating to domestic violence and the treatment of women by legal systems that do not value healers outside the male dominated medical field (AKA witches). I learned a lot and now I need to visit Scotland!

[Holly Lapole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great story

I really enjoyed this book. It kept me interested and was easy reading. I will be looking for more by this author.