An Unbidden Visitor: A Tale Inspired by the Coonian Ghost

A short story inspired by Northern Ireland's famous Cooneen ghost.

A tale of family, friends, and fear...

And the unnatural force that threatens to ruin everything...

March 1913: Struggling to make ends meet, widow Bridget Murphy finds life in rural Ireland difficult, raising six children while farming her small acreage. With the help of neighbours and friends, Bridget is able to cope with the many arduous tasks and chores required of her.

When an unnatural and terrifying force invades their house, threatening their family, Bridget is surprised to see so many backs turning on her. Fearing for themselves, those she once counted on for help and support will not risk their safety for her. Father Smyth, their priest, is the only one who stands alongside their family in the battle against the uninvited and fearsome poltergeist. But, prayers alone won't run the farm. Will Bridget find a way to save her home and her family before there's nowhere left to turn?

Dianne Ascroft writes historical and contemporary fiction that have strong Irish connections. Her series, The Yankee Years, is a collection of novels and Short Reads set in World War II Northern Ireland. After the Allied troops arrived in this outlying part of Great Britain, life there would never be the same again. The series weaves thrilling and romantic tales of the people and the era. Her previous writing includes a short story collection, Dancing Shadows, Tramping Hooves and an historical novel, Hitler and Mars Bars. She is an urban Canadian, who has settled in rural Northern Ireland with her husband and an assortment of strong willed animals. Online she lurks at www.dianneascroft.com.