Local author sets debut fantasy novel in Sarumbourne, which is inspired by Salisbury

Tuesday, 22 October 2024 06:00

Wiltshire-based author Ryan J Hamshaw is set to release his debut young adult fantasy novel Keepers of the Crossing: The Dark Friars on 5th November 2024.

The novel, inspired by Salisbury, is set in the fictional city of Sarumbourne, where a group of teens must protect the world from the sinister Dark Friars. Combining local history, magic, and a modern, inclusive narrative, the book is described as Buffy the Vampire Slayer meets Heartstopper.

Hamshaw, a longtime Salisbury resident, said: "Salisbury and Wiltshire’s rich history and folklore have always inspired me. I wanted to bring that sense of wonder into Sarumbourne, where good and evil clash in the shadows."

At the heart of the story is seventeen-year-old Liam O’Connor, one of six Keepers destined to defend Sarumbourne. Alongside a diverse cast of characters, including strong LGBTQ+ representation, Liam faces both supernatural threats and personal challenges in this thrilling coming-of-age adventure.

Ryan’s debut novel, The Dark Friars, is the first book in the Keepers of the Crossing series, an idea he conceived in 2009 but began writing during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Despite being dyslexic, Ryan has always been determined to tell the stories he’s passionate about. A fan of horror, fantasy, and adventure, he is committed to creating inclusive narratives where LGBTQ+ characters take centre stage and are fully represented.

Keepers of the Crossing: The Dark Friars is available to pre-order in paperback online from The Great British Bookshop, Waterstones, Foyles, and Hatchards, with the Kindle edition available to pre-order on Amazon. It will be released on 5^th November 2024.

More from Local News

Wiltshire Conservatives call for urgent Government action over potential fire station closures

Wiltshire Conservatives are urging the Government to intervene after Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS) confirmed proposals to close eight on-call fire stations—four of them in Wiltshire: Bradford on Avon, Mere, Ramsbury, and Wilton.
Nearly 100 arrested as South West police forces unite to tackle illegal drugs and child criminal exploitation

Almost a hundred people have been arrested across the South West after police forces joined together to target illegal drugs and child criminal exploitation (CCE).
Rockbourne Fair celebrates another record-breaking year

The Rockbourne Early Christmas Fair has celebrated another record-breaking year after raising £68,191 for the Stars Appeal, Salisbury Hospital’s Charity.
Collaboration between Police and CCTV put prolific shoplifters behind bars

Two prolific Salisbury shoplifters have been jailed following a collaboration between the police, Salisbury BID, and CCTV.
Tiny Titans Opening at Longleat for Easter

A new interactive experience is coming to Longleat this Easter as Tiny Titans opens to guests.
New Ways to 'Take Part' at Salisbury Arts Centre

Wiltshire Creative, alongside a wide range of local artists, is launching an expanded programme of creative opportunities for all ages at Salisbury Arts Centre.
Salisbury HGV driver urges others to quit this No Smoking Day

A former smoker is supporting Smokefree Wiltshire in urging people to make a quit attempt for No Smoking Day (Wednesday 11 March).
Tyre change excuse leads to £1,000 fly-tipping fine

A Southampton resident has been issued with a £1,000 fixed penalty notice (FPN) after two black bags of household waste were found fly-tipped on a country lane in Burcombe, near Salisbury.