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

ONS Figures Show Fall in Knife Crime Across Wiltshire

Communities across Swindon and Wiltshire are seeing the results of sustained efforts to tackle crime, with new figures revealing a reduction in knife crime and theft offences over the past year.
Wiltshire Council criticises Government decision to revoke development consent order for Stonehenge Tunnel

Wiltshire Council’s Leader has expressed his anger and disappointment at the Government’s plans to revoke the development consent order for the A303 Amesbury to Berwick Down Stonehenge Tunnel scheme.
Driving success for long-standing Old Sarum garage

A well-established Salisbury garage became part of a larger automotive group at the weekend.
Women in Life Threatening Condition After A303 Collision

A woman in her 20s is in a life-threatening condition following a multi-vehicle collision on the A303 near Amesbury.
Dorking down Salisbury at the Ray Mac

Dorking Wanderers secured all three points at the Ray Mac on a damp Saturday afternoon.
Driver arrested after dangerous pursuit from Salisbury

A man is in custody following a dangerous pursuit near Salisbury yesterday evening (30th October 2025).
Military Wives Choir showcase 'A Night to Remember'

The Middle Wallop & Andover Military Wives Choir will take to the stage in the stunning surroundings of the Hayward Hall at the Army Flying Museum in Middle Wallop on Armistice Day – Tuesday 11th November.
Salisbury MP: Why I voted yes to quit ECHR

Salisbury’s MP John Glen has shared why he voted for Nigel Farage’s 10-minute rule motion on the UK leaving the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).