An author from Warminster is set to release his second fantasy novel, inspired by local legends.
Ryan J. Hamshaw, a lifelong Wiltshire resident, will release his new book, The Handsel Witches, on 16th September. The novel is the second instalment in his award-nominated fantasy series, Keepers of the Crossing.
Ryan debut novel, The Dark Friars, was released in November 2024, an urban fantasy novel which is currently nominated for Book of the Year and Best Young Adult Novel at the 2025 Indieverse Awards.
Blending local history, queer representation, and fast-paced urban fantasy, the Keepers of the Crossing series is written for upper young adult readers.
The Handsel Witches draws inspiration from legends surrounding Grovely Wood near Salisbury and continues Liam O’Connor’s journey in the fictional city of Sarumbourne.
“It’s been incredible to see readers connect with The Dark Friars all around the world, and to be bringing out the sequel almost a year later feels like a dream,” said Ryan.
“Living here in Warminster, I’ve always been inspired by Wiltshire’s folklore and landscapes – and The Handsel Witches takes that even further.”
Ryan conceived the Keepers of the Crossing series in 2009, while at college, but began writing it during the Covid pandemic in 2020. Despite being dyslexic, he says he has always been determined to tell the stories he’s passionate about. A fan of horror, fantasy, and adventure, Ryan is committed to creating inclusive narratives where LGBTQ+ characters take centre stage.
Copies will be available locally at The Rocketship Bookshop in Salisbury, as well as online from Amazon, The Great British Bookshop, Waterstones, and other retailers. A Kindle edition will also be available.
