Q&A with Ryan J Hamshaw – Author Interview
In this exclusive Q&A, I speak with Ryan J Hamshaw to explore the inspiration behind his writing, his creative process, and the themes that shape his stories. Known for his compelling narratives and deep character work, Ryan shares insights into his latest book, offers advice for aspiring authors, and he gives a peek into what’s next on his literary journey. Don’t miss this engaging conversation with one of today’s most intriguing authors!
About The Author – Ryan J Hamshaw
I asked Ryan a series of questions to get to know him better, the man behind the book so to speak.
Tell us more about you.
My name is Ryan Hamshaw and I’m 34 years old. I’m an independent author living in Wiltshire, UK. I live with my husband, Richard, and dog, Bellamy. I grew up in Salisbury, a medieval cathedral city in south-west England – it’s a huge inspiration for the city of Sarumbourne featured in my book The Dark Friars.
Though I never saw myself as a writer, storytelling has always been part of my life. It began at age 10 when a school homework assignment sparked my creativity, leading to my first short story – a spooky tale that earned me praise and applause. As I grew up, my dreams shifted; I wanted to be a paleontologist, then a filmmaker (the next Steven Spielberg!), which led me to study film and write for my college magazine. After trying scriptwriting at university, I transitioned into marketing and communications in the arts sector. It wasn’t until the pandemic in 2020 that I rediscovered my passion for writing, and The Dark Friars was born.
What are the three items you’d take on a deserted island?
I’d take my grandad’s old World War II multi-tool penknife (it has a spoon and fork too!). I’d take a notepad and pencil so I could still write, but also map out the island. My third item would probably be my relief inhaler – I’m asthmatic!
Who is your biggest role model?
I’d say one of my biggest role models is Ian McKellen. He’s always been inspiring to me, not just for his acting but for how he lives so positively and openly, and uses his voice for good. His advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community and his honesty have really shaped the way I approach my writing and the kind of stories I want to tell.
But I also have a lot of role models right around me – family, friends, people I’ve met along the way. One of those people was Ben, someone I looked after when I worked as a carer in my late teens. Ben had motor neuron disease, and I’ll never forget this moment in his garden one day. He turned to me and asked if caring was what I wanted to do with my life. When I said it wasn’t, he told me, ‘Good. Get out there, see the world, do what you want, because you never know how much time you have.’ Those words have stuck with me ever since. Ben reminds me every day to make the most of life.
Like Gandalf says in The Lord of the Rings, ‘All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us.’ That line sums it up perfectly, and it’s a reminder I try to carry with me every day.
What is your favourite book and who is your favourite author?
My favorite book series has to be The Power of Five by Anthony Horowitz. The first book, Raven’s Gate, came out when I was 14, and I just fell in love with the adventure. Before that, I mainly listened to audiobooks from the local library, but Horowitz’s storytelling really got me into reading physical books. His Alex Rider series also pulled me right in – I spent so much time getting lost in his stories.
These days, I still love a great adventure or an intriguing story. Some recent favourites include books by Mark Dawson, All That’s Left in the World by Erik J. Brown, Wranglestone by Darren Charlton, and anything by Becky Albertalli, to name a few.
Do you prefer e-books, physical books or audiobook?
Physical books are my favourite – there’s just nothing like holding a book in your hands, the smell of the pages, and the feel of turning each one. I also love being able to display a story I’ve enjoyed on my shelf; it’s like keeping a bit of the adventure with me. I do enjoy audiobooks too, though I don’t often find the time to listen to them as I’m usually with company, and when I’m not, I’m writing. As for e-books, I haven’t ventured into that world yet. Maybe one day!
Is writing your full-time profession or a hobby?
Right now, writing is my side-gig, but I’d love for it to become my full-time profession one day. All I want to do is write stories, but life comes with responsibilities, and a steady income is a must for now. So, by night, I’m deep in my fictional worlds, and by day, I work in digital marketing for an arts and education charity. We run a theatre, an outdoor arts festival, and a community outreach program, so even my day job keeps me in a creative environment, which is nice.
What social media platform do you like and use the most?
I enjoy Instagram. It has a great community of writers and readers. It’s the platform I use the most, although I am beginning to branch out into the land of Threads and TikTok – BookTok, I’m coming for you!
You can follow me on Instagram, Threads and TikTok at @ryanjhamshaw
Your Writing Process
Finding a writing process can be difficult, here’s what Ryan J Hamshaw had to say from his expierence.
How do you go about starting a new novel?
I’m not a big planner. With my debut book, The Dark Friars, I had a general idea of where I wanted the story to go, but I mostly just kept writing and let the story unfold naturally. It felt freeing to see where it would lead without too much structure. However, book two in the series – which I’m working on now – has needed a bit more chapter-by-chapter planning to keep track of everything! That said, I always leave some creative space for things to evolve as I go. Having a bit of “wriggle room” in my writing process is essential for me, as it keeps the story feeling alive and spontaneous.
Where do you like to write?
At home, at my desk., usually with a cup of tea and a nice autumnal candle lit beside me. I’m very easily distracted I don’t think I could work anywhere else!
What do you like most about writing?
Defiantly the escape it offers. It’s like reading a book or watching a movie, but with the added thrill of getting to decide what happens in the story! I love creating a world where both I and the reader can step away from reality for a while. Knowing that others might find a bit of solace or adventure in the worlds I create is the best part of the whole experience.
What do you find stops you from writing more?
Great question! Honestly, everything! As I’ve said, I’m easily distracted – my dog needs attention, my husband needs attention, and I often find my stomach wants feeding constantly! As I’m writing this a cute bird has landed on the tree outside my window, and I’ll now spend the next ten minutes admiring it…
But the worst culprit? My phone. I think many of us can relate to that! If I want to have a decent writing session, I have to keep my phone far away, preferably in another room. It’s all about creating a distraction-free zone, which can be a challenge sometimes!
What genres do you like to write and why?
I’m pretty open when it comes to genres – I like to read anything, and I enjoy writing anything too! My true passion lies in horror, fantasy, and adventure because I believe they offer the best escape. Those genres really let my imagination run wild.
That said, I also think what makes a great story is the blend of different elements. I always strive to incorporate a bit of everything, whether it’s comedy, romance, drama, or thrills, no matter what story I’m telling. It’s the mix that keeps things interesting
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to aspiring writers?
Write! I know it sounds cliché, but if you have a story to tell, just start putting it down on the page. The first draft is likely going to be rough, but that’s okay! Without that first draft, you have nothing to work with. Focus on getting the bare bones of your story down without editing, and then you’ll have something to mold and flesh out into a more polished piece. Remember, every great story starts with a first draft!
Showcase Your Book!
Take a look at what Ryan has to say about his debut novel!
How many books have you written and if more than one, what’s your favourite?
I have written one book, The Dark Friars, which is the first book in Keepers of the Crossing – a young adult urban fantasy series with queer rep. I am currently writing book two.
How long did The Dark Friars take you to write?
From start to finish, The Dark Friars took me about three and a half years to write. I actually completed the first draft in about six months during lockdown in the COVID-19 pandemic, which gave me a unique opportunity to focus. However, the subsequent drafts and rewrites took much longer. That was mainly because I had to return to work after the pandemic and didn’t always give myself enough time to write. I also took a break from writing and needed to save up for an editor before I could really dive into the edits.
For book two, I’m being much more disciplined and structured with my writing process. I’m aiming for a release in autumn 2025!
Lastly, what is your favourite thing about being an author?
Getting to write stories that I myself enjoy and yearn for – if anyone enjoys them, that’s a bonus!
Keepers of the Crossing: The Dark Friars is available from 5 November 2024, with the paperback available from The Great British Bookshop, Waterstones, Foyles, Hatchards, Amazon, among others. The ebook is available on Amazon.
Find out more about Ryan and his stories at ryanjhamshaw.co.uk
