The Dark Friars is Ryan’s debut novel and the first book in the ‘Keepers of the Crossing’ series. Ryan initially conceived the idea for the series back in 2009, but it wasn’t until the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 that he finally found the time to begin writing the first book.
Despite being dyslexic, Ryan has never let it hold him back from telling the stories he’s itching to write. While a fan of various genres, it’s horror, fantasy, and adventure that truly set his imagination on fire.
Growing up, Ryan often felt a disconnect with the characters he encountered in stories. Even today, LGBTQ+ characters rarely take the lead, fall in love, and live their best lives. Ryan aims to change that by crafting stories where everyone can see themselves represented, regardless of who they love or how they identify.
When Ryan isn’t writing, he works in digital marketing for an arts and education charity. In his spare time, he enjoys reading, trips to the cinema, playing badminton, gardening, and walking his dog.
Ryan currently lives in Wiltshire, England, with his husband, Richard, and their energetic springador dog, Bellamy.

You can follow Ryan on Instagram, Threads, and TikTok at @ryanjhamshaw and subscribe to his newsletter at ryanjhamshaw.co.uk