The Guild’s base of operations is Guildhall - inspired directly by the real Guildhall in Salisbury, UK. Just like in the book, it can be found in the Market Square, right at the heart of the city. 3/3

In the book, Sarumbourne’s secret organisation - the Guild - are city councillors by day, and guardians of the Crossing by night. Working through the Keeper Sentinel, Nathaniel Thorpe, they direct the Keepers in defending the city from the evils that creep through the shadows. 2/3

It was always a special place to me, and imagining Liam gazing out over those same views made it the perfect home for his story. 4/4

The inspiration came from this beautiful building on Churchfields Road in Salisbury, UK - my very first home! My mum and I lived on the second floor (just like Liam) until I was around three years old. While it used to be divided into flats, it has since been restored to a large family home. 3/4

In the book, their second-floor flat is a 1950s conversion in an old Victorian townhouse. The front windows look out over Sarumbourne train station, while the back (from Liam's bedroom) overlooks the water meadows, with Sarumbourne Cathedral in the distance. 2/4

On top of that, I’m thrilled that TDF has been nominated for seven Indieverse Awards, including Book of the Year! There's lots of promo planned in the coming months, and I can’t wait to see TDF continue to blossom as we gear up for the release of the second instalment!

RJH 💙

Meanwhile, The Dark Friars continues to find new readers every day, and the reviews and messages I’ve received have been beyond anything I could have hoped for.

The Handsel Witches - Book 2 in the Keepers of the Crossing series - has just been through its developmental edit. Now it’s back in my hands, and I’ll be spending the next month or so revising it before it heads off for its copy edit. We're on track for its September release!

I've been using the break to take care of some life admin, do some gardening, and even outline a brand new story (I can’t keep away from my laptop for too long!). More on that at a later date!

For those who backed my Kickstarter, you should have now received a survey via email in order for me to fulfil your rewards when the time comes. Don't miss it 😉

Enjoy the rest of your weekend! 🫶

RJH x

My manuscript for book 2 is currently with my editor, and I should hopefully have the developmental edit back a week tomorrow, ready to begin my next draft.

Thank you! 😊

I am beyond grateful to everyone who pledged, shared, and supported this book. Your belief in this series means everything to me. THANK YOU! 💙

Backers, I’ll be in touch soon to arrange your rewards. But for now… let’s celebrate! 🎊

I’m beyond grateful to see The Dark Friars recognised in not just one, but TWO categories. A huge thank you to everyone who has supported this book - you’re all incredible!

There is so much still to come this year! But for now, I’m just taking a moment to celebrate this milestone! ❤️🖤