Local author shares her first work of fiction

By Joan Janzen

KERROBERT—Ashley McLean excitedly brought copies of her debut novel, Shadows Between Us, to the Kerrobert Library on Tuesday evening, April 15. Guests came to pick up their pre-ordered copies and listen to the new author from Plenty, Sask., share about her writing journey and explain how it came about.

New author Ashley McLean from Plenty, Sask., was excited to share her debut novel, Shadows Between Us, with friends and family at the Kerrobert Library on Tuesday evening, April 15. PHOTO BY JOAN JANZEN

“I had the idea for the book about four years ago when I was on maternity leave with my first baby,” she recalled. In 2020, she intended to write the book, but it never happened. “So when my third baby came along, I said I’m going to do it!” And that’s how ‘Shadows Between Us’ was born.

Once Ashley started, it only took her four to six months to complete the book. “It’s the kind of book you can unwind with at the end of the day - nothing too heavy, just something enjoyable,” she said. “I wanted to start with something easy and more romantic to ease into the world of writing.”

This busy mom of three has somehow found time to write and can’t wait to share what she’s working on next. She’s already got nine chapters done on her second book and is working on a children’s book.

The idea of writing a children’s book began when her young nephew saw her newly published book and asked his auntie, “Can you write a book I can read?”

Meanwhile, the adults will want to pick up a copy of Ashley’s newly published book. As the book cover states - with hidden twists and unforgettable characters, the story prompts readers to lose themselves in a story that lingers long after the final chapter. It’s a twisted tale of love and betrayal, where trust is shattered and second chances are everything.