Vernon graduate and author releases two books

VERNON — Former Vernon resident Kelly Hashway is celebrating the Sept. 9 release of two young adult books. "Into the Fire," a romantic fantasy, and "Perfect For You," a contemporary romance, are both written under her pen name Ashelyn Drake and published by Month9Books/Swoon Romance.

A graduate of Vernon Township High School, Hashway has been writing young adult fiction for the past 10 years. Hashway also writes picture books and middle grade novels. As a former middle school language arts teacher, she fell in love with writing for children.

After resigning from teaching, Hashway turned to writing and editing full time. She currently is an editor for Leap Books.

"Being able to spend my days reading and writing is a lifelong dream for me," Hashway said.

"Into the Fire" is about 17-year-old Cara Tillman, a descendent of the mythical phoenix bird who is about to be reborn for the first time. In one month she'll die and forget everyone she loves. Until then, she plans to live life to the fullest, enjoying every look, touch, and kiss from her boyfriend Logan. As her time draws near, so does a hunter, intent on ending the lives of Cara and those like her.

"This book is the perfect blend of my love for fantasy and romance, which is why both my real name and pen name appear on the cover," Hashway said.

"Perfect For You" follows Meg Flannigan who isn't very self-confident after her sophomore-year boyfriend dumped her by kissing another girl in front of Meg's locker. Now a senior, Meg catches the eye of not one, but two gorgeous guys at school. She's torn between Ash, the boy she's been with for nearly five months, and Noah who is pretty irresistible. Pitting two boys against one another, even if she doesn't intend to, could end badly if she isn't careful.

Hashway plans to tour bookstores as well as visit schools. "Into the Fire" and "Perfect For You" are available at all major online retailers.