Local writer excited about the release of her first novel

CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand - Aug. 3, 2015 - PRLog -- Hayley Barrett’s debut novel, Into Darkness, was released on Friday.  Currently available as an e-book through Amazon, Kobo and iTunes, the print copy will be released through the same stores in six weeks. Barrett, who has lived in Rolleston for eight years, has strong ties with the local community, serving as a member on the Board of Trustees at Clearview Primary and having been heavily involved in fundraising efforts for both Clearview Primary and Burnham Kidsfirst Kindergarten in the past.

Into Darkness is a young adult dystopian novel, although Barrett notes that, “some of the people that have enjoyed it so far possibly can’t be called young any longer!”  The novel is set in the post-apocalyptic New Zealand town of New Phoenix—currently known as Nelson.  Main character, Alexandra Spencer, is found guilty of a crime she did not commit and even her place in the ruling family of New Phoenix can’t save her from her punishment—a year at Elder Grey Detention Centre, a place where many don’t survive.

Although Barrett has always had an interest in writing, she began writing seriously after the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes as a way to get away from the terror they caused. Into Darkness took two years to write, during which time she completed two courses at the New Zealand Writers College, graduating from both with distinction.  “It’s so exciting to see my novel in print—the culmination of a lot of hard work,” Barrett says.

You can find out more at her website www.hayleybarrett.net

Ebook available from Amazon, Kobo, iTunes and Double Dragon Publishing.