Author Talk with Ashley Baker Wednesday, October 22 at Sharon Forks Library

 

The Ashes of Us by Ashley Baker

Dr. Ashley Baker returns to Sharon Forks Library on Wednesday, October 22 to talk about her latest psychological suspense novel, The Ashes of Us. In this morally complex story, a clinical pathologist taps into his own dark impulses when his daughter asks him to take the life of the man who raped her. 

Dr. Baker says her stories usually begin with an idea: what if a daughter asked her father to do something reprehensible (The Ashes of Us) or what if there was a novel about a killer that didn't focus on the murderer. (The Furious Others) 

As a clinical psychologist, Dr. Baker writes authentically about the stages of trauma. Dr. Baker explains why she feels it's important to show the aftermath of violence. "I know how shaming it can feel when you are associated with violence, even if it's not your fault. It's so easy to fall into the trap of second guessing every decision. I know that's human nature, but I think it's more important to pin blame on those who deserve it - those who perpetrate violence. In our fascination,  sometimes we forget that real lives are impacted by true crime, and it was important for me to showcase that." 

The Ashes of Us follows Dr. Baker’s 2024 supernatural suspense novel, The Furious Others, which reveals the final moments of life for the victims of a violent killer. The book was a finalist in the Horror category for the Story Trade Award and received an Honorable Mention in the Fiction-Horror category in the Readers’ Favorite Award Contest. 

Dr. Baker says she was surprised and humbled to learn that her book was selected for both awards. "As a relatively new author I am continually humbled when people read my works. I'm very grateful, honestly.

Dr. Baker recently got to show off her medals on the festival circuit, meeting readers at events like the Decatur Book Festival, one of the most beloved independent book festivals in the country. On Saturday, November 15th, Dr. Baker will again be signing books at John's Creek Literary Fair. 

Currently Dr. Baker is working on a Southern Gothic novel and a ghost story. She is also planning a memoir, which she feels is the most challenging to write. 

Dr. Baker says she enjoys stories that are dark and twisty and her favorite stories are ones that make you think or feel unsettled after reading them. The Good Father by Noah Hawley was a recent favorite. "I can't say enough good things about it. It was amazing!"

If you enjoy novels of psychological suspense, check out The Ashes of Us and make plans to meet Dr. Ashley Baker at Sharon Forks Library on October 22. Copies of Dr. Baker's books will be available to purchase after the program. 

Alicia Cavitt
Information Specialist