I’m Ashley Johnson or Sheyanne Warren. My whole name is Sheyanne Ashley Warren. Johnson is my family name. Originally from Syracuse, New York, I now call Charlotte, North Carolina, home. 
I have a master’s degree in forensic psychology (yes, I’m fascinated by the human mind!) and spend my days shaping young minds as a middle school teacher. But long before I stepped into a classroom, I was a book-loving kid who found magic in words. When I was three, my grandparents took the TV out of my room and replaced it with a bookshelf—best decision ever! From that moment on, stories became my escape, my passion, and ultimately, my calling.
Writing has always been second nature to me, but for the longest time, I didn’t realize becoming an author was actually within reach. It felt like an unspoken dream—something I carried in my heart without fully acknowledging. But now? I’m here, doing the thing I love, and I write with purpose.
Representation matters. It’s not just a phrase; it’s a commitment. I want my readers—no matter who they are or where they come from—to see themselves in the pages of my books. Whether it’s a fantasy world filled with adventure or a gripping mystery with unexpected twists, I write stories that reflect the diversity and richness of real life. Because everyone deserves to be the hero of their own story.
So, if you love books that blend heart-pounding suspense, intriguing mysteries, and unforgettable characters, you’re in the right place. Let’s embark on this literary journey together!
The Journey To Writing
Sheyanne Warren & Ashley Johnson — Two Pens, One Fierce Storyteller
Some authors write one genre and call it a day. Me? I said why not both—and then made two names to prove it. 
Hi, I’m Sheyanne and Ashley. By day, I’m corralling chaos as a special education teacher. By night, I’m building fantasy realms with portals, plotting FBI investigations with serial killers, and wondering why my characters never do what I tell them to. Welcome to my beautiful double life.
Writing didn’t start with a fancy desk or a publishing deal. It started during state testing season, scribbled between breaks that said “maybe this time, I’ll actually finish the book.” Spoiler alert: I did. Then I wrote more. And when my stories split—magic and mayhem on one side, murder and manipulation on the other—I gave each voice its own pen name.
Sheyanne Warren is my YA fantasy side: full of enchanted wardrobes, missing queens, and girls with quiet power and louder purpose. Ashley Johnson handles the crime fiction: raw, bold, and crawling through the shadows with messy women who aren’t waiting around to be saved.
But here’s the thing—I stayed indie. Not because I didn’t get the dream. I get it. Traditional publishing promises bigger advances, bigger reach, and the shiny machine behind it all. But I like the freedom more. The control. The ability to build my world, my way, without gatekeepers telling me to tone it down, “market it safer,” or erase the magic of Black girls leading the charge.
I choose indie because I like calling my own shots. Because I want to tell bold stories without softening the edges. Because I believe authors—especially those of us writing from the margins—deserve ownership of our words and how they reach readers. And yes, indie might take longer. It might be messier. But it’s mine. And I wouldn’t trade that for a royalty check shaped like a leash.
At the end of the day, I write for the girls who needed more than what the shelves gave them growing up. For the ones who want to escape, feel seen, and maybe burn a kingdom or two along the way. My books are love letters, revolutions, and rollercoasters—whether you’re following Sheyanne into a realm of deception and destiny, or chasing killers with Ashley on the city streets.
So grab a drink, I prefer Coffee 😉. Pick your poison. You’re not just stepping into a book. You’re stepping into a world that was built to shake things up—and leave you a little wrecked in the best way.
Approved Photos
Approved Photos
Catalogue
Deceptive High Novels
Deceptive High Novels
Spied
I was hooked from the cover and first page during this book, it had that element that I was looking for and was glad it was so well done. It was a strong start to the Deceptive High series and left me wanting to read more in this world. I was engaged with what was happening with the characters and was everything that I wanted in this type of spy adventure. Sheyanne Warren has a strong writing style and had that concept that I was looking for.
Imagine you’re about to start high school and your parents drop a bomb on you: we’re spies and you’re going to a different high school than you originally thought. Yes, you read that right - this book is about a family of spies! Deceptive High is a place to find yourself, but not just in the way most teenagers do. These teens are about to learn the family trade.
I loved how easy breezy this book was to jump in to. If you pick this up, you will read it quick. The dialogue and discussion is all too familiar (and as a white woman I’m sure I’m missing a lot of nuance that my POC friends would pick up on better). I also really enjoyed that element of something’s going on - I kept trying to figure it out. I won’t spoil anything for you though.
I don’t know about anyone else, but I pictured this family looking like Will Smith and family 😎
This was a quick, fun read for me. Exciting, young adult story with teenage romance, deception, suspense, and magic. I appreciated that the characters dealt with issues I'm familiar with like typical hairstyling woes for black people with kinky or course hair. It was a light read but it did touch on some important topics such as unconventional family types.
What a cool, unique story - a black family of spies, teenagers going to spy school, discovering and trying to master one's magic. I was engaged all the way. I'm looking forward to checking out more of this author's work since this was my first one.
I thought this story was entertaining. Dion and Lanelle are twins that end up going to spy school and have lots of high school high jinks. Had me laughing and groaning at times.
Sorcery & Suspicious Shenanigans
Trouble abounds for all as they deal with high school and new people and then so much more. I found it interesting and entertaining and fun to read. Enjoyed the characters and situations and surprises.
What a cool, unique story - a black family of spies, teenagers going to spy school, discovering and trying to master one's magic. I was engaged all the way. I'm looking forward to checking out more of this author's work since this was my first one.
I liked that there was some character development and world-building that was revisited from the first book in this one for those who hadn't read the first book which I did find helped.
The Jelena Cohert Universe
The Jelena Cohert Universe
Novellas: Maria Dominguez & Jordan Romano
Serial Killer, Con Artist and Jelena
The great plot was well written and the characters were so well developed that as I turned each page the chemistry between the characters kept me totally hooked until the very last page!
This is my first time reading anything by Ashley Johnson. Maria becoming Jelena is a good short novel. However, I do feel that there is enough information that it could have been longer. I'm definitely reading the series.
This is my first time reading anything by this author. It’s a short story but a brilliant read. The story revolves around one main character and the people in her life, especially the males who play such an important but devastating part. I loved reading this story and encourage everyone to grab a copy and take a while to read it. There are possible triggers as there is domestic abuse in this plot.
This novel introduces you to Jelena Cohert she is an investigator with the Special Investigations Division (SID). Jelena has just been given a new case from her boss and now she is searching for a shifter. Jelena becomes involved not only with a shifter but is now investigating a murder and may become involved romantically with another young man. A good read!
This is book 1 from The Jelena Chert Series. This book straights right off with drama in the team and crime is everywhere. The attitude with some of the characters is perfect with the type of book this is. Jelena has so much happened with her detectives and trying to keep everyone from acting like a child. I look forward to see what will happen next. Will there be another serial killer and con artist or something even more dramatic.
This was a strong start to the Jelena Cohert series, it had that element that I was looking for and enjoyed about the psychological thriller genre. I was glad I got to read this and get into this journey. The characters had that overall feel that worked with the world that was built, it left me wanting to read more with these characters. Ashley Johnson has a strong writing style and was glad I got to start reading this.
This is the 1st book I've read written by Sheyanne Warren; she has done a great job at writing a good book; I can’t wait to read more of her books.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the characters.
This novel introduces you to Jelena Cohert she is an investigator with the Special Investigations Division (SID). Jelena has just been given a new case from her boss and now she is searching for a shifter. Jelena becomes involved not only with a shifter but is now investigating a murder and may become involved romantically with another young man. A good read!
Shifter Killer and Jelena
Shifter, Killer and Jelena are book 2 of The Jelena Cohert Series. This book starts right off with the shifters and danger. As I was reading the book the more, I noticed I was on the edge of my seat and lost a good 3 hours of my day. Which I am not complaining. I really enjoy this type of book. You have shifters, detectives, drama, and don't forget killers.
A gripping crime novel. It blends the paranormal with FBI intensity. Well written with a good pace.
I loved the combination of crime fighting and love with an added, surprising twist!!! A must read. I enjoy working with the writer in our profession and now enjoy reading her creativity!
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the characters.
I enjoyed reading the story and was pretty easy to follow. The characters were believable and each had a good backstory to understand the basis of the storyline. Found a couple of errors in the book but I've read books from authors that have been writing for years so that is not an issue. Was not too happy with the ending as in my mind it left a couple of loose ends but a continuation book should clear any of those items. Overall I liked it and would have no problem reading it again or others if there is a series.
Sister Assassins Universe
Sister Assassins Universe
Shifter Killer and Jelena
This was a strong start to the Sister Assassins series, it had that element that I was looking for in this type of book. The characters worked overall and was engaged with how they worked in this universe. Ashley Johnson has a strong writing style and am excited for more.
love how they are portrayed and how the story progressed. I could not get enough of them. This book took me on an exciting journey with no stops.
Johnson’s portrayal of grief, PTSD, and recovery is raw and honest. The assault scenes are difficult to read but never gratuitous—they serve a purpose, anchoring the sisters’ motivations and the story’s emotional depth.
Press Release
Dual Pen Names, Double the Trouble:
Sheyanne Warren and Ashley Johnson Continue to Ignite Fantasy and Crime Fiction
Charlotte, NC – September 2025 — Indie author Sheyanne Warren (YA fantasy) and her darker alter ego Ashley Johnson (crime and romantic thrillers) are giving readers two powerhouse brands under one publishing house—each distinct, each unapologetically bold.
🌟 The Fantasy Realm of Sheyanne Warren
Sorcery & Suspicious Shenanigans — Out Now
Sheyanne Warren’s second Deceptive High novel, Sorcery & Suspicious Shenanigans: A Deceptive High Novel, launched on June 25, 2025, and delivered high-school hijinks laced with curses, crushes, and magical mayhem.
Readers have praised its pace, humor, and character-driven storytelling. One review called it “interesting and entertaining and fun to read.”
Upcoming: Veil of Enchantment
Next up: Veil of Enchantment, a YA fantasy about a teenage girl who enters a prestigious boarding school in a magical realm. Between rivalries, friendships, and the usual teenage chaos, she must also discover her magic and claim her destiny. With rich worldbuilding and relatable emotional stakes, Warren once again blends fantasy with the heart of growing up.
🔥 The Dark Thrills of Ashley Johnson
Sister Assassins: Vigilante — Out Now
Ashley Johnson’s debut in the Sister Assassins series, Sister Assassins: Vigilante, introduces readers to women who don’t play victim—they play to win. This gritty thriller blends danger, vengeance, and unapologetic female power.
Early readers praised the book for its intensity and strong female leads. One Goodreads reviewer raved: “A powerful, fast-paced story that hooks you from the start.” Another noted, “The kind of book that keeps you turning the pages late into the night.”
Sister Assassins: Sinister Seduction — In Development
Building on the explosive debut, Johnson is now working on Sister Assassins: Sinister Seduction, a sequel that dives even deeper into a seductive—and deadly—game of secrets, charm, and survival.
Johnson teases:
“Sinister Seduction is about charm as a weapon, secrets as leverage, and what happens when the hunter becomes the hunted. It’s twisted. It’s intimate. And it’s not for the faint of heart.”
📚 At a Glance
| Pen Name | Title & Status | Genre | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sheyanne Warren | Sorcery & Suspicious Shenanigans – Out Now | YA Fantasy | High-school chaos, curse-breaking, humor and heart |
| Sheyanne Warren | Veil of Enchantment – Upcoming | YA Fantasy | Boarding school magic, self-discovery, teen identity |
| Ashley Johnson | Sister Assassins: Vigilante – Out Now | Crime Thriller | Revenge, survival, unapologetic women with power |
| Ashley Johnson | Sister Assassins: Sinister Seduction – In Dev. | Crime Thriller | Seduction, secrets, survival, morally complex women |
About the Author(s)
Sheyanne Warren writes YA fantasy full of magic, mayhem, and fierce heroines finding their place in the world.
Ashley Johnson delivers dark, high-stakes thrillers centered on powerful women who know exactly how dangerous they are.
Together, they form Forever Seven Press, an indie publishing house dedicated to spotlighting bold, Black voices in fantasy and crime fiction.
Where to Dive In Next:
Sorcery & Suspicious Shenanigans is available now.
Sister Assassins: Vigilante is available now.
Veil of Enchantment and Sister Assassins: Sinister Seduction are on the horizon.
Stay Connected:
Explore both worlds at Forever Seven Press.
Follow the authors on Instagram:
@s.warren.author | @a.johnson.author
Bookish Blogs
Bookish Blogs
Writing Race and Ethnicity Authentically: Lessons from Sister Assassin: Vigilante
https://youtu.be/sYFYJanqeZc Writing Race and Ethnicity Authentically: Sister Assassin: Vigilante When I received this encouraging review, it reminded me why writing race and ethnicity with care matters so deeply: “Sister Assassin: Vigilante is not your average revenge novel, it’s a powerful blend of trauma, healing, and justice wrapped in sisterhood and street-smart determination.”“The story centers on three foster sisters, Nia, Kuan-Yin, and Valentina… Nia builds a mental health nonprofit for women of color, Kuan-Yin becomes a trilingual social worker trying to
The Problem with Publishing Today
https://youtu.be/w-sHMhKvvuk 📚 The Problem with Publishing Today: Hype, Marketing, and the Reality of Viral Books 📚 The publishing industry is in a strange place. On the surface, books are thriving—more people are reading, BookTok is fueling a resurgence in interest, and viral success stories are everywhere. But beneath that glittering exterior, there are cracks in the foundation. Let’s talk about the issues plaguing publishing today, from marketing tactics to the volatile nature of viral books, before diving into some honest
Sequel Reviews and the Audiobook Debate
https://youtu.be/l-dmkDd8-cE If you’re a fantasy book lover like me, then you know the thrill of diving into a sequel that absolutely delivers. Today, I’m breaking down two books that completely blew me away—Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros and Legendary by Stephanie Garber. Both are brilliant in their own ways, and I have so much to say about them. And because I know the debate never ends, we’re also tackling the big question: Do audiobooks count as reading? (Spoiler: YES, they
New Releases | Sinister Seduction | The Manifested Lie
Hey hey y’all, It’s that time again. RELEASE TIME. Here at Forever Seven Press we have a new upcoming release on both sides of the coin. Are you ready? Whether your into young adult portal fantasy for adult romantic crime thriller. We got you covered. Let’s Go! Sister Assassins: Sinister Seduction — Forged in Fire This one lives in tension. A detective is tracking a killer who plans carefully and leaves nothing behind. The case keeps stalling, instincts keep pulling,
My Favorite Fantasy and Romance Tropes
https://youtu.be/EK4if8CV7DQ Hey Hey Y’all. What’s up?! Tropes are like keys to hidden doors in literature. And I am here to unlock a few of them with you. These storytelling elements have been around forever, yet they never fail to lure us back for more. Like wandering through a shadowy library filled with ancient books, there’s something comforting and thrilling about knowing where the story might go, even when it surprises us. Today, let’s chat about some of my favorite tropes
March Reading Wrap-Up
https://youtu.be/iYBUNzHioHY 🌸 March Reading Wrap-Up: 14 Books, Countless Emotions 🌸 This month was a whirlwind of narratives, each offering a unique journey through love, mystery, fantasy, and self-discovery. Here’s an in-depth look at the 14 books that captivated my attention in March, complete with detailed summaries, my personal reviews, insights from fellow readers, and Goodreads ratings. 1. A Love Song for Ricki Wilde by Tia WilliamsSet in the vibrant heart of Harlem, this lush, lyrical love story follows Ricki, a