Hancock Instructor Publishes New Thriller Novel
OCOTBER 9, 2025-- Allan Hancock College adjunct English instructor Patrick Shattuck has published his latest novel, Sea of Glass, a contemporary thriller infused with elements of magical realism.
The book tells the story of Shannon Delaney, a teenager overshadowed by her brilliant twin sister and caught in a web of secrets, shifting loyalties and a mysterious glowing glass orb that reveals haunting visions of love, loss and truth.
“I’ve always been a storyteller—I was that kid in class who everyone wanted to hear read first,” said Shattuck. “Now, as both a teacher and writer, I still love creating stories that keep readers turning the pages and looking for what comes next.”
Shattuck, who has taught English courses at Hancock since 2015, said his inspiration for the novel grew out of a single line that came to him while writing: “Shannon’s jealous of her sister.” From there, the story unfolded into a tale that blends the anxieties of modern adolescence with echoes of Irish folklore.
Shattuck has long gravitated toward suspense and mystery in his writing. His first book, Dawn’s Web, was based on a real-life crime in New York City, but Sea of Glass takes a more fantastic approach. Drawing on influences from Tolkien and other fantasy writers, along with his own heritage, he uses magical realism to explore themes of identity, insecurity and resilience.
In addition to teaching English at Hancock, Shattuck also teaches full-time at Santa Ynez Valley Union High School. He said his experiences as both a teacher and writer shape the way he approaches the subject in the classroom.
“My students know I’m out there writing and revising just like any author,” he said. “That makes the process real for them and helps them see their own writing as a craft worth pursuing.”
Sea of Glass is now available in print and digital formats through Amazon and other booksellers.
