Picture an American storyteller who turned her grandparents’ WWII love letters into heart-wrenching historical fiction—meet Kristina McMorris! A New York Times bestselling author, McMorris weaves tales of love, resilience, and sacrifice that captivate readers worldwide. From her early days as a child TV host to crafting million-copy bestsellers like Sold on a Monday, her journey is as inspiring as her novels.
The Making of Kristina McMorris
Born in Burien, Washington, Kristina McMorris kicked off her creative career at age nine, hosting an Emmy-winning children’s TV show. Her half-Japanese heritage sparked a love for storytelling, leading her to act in films before diving into public relations and event planning. But it was her grandparents’ wartime letters that ignited her passion for writing, inspiring her debut novel, Letters from Home, and a shift to full-time authorship.
Kristina McMorris’s Unforgettable Stories
McMorris’s historical fiction is known for its emotional depth and meticulous research, often rooted in real-life events. Her debut, Letters from Home (2011), follows a WWII love story sparked by her grandparents’ correspondence, earning a Goodreads Choice Awards semifinalist nod. Bridge of Scarlet Leaves (2012) explores love amid Japanese internment, blending romance with cultural nuance. The million-copy bestseller Sold on a Monday (2018) tackles the desperation of the Great Depression, inspired by a haunting newspaper photo of children for sale. Her recent work, The Ways We Hide (2022), follows an illusionist recruited by British intelligence during WWII, showcasing McMorris’s knack for strong, complex heroines.
Her writing style balances lyrical prose with gripping narratives, diving into themes of loyalty, loss, and human connection. Whether it’s the collaborative novel When We Had Wings (2022) or her upcoming The Girls of Good Fortune (2025), McMorris crafts stories that linger long after the final page.
Why Kristina McMorris Matters
Kristina McMorris has redefined historical fiction by spotlighting untold stories, from Japanese-American experiences to the moral dilemmas of the Depression era. With over twenty national literary awards, including nominations for the IMPAC Dublin Literary Award and RWA’s RITA Award, her work resonates with book clubs, universities, and readers seeking emotional, thought-provoking tales. Her ability to humanize history makes her a beloved voice in the genre.
About Kristina McMorris
- Born: Burien, Washington, USA
- Key Works: Sold on a Monday, Letters from Home, The Ways We Hide
- Awards: Over twenty national literary awards, including a Goodreads Choice Award nomination
- Fun Fact: She once owned a wedding planning company but retired after too many ‘Y.M.C.A.’ dances!
Snag Sold on a Monday and dive into Kristina McMorris’s soul-stirring historical fiction today!