Picture a storyteller who conjured a magical Chinatown filled with ghosts, kung fu, and ancient Chinese folklore—meet M.H. Boroson! This urban fantasy author burst onto the scene with his debut novel, The Girl with Ghost Eyes, a thrilling blend of historical realism and supernatural adventure. With a passion for diverse storytelling, Boroson crafts tales that immerse readers in the vibrant, often overlooked experiences of Chinese American immigrants, all while delivering heart-pounding action and mythical intrigue.
Boroson’s work stands out for its meticulous research and authentic portrayal of Chinese culture, earning praise from readers and critics alike. His stories don’t just entertain—they shine a light on marginalized voices, weaving themes of identity, tradition, and resilience into every page. Ready to dive into his world? Let’s explore the life and legacy of this captivating author!
The Making of M.H. Boroson
M.H. Boroson’s journey to becoming a celebrated author began with a spark of curiosity at age nine. During a lively dinner with a Chinese American friend’s family, Boroson was enthralled by a tale of a fox woman with a magic pearl. This story, rooted in Chinese folklore, ignited a lifelong fascination with Asian mythology. Frustrated by the lack of such tales in libraries, he set out to fill that gap himself. Boroson studied Chinese religion at Naropa University and the University of Colorado, immersing himself in Daoist manuscripts and classic texts like the Shan Hai Jing. His love for Buffy the Vampire Slayer and kung fu movies also shaped his dynamic storytelling style, blending wit, action, and heart.
M.H. Boroson’s Unforgettable Stories
Boroson’s debut, The Girl with Ghost Eyes (2015), introduces Xian Li-lin, a fierce Daoist priestess with the ability to see the spirit world. Set in San Francisco’s Chinatown in 1898, the novel follows Li-lin as she battles evil spirits, gangsters, and a sorcerer’s deadly ritual, armed with martial arts and a wisecracking eyeball spirit named Mr. Yanqiu. Critics hailed its fresh take on urban fantasy, with Publishers Weekly calling it a “brilliant tale of magic, monsters, and kung fu.” The book’s vivid historical setting and authentic Chinese magic captivated readers, earning a starred review and a spot on LibraryReads’ Top Ten Books of the Month.
In 2019, Boroson released the sequel, The Girl with No Face, continuing Li-lin’s adventures as she faces a vampire plant and a scheming Ghost Magistrate. This installment deepens the series’ exploration of Chinese folklore while tackling themes of gender and power in a patriarchal society. Boroson’s writing shines for its lyrical prose, fast-paced action, and nuanced characters, drawing comparisons to Jim Butcher’s Dresden Files and Hayao Miyazaki’s Spirited Away. His meticulous research—spanning thousands of pages of notes and interviews with Chinese American communities—ensures every spell, spirit, and cultural detail feels authentic.
Boroson’s short story, Ride a Mule, also expands Li-lin’s world, offering fans a glimpse into her life post-debut. His ability to blend horror, mystery, and humor while centering Chinese American experiences has made his work a standout in the urban fantasy genre.
Why M.H. Boroson Matters
M.H. Boroson’s impact lies in his commitment to diverse storytelling. By centering Chinese American characters as complex, three-dimensional heroes, he challenges stereotypes and amplifies voices often sidelined in fantasy. His work resonates with readers seeking authentic representation, while its thrilling mix of martial arts, magic, and folklore appeals to a broad audience. The optioning of The Girl with Ghost Eyes for a potential TV series by IM Global TV signals his growing influence. Boroson’s stories not only entertain but also invite readers to explore Chinese culture and the immigrant experience, making him a vital voice in modern fantasy.
- Birthplace: Likely American (exact details unavailable)
- Key Works: The Girl with Ghost Eyes (2015), The Girl with No Face (2019), Ride a Mule (short story)
- Awards: First prize in Colorado Gold and Crested Butte Writers contests for The Girl with Ghost Eyes
- Current Residence: Denver, Colorado, with his wife and three cats
Snag The Girl with Ghost Eyes and dive into M.H. Boroson’s spellbinding urban fantasy today! Trust us, Li-lin’s adventures will keep you up all night, dodging spirits and cheering for her every step of the way!