Picture a Liverpool storyteller who spins gripping tales of war and humanity—meet M.J. Hollows! This bestselling historical fiction author, also known as Dr. Mike Hollows, crafts novels that blend meticulous research with heart-wrenching narratives. From the trenches of World War I to the Blitz-torn streets of 1940s Liverpool, Hollows’s stories captivate readers with their emotional depth and historical accuracy.
But there’s more to Hollows than his books. A passionate advocate for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) awareness and a dedicated academic, he brings a unique perspective to his craft. Ready to dive into the world of a writer who’s as inspiring as his stories? Let’s explore M.J. Hollows’s journey!
The Making of M.J. Hollows
Born in London in 1986, Michael J. Hollows moved to Liverpool in 2010, where he found his creative home. With a background in audio engineering and a lifelong love for history, music, and science, storytelling came naturally. His academic journey—earning an MA in Writing from Liverpool John Moores University and a PhD in Creative Writing—shaped his disciplined yet imaginative approach. Diagnosed with ME/CFS in 1999 and ADHD in 2024, Hollows channels personal challenges into his work, adding authenticity to his characters’ struggles.
M.J. Hollows’s Unforgettable Stories
Hollows’s historical fiction shines for its vivid settings and complex characters. His debut, Goodbye for Now (2018), follows two brothers during World War I—one a boy soldier, the other a conscientious objector. The novel’s raw depiction of war’s toll earned critical acclaim. The German Nurse (2020), a top-ten Globe & Mail bestseller, explores love and moral dilemmas in Nazi-occupied Guernsey, showcasing Hollows’s knack for blending romance with historical tension.
The German Messenger (2023) dives into the Liverpool Blitz, where a journalist faces a harrowing choice to save her son. Hollows’s latest, set for release in January 2025, promises another poignant tale from the World War II era. Beyond historical fiction, he writes science fiction and fantasy for Black Library, with stories like Ashes of Grimnir and The Warp’s Curse, proving his versatility. His style—rich in historical detail, character-driven, and emotionally resonant—makes every page a journey.
Why M.J. Hollows Matters
M.J. Hollows’s impact extends beyond his novels. As a lecturer at the University of Cambridge and Liverpool John Moores University, he nurtures aspiring writers, sharing insights from his own creative process. His advocacy for ME/CFS awareness, inspired by his own diagnosis, sheds light on an often-misunderstood condition, fostering empathy through his platform. By crafting stories that humanize historical conflicts, Hollows invites readers to reflect on resilience and compassion, leaving a lasting mark on historical fiction and its fans.
- Born: 1986, London, UK
- Key Works: Goodbye for Now, The German Nurse, The German Messenger
- Genres: Historical Fiction, Science Fiction, Fantasy
- Notable: Advocate for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome awareness
Snag The German Nurse or Goodbye for Now and dive into M.J. Hollows’s gripping historical worlds! Whether you’re a history buff or a fiction lover, his stories will leave you inspired.