Kristina

McMorris

Novelist

NYT Bestseller

Travels from: Portland, OR

“Kristina McMorris was terrific. She was bubbly, fun, and sincere. Learning about her writing pattern and style gave us an appreciation for all the planning and research she put into her books. Her side stories were a hoot. She is a warm, caring person. Overall, totally awesome.” — The Benjamin School

Kristina McMorris is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author of two novellas and eight historical novels, including the million-copy bestseller Sold on a Monday. Initially inspired by her grandparents’ WWII courtship letters, leading to her debut novel, Letters from Home, she’s received more than two dozen national literary awards and nominations.

Prior to her writing career, she spent a dozen years hosting weekly TV shows for Warner Bros. and an ABC affiliate, beginning at age nine with an Emmy Award-winning program, and owned a wedding-and-event-planning company until she had far surpassed her limit of “Y.M.C.A.” and chicken dances. She splits time between Portland, Oregon and San Diego as an empty nester of two sons who, even from college, keep her on her toes and make her laugh daily.

In her latest venture, Kristina has joined forces with fellow New York Times bestselling authors Kate Quinn, Stephanie Dray, Allison Pataki, and Madeline Martin to co-host the biweekly video podcast The History Hive Five. Featuring renowned history experts and literary guests revered for in-depth research, the lively show explores secrets of the past—from daring heists and prison escapes to WWII codebreakers and the Soviet Night Witches—with insight, humor, and heart. Learn more at historyhivefive.com.

Kristina's Featured Titles

The Girls of Good Fortune: A Novel

Sourcebooks Landmark |

May 20, 2025

Historical Fiction

The New York Times bestselling author of Sold on a Monday and The Ways We Hide shines a light on shocking events surrounding Portland’s dark history in this gripping novel of love, lore, and betrayal.

She came from a lineage known for good fortune…by those who don’t know the whole story.

Portland, 1888. Amid the subterranean labyrinth of the notorious Shanghai Tunnels, a woman awakens in an underground cell, drugged and disguised. Celia soon realizes she’s a “shanghaied” victim on the verge of being shipped off as forced labor, leaving behind those she loves most. Although well accustomed to adapting for survival―being half-Chinese, passing as white during an era fraught with anti-Chinese sentiment―she fears that far more than her own fate hangs in the balance.

As she pieces together the twisting path that led to her abduction, from serving as a maid for the family of a dubious mayor to becoming entwined in the case of a goldminers’ massacre, revelations emerge of a child left in peril. Desperate, Celia must find a way to escape and return to a place where unearthed secrets can prove deadlier than the dark recesses of Chinatown.

A captivating tale of resilience and hope, The Girls of Good Fortune explores the complexity of family and identity, the importance of stories that echo through generations, and the power of strength found beneath the surface.

Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage, BIPOC Representation, Class & Economic Inequality, Family Narratives, Grief & Loss, Historical Fiction

Ellie Mae Dreams Big!

Sourcebooks Jabberwocky |

January 16, 2024

Children’s

The sister duo of New York Times best-selling novelist Kristina McMorris and award-winning artist Amanda Yoshida makes their collaborative debut with a delightful story of a girl whose big dreams are far from ordinary.

“What do you want to be when you grow up?”

At the teacher’s all-important question, Ellie Mae’s mind swirls with ideas. An astronaut or a chef? Better yet, why not an astronaut-chef? Since the moon is made of cheese, her galactic grilled-cheese sandwiches could be known throughout the universe! Or . . . she could be a ‘ballerina-painter,’ creating masterpieces while leaping across the stage.

In the end, there are so many options, Ellie Mae fears she can’t possibly pick―until the answer dawns on her. What she chooses will surprise her classmates as much as the reader!

Kid-Lit: Picture Books & Early Readers

When We Had Wings: A Story of the Angels of Bataan

Harper Muse |

October 18, 2022

Fiction

From three bestselling authors comes an interwoven tale of a trio of World War II nurses in the Pacific who wage their own battle for freedom and survival.

The Philippines, 1941. When US Navy nurse Eleanor Lindstrom, US Army nurse Penny Franklin, and Filipina nurse Lita Capel forge a friendship at the Army Navy Club in Manila, they believe they’re living a paradise assignment. All three are seeking a way to escape their pasts, but soon the beauty and promise of their surroundings give way to the heavy mantle of war.

Caught in the crosshairs of a fight between the US military and the Japanese Imperial Army for control of the Philippine islands, the nurses are forced to serve under combat conditions and, ultimately, endure captivity as the first female prisoners of the Second World War. As their resiliency is tested in the face of squalid living arrangements, food shortages, and the enemy’s blatant disregard for the articles of the Geneva Convention, they strive to keep their hope—and their fellow inmates—alive, though not without great cost.

In this sweeping story based on the true experiences of nurses dubbed “the Angels of Bataan,” three women shift in and out of each other’s lives through the darkest days of the war, buoyed by their unwavering friendship and distant dreams of liberation.

Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage, Fiction, Historical Fiction, Military & War

The Ways We Hide: A Novel

Sourcebooks Landmark |

September 6, 2022

Fiction

From the New York Times bestselling author of Sold On A Monday—over a million copies sold!—comes a sweeping World War II tale of an illusionist whose recruitment by British intelligence sets her on a perilous, heartrending path.

As a little girl raised amid the hardships of Michigan’s Copper Country, Fenna Vos learned to focus on her own survival. That ability sustains her even now as the Second World War rages in faraway countries. Though she performs onstage as the assistant to an unruly escape artist, behind the curtain she’s the mastermind of their act. Ultimately, controlling her surroundings and eluding traps of every kind helps her keep a lingering trauma at bay.

Yet for all her planning, Fenna doesn’t foresee being called upon by British military intelligence. Tasked with designing escape aids to thwart the Germans, MI9 seeks those with specialized skills for a war nearing its breaking point. Fenna reluctantly joins the unconventional team as an inventor. But when a test of her loyalty draws her deep into the fray, she discovers no mission is more treacherous than escaping one’s past.

Inspired by stunning true accounts, The Ways We Hide is a gripping story of love and loss, the wars we fight—on the battlefields and within ourselves—and the courage found in unexpected places.

“The Queen’s Gambit meets The Alice Network in this epic, action-packed novel of family, loss, and one woman’s journey to save all she holds dear including freedom itself.” — Kristin Harmel, New York Times bestselling author of The Forest of Vanishing Stars

Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage, Fiction, Mental Health & Overcoming Trauma, Military & War

Sold on a Monday: A Novel

Sourcebooks Landmark |

August 28, 2018

Fiction

A NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER WITH MORE THAN A MILLION COPIES SOLD—Sold on a Monday is the unforgettable book-club phenomenon, inspired by a stunning piece of Depression-era history.

2 CHILDREN FOR SALE. The sign is a last resort. It sits on a farmhouse porch in 1931, but could be found anywhere in an era of breadlines, bank runs and broken dreams. It could have been written by any mother facing impossible choices.

For struggling reporter Ellis Reed, the gut-wrenching scene evokes memories of his family’s dark past. He snaps a photograph of the children, not meant for publication. But when it leads to his big break, the consequences are more devastating than he ever imagined.

Inspired by an actual newspaper photograph that stunned the nation, Sold on a Monday has celebrated five months on the New York Times bestsellers list and continues to especially captivate fans of Lisa Wingate’s Before We Were Yours and Kristin Hannah’s The Four Winds.

“A masterpiece that poignantly echoes universal themes of loss and redemption…both heartfelt and heartbreaking.” — Pam Jenoff, New York Times bestselling author of The Orphan’s Tale

Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage, Bestseller, Book Club & Library Favorites, Class & Economic Inequality, Community Reads, Fiction, Grief & Loss, Youth Advocacy

The Edge of Lost

Kensington |

November 24, 2015

Fiction

From bestselling author Kristina McMorris comes an ambitious and heartrending story of immigrants, deception, and second chances.

On a cold night in October 1937, searchlights cut through the darkness around Alcatraz. A prison guard’s only daughter—one of the youngest civilians who lives on the island—has gone missing. Tending the warden’s greenhouse, convicted bank robber Tommy Capello waits anxiously. Only he knows the truth about the little girl’s whereabouts, and that both of their lives depend on the search’s outcome.

Almost two decades earlier and thousands of miles away, a young boy named Shanley Keagan ekes out a living in Dublin pubs. Talented and shrewd, Shan dreams of shedding his dingy existence and finding his real father in America. The chance finally comes to cross the Atlantic, but when tragedy strikes, Shan must summon all his ingenuity to forge a new life in a volatile and foreign world.

Skillfully weaving these two stories, Kristina McMorris delivers a compelling novel that moves from Ireland to New York to San Francisco Bay. As her finely crafted characters discover the true nature of loyalty, sacrifice, and betrayal, they are forced to confront the lies we tell—and believe—in order to survive.

“Will grab your heart on page one and won’t let go until the end.
I absolutely love this book, and so will you.”
—Sara Gruen, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Water for Elephants

“An absorbing, addictive read.”
—Beatriz Williams, New York Times bestselling author

Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage, Civil Discourse & Social Justice, Fiction, Historical Fiction

The Pieces We Keep

Kensington |

November 26, 2013

Fiction

In this richly emotional novel, Kristina McMorris evokes the depth of a mother’s bond with her child, and the power of personal histories to echo through generations . . .

Two years have done little to ease veterinarian Audra Hughes’s grief over her husband’s untimely death. Eager for a fresh start, Audra plans to leave Portland for a new job in Philadelphia. Her seven-year-old son, Jack, seems apprehensive about flying—but it’s just the beginning of an anxiety that grows to consume him.

As Jack’s fears continue to surface in recurring and violent nightmares, Audra hardly recognizes the introverted boy he has become. Desperate, she traces snippets of information unearthed in Jack’s dreams, leading her to Sean Malloy, a struggling US Army veteran wounded in Afghanistan. Together they unravel a mystery dating back to World War II, and uncover old family secrets that still have the strength to wound—and perhaps, at last, to heal.

Intricate and beautifully written, The Pieces We Keep illuminates those moments when life asks us to reach beyond what we know and embrace what was once unthinkable. Deftly weaving together past and present, herein lies a story that is at once poignant and thought-provoking, and as unpredictable as the human heart.

“An expertly woven and richly satisfying work of historical fiction that will touch any reader who has experienced love, loss, tragedy, or the impact of family secrets.” — The Boston Globe

“Gripped me from the first page and didn’t let go.” — Alyson Richman, bestselling author of The Lost Wife

Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage, Fiction, Grief & Loss, Historical Fiction, Military & War

Bridge of Scarlet Leaves

Kensington |

February 28, 2012

Fiction

In this poignant and evocative novel by acclaimed author Kristina McMorris, a country is plunged into conflict and suspicion–forcing a young woman to find her place in a volatile world.

Los Angeles, 1941. Violinist Maddie Kern’s life seemed destined to unfold with the predictable elegance of a Bach concerto. Then she fell in love with Lane Moritomo. Her brother’s best friend, Lane is the handsome, ambitious son of Japanese immigrants. Maddie was prepared for disapproval from their families, but when Pearl Harbor is bombed the day after she and Lane elope, the full force of their decision becomes apparent. In the eyes of a fearful nation, Lane is no longer just an outsider, but an enemy.

When her husband is interned at a war relocation camp, Maddie follows, sacrificing her Juilliard ambitions. Behind barbed wire, tension simmers and the line between patriot and traitor blurs. As Maddie strives for the hard-won acceptance of her new family, Lane risks everything to prove his allegiance to America, at tremendous cost.

Skillfully capturing one of the most controversial episodes in recent American history, Kristina McMorris draws readers into a novel filled with triumphs and heartbreaking loss—an authentic, moving testament to love, forgiveness, and the enduring music of the human spirit.

“Impeccably researched and beautifully written.” — Karen White, New York Times bestselling author

Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage, Fiction, Historical Fiction, Military & War

Letters from Home

Kensington |

February 22, 2011

Fiction

Inspired by her own grandparents’ WWII courtship letters, New York Times bestselling author Kristina McMorris delivers a moving tale of friendship, family, and the twists of fate that change us forever.

It’s 1944, and although foreign battles are escalating, the war seems distant in every way to sensible college student Liz Stephens. That is, until her chance encounter with charming infantryman Morgan McClain at a USO dance in Chicago. Their deep connection feels mutual to Liz, but to her dismay, her bombshell roommate, Betty, is the one who promises to write the deploying soldier.

Singer Betty Cordell delights in the prospect of a dashing serviceman filling her life with adventure, marital bliss, and societal circles outranking her modest roots. It only makes sense for her to beg Liz for help penning an eloquent letter to Morgan, now bound for a dangerous front. After all, she’s certain the beauty of Liz’s ghostwritten prose would ensure a courtship as enviable as their roommate Julia’s relationship with her beloved sailor—and Betty is right, though not how she foresees.

Likewise, Julia Renard’s betrothal is more complicated than it appears. When tempting opportunities arise, the future she always envisioned as a devoted wife and mother risks derailment. And yet, as the Allies edge toward victory, every person—through heart-wrenching choices and life-altering letters—will discover within themselves profound courage, bittersweet hope, and the true meaning of home.

“An absolutely lovely debut novel filled with endearing characters and lively descriptions. Fans of World War II romantic fiction will definitely enjoy this fast-paced story.” — Kristin Hannah, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Nightingale

Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage, Friendship & Community, Grief & Loss, Military & War, Romance & Romantasy

Hidden Tales Of The Shanghai Tunnels And Chinese-American Immigrants in the 1880s

How Monopoly, Illusionists, And The Dutch Resistance Helped Win WWII

The Accidental Author: An Unexpected Literary Journey

The Japanese-American WWII Experience

The Depression, Prohibition, and Shocking Scoops from the Newsroom

Dependable Dozen: 12 Writing Tips I Wish I'd Known From The Start

Innovative Promotion: Creating a "Big Book" Campaign on a Not-So-Big Budget

Fact to Fiction: From Real-Life Inspiration to Hands-On Research

“Kristina is a wonderful presenter who doesn’t tell the audience the story of the novel but gives just enough to encourage everyone to read the book. She is friendly and personable when signing over a hundred books.” — Friends of the College of the Desert Library, 2026

“McMorris deftly weaves a tale about identity, love, and resilience. This poignant story of courage and defiance will please fans of Kristin Hannah and Lisa Wingate.” — Library Journal

“A captivating blend of intrigue and heart, celebrating the resilience of a woman determined to reclaim her life. Richly layered, this novel reminds us that even in the darkest places, light and love find a way to endure.” — Jean Kwok, New York Times bestselling author of Searching for Sylvie Lee

“McMorris is a master in the art of storytelling, weaving a heart-pounding adventure of freedom and survival. With vivid characters and a history long buried now unearthed, The Girls of Good Fortune brings legend to life. A must-read you don’t want to miss.” — Patti Callahan Henry, New York Times bestselling author of The Secret Book of Flora Lea

“In this page-turning, propulsive read, McMorris shines a light on a forgotten corner of America… A gripping tale of family, identity, and redemption that I simply couldn’t put down. One of McMorris’s best yet.” — Fiona Davis, New York Times bestselling author of The Stolen Queen

“A riveting tale of intrigue and illusion, danger and historical mystery, but at its heart the story of one woman’s struggle to escape her own past. While using her remarkable skills to help captured soldiers, Fenna finds herself face-to-face with what she loves most and what she fears most, trapped in a place where each decision she makes could unlock the paths to freedom and a future… or death.” — Lisa Wingate #1 New York Times bestselling author of Before We Were Yours

“Just like her heroine, Kristina McMorris works magic in this twisting tale of James Bond’s Q meets World War II. I love this book!” — Kate Quinn, New York Times bestselling author of The Rose Code and The Diamond Eye

“The Queen’s Gambit meets The Alice Network in this epic, action-packed novel of family, loss, and one woman’s journey to save all she holds dear—including freedom itself.” — Kristin Harmel, New York Times bestselling author of The Forest of Vanishing Stars

“[A] finely told, emotionally satisfying gem of a novel.” —Historical Novels Reviews

“McMorris shines in this poignant and compulsively readable novel about how one reporter’s seemingly small mistake in judgment leads to utter catastrophe for children caught in the jaws of the Great Depression. Based upon a haunting historical photograph, and told with finesse and compassion, this story will linger long after the pages have all been turned.” — Stephanie Dray, New York Times bestselling author of America’s First Daughter and My Dear Hamilton

“The sale of two young children leads to devastating consequences in this historical tearjerker from McMorris… Set against the hardscrabble backdrop of the Great Depression, McMorris’s altruistic and sometimes damaged characters have moral compasses that realistically waver. A tender love story enriches a complex plot, giving readers a story with grit, substance, and rich historical detail.” — Publishers Weekly

“Despite the sensitivity of the subject of missing children, McMorris’ latest is touching and never maudlin. This book may appeal to fans of Lisa Wingate’s Before We Were Yours (2017).” — Booklist

“With her signature style, Kristina McMorris once again plucks a devastating heartstring. Readers are transported through time and place to the desperate days of the American Great Depression. A real-life photograph stands as evidence to the heart of this novel: truth revealed, forgiveness found, and a story never to be forgotten.” — Sarah McCoy, New York Times and international bestselling author of Marilla of Green Gables and The Baker’s Daughter

“Kristina McMorris evokes such a strong sense of place in her writing that to open her books feels less like reading and more like traveling.” — BookPage

Kristina’s Upcoming Events

Kristina in the News

Honors, Awards & Recognition

NYT Bestseller
USA Today Bestseller
Wall Street Journal Bestseller
Globe & Mail Bestseller
Publishers Weekly Bestseller
June 2025 Indie Next Pick
Washington Post Best Read of May 2025
Goodreads Choice Awards 2017 Finalist
IMPAC Dublin Literary Award Nominee
RWA’s RITA® Award Finalist
Target’s Top Five Books of 2022