Meet MH Cali
My hearts, I’m thrilled to introduce you to the award-nominated, multi-genre powerhouse, MH Cali! She writes across romance, suspense, thrillers, comics, and graphic novels—with characters as layered and complex as the real world we live in.
Her world is complex and flawed, and so are the characters inhabiting the universes she builds. If you ever read any of her works, you’ll notice that she loves writing layered characters, having a diverse cast, and that to her quiet moments are just as important than action-packed ones.
Storytelling is all about harmony in the emotions and events throughout the narrative. It's her motto.
If she manages to make you feel what the characters are going through, live the events with them, and wonder what is going to happen, then she succeeded.
JEN: You’re nominated for the Indieverse Awards this year—congratulations! Which categories are you up for in 2025? And did you win any in 2024?
MH: Book Of The Year, Best Romance Novel, Hot in Here, Cloud 9, Anti-hero I cheered for, Freshest spin on a trope, Most inclusive cast of characters
JEN: Congratulations! What’s your favorite genre to read? And what do you most enjoy writing?
MH: I honestly love reading all genres as long as the story connects with me. My go-to for writing always has a healthy dose of romance weaved in, but I am a multi-genre author. I also go where the story takes me when I create it.
JEN: Who are some of your favorite authors, narrators, or other creators? Do you have a friendly rival—or an artistic partner who inspires you?
MH: I am lucky to be friends with multiple artists. They all bring so much beauty to the world and they push me to strive to stay true to my voice, especially my bestie Liana. They are such an inspiration. They've always been genuine in their approach to creation, always full of flair and passion, and it's a joy to interact with them on anything creative. Whether it's brainstorming, discussing nonsense about the industry, or sharing ideas, knowing them makes me a better writer.
JEN: Do you like to write with music on, or do you need silence? And what’s on your playlist right now?
MH: I listen to everything, but my go-to usually is alternative, pop, and singer-songwriter. I can work with or without music, but I usually prefer with. I also always create playlists for my books that are made of songs I listened to on a loop while writing. It sets the mood of every story.
JEN: Are you more of a morning bird or a night owl when it comes to writing time?
MH: I think I do my best writing either early in the morning or late at night so I guess I'm a bit of both!
JEN: Let’s talk publishing—are you indie?
MH: I'm an indie author! By choice to be honest. I wanted the freedom to tell stories exactly like I wanted to, and have control over all parts of the journey—from drafting to writing to choosing my editor and my cover artist, etc. Being indie comes with a lot of challenges (::cough:: marketing ::cough::), but overall I think it's worth it to share your vision and creativity.
JEN: What are you working on right now? Any new releases we can look forward to?
MH: I am currently working on three graphic novels, a spicy novelette and three books! I'm very excited about all of them and can't wait to share more!
JEN: What does creating feel like for you—when does it give you energy, and when does it feel draining?
MH: When an idea takes hold in my brain, and I have to sit down and write it, it's like a small rush of serotonin. It instantly energizes me. I'm eager to create in those moments and it makes me happy. Same when I actually sit down to write and enter this world I'm building with the characters who become like a second family for the time of their story. Creating becomes exhausting when I either put too much pressure on myself (I'm pretty good at doing that!) or try to figure out a new way to market my books.
JEN: Where do your ideas usually come from?
MH: The whole world around me is an inspiration so I can't say one thing in particular stands out. It depends on my mood, what I feel like creating, and where my brain takes me!
JEN: What advice would you give to aspiring writers—or even to your younger self?
MH: Don't be too hard on yourself. Remember why you write and enjoy the journey. Your audience is out there, and no matter what people can tell you sometimes, you'll find it! Bad reviews and critics are now a sign that you should stop and that your voice doesn't matter. It just means your work hasn't connected with those people. It will connect with others.
My hearts, that is great advice for anyone! Please connect with MH on her website, Instagram @mhcaliwrites, or Bluesky @mhcaliwrites.com. And be sure to read up so you can vote in November in the Indieverse Awards!
Are you a human author? A human who narrates audiobooks? A human who designs book covers? Or a human who does PR and promotion for other authors? I'd love to interview you, too. Let me know when you’re ready!
