Meet Robert W. Mackay

People with the vision to ask 'What if?' and the drive to follow through
By
Dana Lemaster

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Introduction

Please tell us about your current line of work and how you got started in it. Please include any awards or upcoming projects.

I am a writer of military historical fiction. I have three books that have been traditionally published, SOLDIER OF THE HORSE, TERROR ON THE ALERT, and THE FORGOTTEN: A NOVEL OF THE KOREAN WAR. The first two earned gold and silver IPPYs, respectively, and the third was just published in October 2024. My impetus for writing was the 90th anniversary of a famous cavalry charge in World War I where my father was badly wounded, although he lived to a ripe old age. SOLDIER OF THE HORSE is his fictionalized story. I'm currently at work on a story about Canadian forces that were sent to bolster the defenses of Hong Kong just before the Japanese attacked in 1941.

Do you have any mentors or sources of inspiration?

As I said, my father was my source of inspiration for my first book. Later inspiration came from reading about historical events that interested me, as well as encouragement from historian friends. I am a great admirer of the work of Jeff Shaara and his historical novels.

What parts of your work do you enjoy most? Why?

The most enjoyable part of writing is when I can really get into the story, and dig deeper into the background and psyches of my characters.

What are your favorite things to do when you have free time?

I really enjoy getting away from the bustle of the city an strolling on a beach with my wife.

Are there any dream projects you'd like to pursue?

For now, I'm concentrating on the Hong Kong story I mentioned above. I'm in early days, and it's a complex story that I have yet to decide how to structure it.

How can we learn more about you?

Email: bob.mackay@hotmail.com

Website: www.robertwmackay.ca

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertwmackay/

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