New Kindersley author is crafting historical fiction
By Joan Janzen
A new young author is hard at work promoting her recently published works of fiction. Elyssia Holloway has chosen the pseudonym Ellie Hollows, and has independently published two books as part of a series. The books are entitled The Hermit and the Rose and The Victor and the Violet. Most recently, she also published a Christmas story entitled Chickadee Christmas.
Elyssia Holloway holds two of her recently published books. The new 21-year-old author from Kindersley writes Christian historical fiction and uses the pen name Ellie Hollows. PHOTO BY JOAN JANZEN
“I chose the pen name Ellie Hollows because Ellie is my nickname, and our farm is called Hidden Hollows,” the 21-year-old explained. Elyssia lives with her parents and eight younger siblings on an acreage south of Kindersley.
Elyssia writes Christian historical fiction with a mystery element. She’s dedicated to her craft and has already completed the first draft of her fourth book. “The book I just finished is Christian fantasy,” she said.
Although she is venturing out into more genres, she primarily writes historical fiction. “I love going back into history. It’s amazing how much research I have to do, though,” she admitted.
Her book Chickadee Christmas tells the story of a single mom and her toddler navigating the holiday season during the Great Depression. “The period fit my story line. It’s hard to find books on Canadian history,” she admitted, which is why she wants to incorporate Canadian history in her fiction.
She began by creating the story line and wanted to emphasize that hope can be found even when experiencing hard times during the holiday season. She said the book shows that “Christ is the light out of our darkness.”
The young author has been crafting stories since she was a little kid, even though “they weren’t any good,” she chuckled. However, three years ago she began to seriously pursue writing her first book, The Hermit and the Rose.
About that time, she joined an online program for young people aged 13–25, where she watched a series of videos and put her newfound skills into practice in her manuscript. “There I met a really good friend, and we decided to start a writer’s club,” she said. “It created a very welcoming community where we help each other.”
Elyssia’s writing began to take off! Her first book was published in November 2024, the second book in September 2025, and her Christmas short story was published just prior to the Christmas season.
“I love baking and cooking, but for me writing provides an outlet to think creatively and be myself,” she said. “Nothing worth doing is easy; it takes a lot of work. So many times I want to give up, but every time someone encourages me to keep going.”
Her creativity ensures each book is different, but she confessed her most recent book is the most difficult one she’s ever written. At the same time, she’s really happy and excited about the first draft. “It highlights that our past doesn’t have to define us,” she explained.
While she continues to craft her stories, she is surrounded by her greatest supporters: her family. “My 14-year-old sister is my biggest motivator,” she said, as she reads each chapter as it is being written. “And my mom and dad are my biggest supporters. My mom helps me with plot points. She’s the super best mom ever!” Elyssia enthused.
She also enjoys watching her brothers read her books. “I’m watching them read and realize they laugh at just the right time. It’s been really encouraging for me,” she admitted.
While Elyssia is busy making connections and promoting her books on Instagram and her website, she constantly reminds herself not to despise small beginnings. “My purpose in writing isn’t to be a best seller. If God can use it to encourage one person, it’s all worth it,” she concluded.
You can check out Elyssia’s website and blog at www.elliesbookhaven.com.