Mike Hardy

Originally from Scotland, Hardy now calls Cardiff home, where he lives with his wife, Semira. Their story began in Ethiopia, a country that remains profoundly significant for both of them. They married in Addis Ababa in 2014, and Ethiopia continues to be a place they return to, reconnecting with family and lifelong friends. Hardy is the proud father of three adult children—Ben, Matt, and Emily—from a previous marriage.

Hardy's professional background is diverse, rooted in his service as a Royal Marine Commando, which evolved into a 30-year career dedicated to safety and security. Today, he brings the same dedication to his writing, drawing from the discipline of his military background and the rich tapestry of experiences that have shaped his life. As someone who has personally battled PTSD and received treatment at Cardiff University, Hardy understands firsthand the therapeutic power of storytelling.

Writing initially acted as a means of processing his traumas and gradually became a creative outlet for Hardy. This path led him to fiction, where real-life events and nightmares often inspire his characters. Hardy's debut novel, Blood, Dust, Hyenas, is a work of fiction, yet through its protagonist, Tommy, it echoes aspects of his own life.

In addition to writing, Hardy is an avid reader of horror, with a particular affinity for Stephen King's work, holding a prominent place on his bookshelf. Storytelling, in its many forms, remains a constant source of solace and inspiration. Alongside his writing, Hardy continues to work full-time as a safety consultant in the quarries and mines of Wales and England, applying his knowledge to an industry where safety is paramount.