The Child Trilogy:
About Melissa Hawker
Melissa Hawker is a psychological thriller author based in Llandrindod Wells, Mid Wales. She holds an honours degree in Psychology with Counselling and has always been drawn to understanding the complexities of the human mind—both academically and personally. Writing has been a part of Melissa’s life for many years, beginning with poetry, then short stories, and eventually developing into full-length novels. What started as a creative outlet gradually became something far more significant. Having spent time under mental health services and within mental health units before eventually being discharged, Melissa’s experiences have deeply shaped both her perspective and her writing. Living with emotionally unstable personality disorder and complex post-traumatic stress disorder, she often draws from the realities of trauma, silence, and emotional conflict—exploring the parts of people that are often left unspoken.
As Melissa often reflects: “The most chilling stories aren’t written in blood, but in the silence of forgotten secrets. Some people read them. I think, in my own way, I’ve lived them.”
Her writing originally began as a way to process and make sense of her own experiences. It was never intended for publication. But after sharing her work with family, friends, and eventually readers beyond her immediate circle, she was surprised by how strongly her words resonated. That response, alongside the support of those around her, gave her the confidence to take the next step.
Melissa lives in Llandrindod Wells with her wife, Hayley, and is a proud mother of two children. When she’s not writing, she enjoys quieter moments at home and spending time with her little Shorkie, Rufus (a.k.a. Ruti). Her debut series, The Child Trilogy, was inspired by a recurring dream that stayed with her for years. Originally titled The Swing, the story evolved into something far deeper.
The first instalment, The Child Between Us, is a UK-set psychological thriller exploring motherhood, secrets, and trauma. Book one is now available, with book two currently in progress and the final instalment to follow.
Why I Write Thrillers
Some of my favourite authors include James Patterson, Gillian Flynn, John Marrs, and Paula Hawkins. Writing, for me, has always been a way of understanding the world... and sometimes, escaping it.
