Meet Mo Fanning
Mo Fanning is a Birmingham-based novelist whose work beautifully captures the complexities of love, identity, and belonging through the lens of LGBTQ+ experiences. Known for his ability to blend humor, heartbreak, and hope, Mo writes stories that celebrate human imperfection and the resilience of the heart.
So far, he has written seven books five novels and two short story collections including The Armchair Bride, Rebuilding Alexandra Small, Ghosted, Husbands, and Rainbows and Lollipops. His short story collections this is (not) america and Five Gold Rings showcase his gift for sharp emotional insight and wit.
“I like to write stories about people trying to find their place in the world,” Mo says. “My characters often stumble, make mistakes, and love imperfectly but that’s what makes them human.”
When he’s not writing, Mo lives with his husband, Mark, and their ever-hungry Labrador, Ernie, who often sneaks into his stories as inspiration for loyal companions and comic relief.
The Story Behind Ghosted
Mo’s latest novel, Ghosted, was inspired by the paradox of loneliness amid crowds. “I was fascinated by how we can feel most alone when surrounded by people,” he explains.
The story follows Silas, a department store Santa who loses his job, and Ellen, a New York waitress suddenly out of work. Both hit rock bottom just before Christmas. Fate lands them on a cruise ship with 3,000 gay men ready to celebrate, and what follows is a heartfelt exploration of connection, forgiveness, and hope.
“At its core, Ghosted is about the courage to believe in love and connection even when it feels too late,” Mo says. “It’s a story about second chances both in love and in life.”
The novel explores the importance of chosen family, a recurring theme in Mo’s work. “In the LGBTQ+ community, family isn’t always defined by blood,” he adds. “It’s the people who see you, support you, and love you anyway.”
Writing Habits and Creative Process
Mo has a unique approach to writing he drafts longhand in notebooks. “It drives my husband mad because they’re everywhere,” he laughs. “But writing by hand helps me connect more deeply with my characters’ voices.”
His process is both intuitive and reflective, allowing stories to evolve naturally. “For me, writing isn’t just about the story; it’s about understanding the people inside it. Every character teaches me something new.”
Influences and Inspirations
Mo credits Marian Keyes for inspiring him to write. “I devoured her early books,” he recalls. “When I couldn’t find the mix of heart and humor I craved, I decided to try writing it myself.”
He also admires Fredrik Backman, whose emotional storytelling and compassion for flawed characters have deeply influenced his own writing style.
What He’s Working On Now
Mo is currently revisiting an older manuscript, giving it what he calls “the director’s cut treatment.”
“The story explores authenticity the journey from living the version of yourself you think others expect, to finally becoming who you truly are,” he explains. “I’m expanding the emotional depth, giving more space for the messiness of real relationships the way people can love each other and still hurt each other.”
He describes the project as “therapeutic,” saying it reflects his ongoing fascination with self-acceptance and the courage to live authentically.
How He Promotes His Books
For Mo, meaningful reader relationships are more valuable than flashy ads. “My email newsletter is my best promotional tool,” he says. “It lets me connect directly with people who genuinely care about my work. Social media can feel like shouting into the void, but email feels personal.”
He also appreciates book promotion sites like AwesomeGang for helping indie authors reach new audiences.
Advice for Aspiring Authors
Mo offers some heartfelt wisdom for new writers:
“Write the book you wish existed in the world, not the one you think will sell. When you write something that truly matters to you, readers will feel it.”
He also emphasizes finishing what you start. “A messy finished draft is better than a perfect first chapter. You learn more from completing one flawed book than from polishing five unfinished ones.”
And most importantly? “Enjoy the process. Writing should bring you joy. If you’re not having fun, your readers won’t either.”
The Best Advice He’s Ever Heard
“You can’t edit a blank page.”
It’s a mantra Mo swears by, reminding himself that progress matters more than perfection.
What He’s Reading Now
Currently, Mo is reading Fundamentally by Nussaibah Younis, a novel shortlisted for the 2025 Women’s Prize for Fiction. “She balances the political and the personal so beautifully,” he says. “As someone who tries to weave social themes into fiction without being preachy, I’m both learning and honestly spitting with envy.”
What’s Next for Mo Fanning
Mo plans to continue writing stories that blend humor, heartbreak, and hope. “I have lots more words to fill in lots of notepads,” he jokes. His upcoming novel will once again explore the tension between self-image and authenticity delivering the same warmth, wit, and emotional truth readers love him for.
Books He Would Take to a Desert Island
If stranded on a desert island, Mo’s reading list would include:
- Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
- Rachel’s Holiday by Marian Keyes
- Big Girl, Small Town by Michelle Gallen
- A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
“These books remind me that even in isolation, there’s humor, love, and the possibility of connection,” he says.
Connect with Mo Fanning
- Website: Mo Fanning Official Site
- Amazon Author Page: Mo Fanning on Amazon
- Goodreads Profile: Mo Fanning on Goodreads
- Facebook: Mo Fanning Facebook Page
