We’re delighted to share a recent feature on Major Hendrik Hoitinga in a local newspaper, which was published to mark World Book Day 2025.

The article, also highlighted by The Salvation Army North Scotland on social media, shines a spotlight on Hendrik’s inspiring journey from ministry to manuscript. After retiring from his service as a Salvation Army officer, Hendrik embraced his lifelong passion for storytelling—crafting compelling historical fiction infused with mystery, romance, and rich spiritual themes.

At 72, Hendrik is preparing to launch The Ontario Project, the fourth installment in his beloved series, with a fifth novel already in progress. His debut work, The Item, and follow-up titles, The Mosaic Swallow and Three Monks from Florence, have received international attention, leading to a publishing collaboration with Blue Ink Media Solutions in the United States.

Born in the Netherlands and having served across Europe—including Belgium, Wales, and Scotland—Hendrik now writes from his home in Wick, where he continues to draw inspiration from the landscapes around him and the values he holds dear.

“I had a clear calling in my twenties to serve God. When I retired, I had the same kind of calling, only this time God was saying, ‘You’ve done enough for me; it’s time to do something different.’” – Hendrik Hoitinga.

His books, free from violence and profanity, are enriched with spiritual reflections and offer readers a meaningful escape into stories that uplift and inspire.

You can also read the article published by The Salvation Army here:
https://www.salvationarmy.org.uk/news/
retired-officer-recognised-ahead-world-book-day