About Me

I was one of those shy, quiet kids who spent more time reading than talking. Literally. I didn’t speak a single word for the first three months of preschool, but I had already taught myself to read. My fascination with reading led to many hours spent in the library and bookstores, and eventually to writing. I wrote my first novel when I was sixteen years old, but spent ten years rewriting and perfecting it before having it published.

Native to New Mexico, my husband and I spent several years in Colorado for college and work before moving back home to be near family again. Our two children love having their seventeen cousins close by again. They also love having all the neighbor kids over to play, which has made our house the unofficial summer and after school hangout spot.

When not writing, you can find me out and about with my family or sneaking a few minutes for one of my many hobbies I never seem to have time for. I love reading (obviously), though I tend to stick to indie and small press authors more than mainstream books. I don't do nearly enough painting and drawing, but I have a passion for art and I think kids really need a creative outlet to express themselves. I also enjoy sewing, though my dreams of becoming a fashion designer never really panned out. And for my day job... I spend my time trying not to get bitten by small children in my work as a dental hygienist.

My reading interests are as eclectic as my hobbies. My first love in books is Young Adult and middle grade. I still have a collection of books like Which Witch and The Enchanted Forest series on my bookshelf, and I love rereading them with my kids. I also enjoy thriller/suspense mysteries like The Romanov Prophecy, fantasies like The Mistborn Trilogy, dystopias like The Hunger Games, and I'll admit it, gushy, girly teen romances like Twilight.

What I look for in a great book is strong characters, a plot with no holes, and a captivating story. I can't stand stereotypical or "token" characters. Even side characters should have an element of depth and uniqueness. I don't like female characters that are pushy, loud, and overly tough, because that quickly gets on my nerves. Male characters should never be perfect, and if they have a secret, all the better. Plot holes, or plots that get lazy at the end and don't wrap up everything are a big pet peeve of mine. If I get to the end of the book and am confused and unsatisfied, it's very likely I won't read that author again. Storylines can be well thought out and intelligent, but if they don't pull me in quickly I get the urge to start skimming.

Having said that, I do not skim books. I have a strange compulsion to finish a book I start no matter how good or bad it might be. There is only one book I have ever not finished in my entire life. I bugs me still, but I've forgotten the name of the book, so it's hard to remedy that now. Have no fear that I won't finish a book that is sent to me. So, on to the reading!

7 comments:

  1. I think you are a very honest and interesting critic, DelSheree,loved what you felt about Bennett's book...I loved it too. Any chance you might like to try Middle Watch by Loretta Proctor. It's on Amazon as an ebook or I can send a copy if you contact me at wrting@lorettaproctor.co.uk.
    I'd love to know if you like it. Lorri

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  2. Thanks for stopping by www.marciescaringhands.weebly.com and leaving me a comment. I would like to recommend a book to you The Dragon Tattoo Lady there are three books in in this series. I think you might love them. The lead character is a strong female that I don't find often when I am reading a book.

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    1. Thank you for stopping by and making a suggestion. I've heard a lot about these books, but I haven't had the chance to read them yet. I'll definitely add them to my list. Thanks!

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  3. Stumbled onto this site and it looks interesting. I have two young adult books on Amazon and though friends and family have read/commented on them, I want to reach a wider audience. I think they fit your remit as to what you like, they both have strong child narrators but are very different. If you have a chance in your busy life, perhaps you could take a look at the synopsis on Amazon. The books are 'Sanctuary House' and 'God's Away on Business' by Alexandra Stopford. Thanks in anticipation and hopefully you might want to take me on!

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    1. Alexandra, I stopped by Amazon to check out your books and they looked very interesting. I'm not sure how to contact you unless you're following this page, but I'll try to find you and see if we can set up a review. Thanks for stopping by!

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  4. As I read your blog I am tempted to to try some of your work, One of my favorite Authors is V.C Anderws from the Children in the attic book series and some of your work reminds of these books. Thanks for visiting my blog and leaving the comment.

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    1. I haven't read VC Andrews series, but I've heard their very good. I'll have t check them out ;) Thanks for stopping by!

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