Darlene Foster is the author of the fanciful tales of Amanda, a young girl from Canada who finds herself on the most extraordinary adventures. Amidst all Darlene’s writing, she finds herself on her own adventures, and there’s much more to this writer than meets they eye!
Today, I am pleased to welcome Darlene Foster to the blog! She’s been put through the ringer kind enough to come and be drilled for personal information share about herself and her lovely books.
Take it away, Darlene!
Seventeen things you (probably) didn’t know about author Darlene Foster…
My first job, at 17, was a salesclerk in a local gift shop. I worked for a wonderful German woman who imported things from all over the world, which fueled my desire to travel. I loved helping people choose the perfect gift for someone, or something special for themselves. I learned so much from my employer and from the customers who frequented the store. It was a perfect first job and I held it for ten years.
If I wasn’t an author, I would likely be a tour guide.
I collect books and shoes. I know it is an odd combination but it’s what I do. I have limited space in my house in Spain so I am trying to cut back but it’s not easy. They don’t even go together as I usually read books wearing flip flops or slippers. But my shoes do share the same room as my books.
Rachael: haha! 🙂 At least they know how to share.
My favorite word is amazing! There are so many amazing things to see and do in this world. Every day should be amazing!!
I’m a big fan of Jane Austen. I wish she had lived longer and written more books. Her books are the only ones I read over and over. I’m also a big fan of chocolate.
Rachael: uh…ditto and ditto.
The smartest person in my cell phone is my younger brother who is the person responsible for creating my fabulous website. He’s smart, talented, artistic, funny, a financial genius and an all-around amazing guy.
The first time I received criticism on my writing, I cried. But then I looked at the criticism again and realized it was completely true. I reworked what I had written and it was so much better. I learned quickly that criticism helps you become a better writer.
Rachael: painful at first but oh so true!
People often tell me that I emit positive energy. I’m not sure about that as I can get quite tired at times, but I always try to look on the bright side.
The best thing I have ever read is a small book called Perseverance by Margaret Wheatley. It has got me through some tough times and is a book I can pick up and read many times and always get something new out of it. I have often given it as a gift and always recommend it.
I find inspiration in my travels and in the amazing people I meet along the way.
My biggest fear is running out of time.
The best thing about being a writer is having a young person tell me they enjoyed my book/books. The second best thing is having an adult tell me they enjoyed reading my book/books. It makes it all worthwhile.
I spend way too much time on my computer. I’m glad I have a dog who drags me away for walks.
It really bothers me when people are negative. I know there can be a lot of bad things out there but there are just so many more good things to talk about. Dwelling on the negative just makes it worse. I once read, if you wake up each day being thankful for three things, the rest of the day goes great! It works.
Rachael: Great advice! Take note, my friends.
I have always wanted to obtain a university degree.
The three websites I visit most often are Goodreads, Facebook and Trip Advisor
You’d be surprised to know that I am a vegetarian.
Wow! So much fun getting to know you better, Darlene. I’m always impressed by the lives of other authors. I love how I get to live a little vicariously through your adventures and outlook on life. Thank you so much for coming and being willing to answer my questions.
I’m so glad we were able to get to know Darlene better, but I hope you’ll take the time to check out her books and connect with her personally! I know Darlene would love it.
You can find Darlene Foster here:
- http://www.darlenefoster.ca/
- https://darlenefoster.wordpress.com/
- Darlene Foster on Amazon
- Goodreads
Darlene Foster’s latest book in the Amanda series is Amanda in New Mexico: Ghosts in the Wind.
Story Description: Amanda Ross is on a school trip to Taos, New Mexico with several fellow creative students. She shares a room with Cleo, an anxious classmate who insists she sees ghosts. Determined to prove there is no such thing, Amanda can’t seem to shake the feeling that something or someone is watching her.
Join Amanda, Cleo and their funny friend, Caleb, as they visit a rugged and beautiful landscape where a traditional hacienda, an ancient pueblo, and a haunted and spooky hotel all hold secrets to a wild and violent past.
Does Cleo really see ghosts? Can Amanda escape the eerie wind that follows her everywhere she goes?
Don’t forget to visit Darlene at the social media links above or head right over to her website (http://www.darlenefoster.ca) and say hello! We’d both love to connect with you here, too.
Have a great week and enjoy a book!
Rachael Ritchey 
Please leave a comment, question, or idea! I’d love to chat!