*huge sigh*  There are so many authors who write paranormal romance, specifically shifter romance that it’s often hard to figure out where to start.  There are some amazing writers that give us such detailed, intense even charming shifter stories — and then there are… the others.  I’m certain you get my drift.  Those who put pen to paper with no idea of how to draw me into a story that I will love and rave about – and beg for more.

But here’s the thing – not everyone’s reading enjoyment is the same.  What gives me delicious thrills up my spine may bore you into snores.  And that’s okay, really it is.

Some authors will grow and change, coming into their own unique niche in this field – others never will.  Yet each has their audience of readers.  Because we don’t all like the same things, and that is just freaking amazing and right for each individual.

For myself, I only have so much time to read and post reviews.  Right now, because of knee replacement surgery and the rehab that comes with that surgery I’ve not been able to sit at my computer for great lengths of time.  So I have 74 drafts in a lined notebook of books that I’ve read during the recuperation time these past weeks.  I also have 44 books that I simply returned, half read because they did not appeal to my reading enjoyment.  Yes, total that’s a lot of books, but I had a lot of time on my hands.  Time is a precious commodity – one that I refuse to waste finishing books that simply do nothing for me at all.  Here at Shifter Haven, all of these books I have made the choice to read and review (no NetGalley obligations unless I’ve brought over a review from Keeper Bookshelf because it’s a shifter romance), as a result you’ll only see stories that I’ve enjoyed and would recommend to others based on my likes and enjoyment of the author’s works.  

The truth is, just like finding that perfect mate you’re gonna have to kiss a few frogs along the way… same goes with picking authors that speak to your enjoyment needs.  But just because you didn’t like one book doesn’t mean that a later story won’t be a perfect fit, so give authors a second chance, time to grow – you might be surprised what two or three years can do to a writer’s delivery techniques.

One thing on this blog that I’m trying very hard to keep updated is my “Shifter Authors” section.  There you will find the authors that I really enjoy and will always pick up their new (or older) stories.  If you’re looking for recommendations that’s a good place to start.

Time is precious, we only have so much of it to spare – so don’t feel badly if an author doesn’t “speak” to you.  Wish them well, don’t bad mouth them, and move along to another selection.  Because everyone has an audience that reaches into the heart – you simply have to take the time to find the authors that do that for you.  It is a lifelong journey, one that is actually very enjoyable.  Read what moves you, and leave the rest to another group of readers who will love what you couldn’t.