Undersea Spotlight: Katrina at Kindred Dreamheart

How long have you been blogging? What made you want to start a book blog?

I’ve been blogging since May of 2011.  My blog started out as an outlet for my fashion projects and inspirations, but by that November I’d decided to add book reviews to my blog.  When I wasn’t sewing I was reading, so it seemed logical.

What do you do when you’re not blogging or reading?

I’m sewing or spending time with my wonderful husband.

What is your favorite part about blogging? Least favorite?

My favorite part about blogging is interacting and receiving feedback.  Especially on sewing projects I find especially stressful.  The positive comments are very encouraging. And the tips are insightful!

My least favorite is when I’m super excited about something and my readers don’t relate.  It makes me wonder if I’m alone.  I mean if everyone’s excited but only the mellow or nay sayers are commenting, I can only wonder if my great idea isn’t so great after all.

Where did you come up with the name for your blog?

The name of my blog is also the name of my brand and clothing line.  So regardless of the subject content, it will always be “Kindred Dreamheart”.  Simple and It didn’t even have to think so hard.

Do you have any specific book bloggers that inspire you?

I adore the Bookish Brunette’s personality.  She seems very spunky.  I also really like Eileen from Singing and Reading in the Rain.  She’s always so positive and bubbly.  I really like Shane @ Itching for Books because she’s genuinely a nice person.  I’ve only interacted with her via posts and email, but that’s the vibe I get from her messages.  If you can get vibes from messages, I do.  There are others also such as Janina @ Synchronized Reading, the ladies at Talk Supe that I make it a point to visit frequently because I love their blogs and the vibes I get from their posts.

What do you look for in a blog when following? What are your pet peeves?

I look for design originality. Even if you use a generic template, the way you set it up and content placement says a lot. If it’s easy on the eyes and organized without too much going on is what I prefer. I also look for the wording of the posts.  If I get a negative or particularly snarky/bitchy vibe, I steer away.  I log on to relax not see constant venting and/or negativity.  Even if it’s the worst book ever written, I prefer to read reviews from individuals with the coif to express it without being overly harsh.  In fashion and other blogs, I look for original photos….even original meme images.

While blogs that don’t meet this criteria, I don’t dismiss.  This is just a personal preference.

What’s your favorite book(s)?

That’s like asking me to pick a favorite Kindred Dreamheart design!  It would be unfair to simply say one so I’ll mention my top “most enjoyable”: Blood Warrior by HD Gordon, Between the Land and the Sea by Derrolyn Anderson, Stalk Me by Jillian Dodd, Caterpillar by Kate Oliver, Stealing Breath by Joanne Brothwell, Living Violet by Jamie Reed, The Annihilation of Foreverland  by Tony Bertauski, The Secret Life of Copernicus H. Stringfellow: Surreptitious Superhero by Lorin K. Barber.  I can easily name about 20 more but I’ll leave it at this.  Indie Authors rock!  Anyone hesitant of self-published, give a few on my list a try.

What is the biggest turn off for you when you’re reading a book?

What first draws you to a book to make you want to read it?

Original covers.  Attractive original covers are a plus, but they have to be original first and foremost. This may sound shallow but I hate it when I see the same cover I’ve seen a million times before.  I know there’s free artwork out there that authors can use, but goodness graces don’t simply grab one and slap your title and name on it.  Photoshop, please.  Make it your own and make it look different.

Describe yourself in 3 words.

Ambitious, introvert, idealistic.

Name a random fact about yourself.

I served almost 10 years in the military.

Do you have a job? If so, what do you do?

I’m a freelance seamstress, art student, and government employee.

What did you want to be when you were little? Has that changed?

EVERYTHING!  I wanted to be a journalist, fashion forecaster, fashion designer, Soldier, librarian, physical trainer, paratrooper, etc. Nope, I’m still trying to pursue all my dream jobs.

 White, dark, or milk chocolate? 
Dark, it’s healthier!