40+ Years a New Mexican
Writer. Photographer. Quilter. Cook. Teacher. Historian.
I’m Shawn Marie Graybeal-Sellers, a novelist and maker in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where the Sandias are impossible to ignore and every ordinary moment has a story worth telling. Between books, photographs, quilts, and a busy kitchen, I’m always making something.
On the Page
My Books
The Space Between Songs
A novel by Shawn Marie Graybeal-Sellers
Across the rugged American West, geologist Jessi Serrano fights to escape a ruthless human trafficking network and find her way back to the man she left behind. A story of suspense, resilience, and the people who become home.
This book is a love letter to the rugged landscapes of the American West. The author does a stunning job of using the geography—moving from the alpine forests of Colorado to the wide-open spaces of Wyoming and Montana—not just as a backdrop, but as an active element in Jessi’s fight for survival. The suspense is tight, the romantic undertones with Ryan add a beautiful layer of hope, and the ultimate message about finding home in the people who refuse to let you stand alone is incredibly moving.
— Matt
Anywhere But Here
A novel by Shawn Marie Graybeal-Sellers
Michelle Martinez knows how to leave. Finding her way back means confronting painful memories, the mystery of Sylvia’s disappearance, and the ties she cannot quite let go. A story of survival, chosen family, and the difficult road to belonging.
This book stayed with me long after I put it down. Anywhere But Here is one of those stories that quietly pulls you in and then hits you right in the heart. What I loved most was the theme of chosen family. The Calderon household felt warm and genuine, the kind of place you wish everyone could have, and it made Michelle’s push-and-pull between leaving and returning even more emotional. The mystery surrounding Sylvia’s disappearance adds a layer of tension, but it never overshadows the deeper story of healing and belonging.
— Christina
Come Say Hello
Upcoming Events
You’ll find me at book fairs, author signings, and community events throughout New Mexico and beyond. Stop by to talk books and stories, pick up a signed copy, and see what else I’ve brought along from my creative corner of the Southwest.
Latest Posts
From the Blog
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Indie by Choice? Abso-Freaking-Lutely.
Indie by Choice? Abso-Freaking-Lutely. I recently commented on a post about indie authors choosing to publish independently. There seems to be an assumption that we publish our own books because…
What I am Listening To
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I’ve loved Alison Krauss and Union Station for years and followed their members into their solo work. Lately, Tyminski’s “Southern Gothic” keeps finding me on YouTube—cool, creepy, and the perfect soundtrack to my current Southern Gothic read.
Southern Gothic ~ Dan Tyminski
Listen Now: Southern Gothic ~ Dan TyminskiI’ve loved Alison Krauss and Union Station for years and followed their members into their solo work. Lately, Tyminski’s “Southern Gothic” keeps finding me on YouTube—cool, creepy, and the perfect soundtrack to my current Southern…
Photography
Moments captured through the lens.
Artwork
Original pieces drawn from the red earth, open skies, and quiet corners of the American Southwest.
Today’s Recipe
A new recipe every day — from family favorites to finds from around the world.
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Southwest Eggs in a Basket
Get the Recipe: Southwest Eggs in a BasketEggs in a basket have been a favorite of mine since I was a kid. They’re comfort food—simple, familiar, and always good. But I love to dress them up a little, too. Sourdough is especially…
History
From ancient pueblos to historic churches, I love to explore the stories written into the landscape of the Southwest.
Quilts
Handmade with love — traditional patterns, modern twists, and a few that defy category.
Manzano Moon Press
Manzano Moon Press is my Albuquerque-based independent imprint — a home for stories shaped by the American West, complicated families, resilience, and the search for belonging.
