Bringing a unique real-world perspective to the crime fiction genre, author D.M. O'Neal blends her extensive forensic science background with storytelling in her novel "Shambles." The narrative centers on forensic chemist Megan Brooks, thrown into a life-or-death situation as she works to clear her name from murderous accusations linked to her ex-husband. O'Neal's firsthand experience in the field gives her writing the kind of authenticity that can't be faked.
Adding to her story's credibility, O'Neal has spent her career knee-deep in the mechanics of crime scene processing and evidence analysis. Having put her dream on hold for single motherhood at a young age, she worked a lab technician job for over a decade. Later, she advanced to her current role as a senior forensic chemist at the Tarrant County Medical Examiner's Office, rounding up 34 years in forensic science. As the City of Fort Worth reported, her early fascination with true crime has undoubtedly fed into the authenticity of the dark and gripping world she crafts in her writing.
O'Neal will present her novel and the real-life stories that have influenced it at a presentation at the East Regional Library at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 25. Eager readers and aspiring crime aficionados will have the opportunity to delve into the novelist's mind, followed by a session to ask their burning questions. For those unable to attend in person, the author vows to extend her reach through the digital threads of a Zoom connection, assuring that none are barred from this collision of art and life.
Following the Q&A, O'Neal will sign copies of her book for those who attend in person, immortalizing a moment of connection between reader and writer.
