Mrs. Benson grew up in the Midwest. After graduating from the University of Illinois, she started and sold two successful businesses before deciding to pursue her real passion, writing. She had several articles published in a variety of periodicals, including History Magazine before she decided to try her hand at fiction.

In April of 2020, Vali published her first novel, a work of YA Historical fiction called “Blood and Silver”. That same month, she was also made a member of the Western Writers of America. In November of 2021, “Blood and Silver” won first prize for fiction at the Arizona Literary Awards.

“I never dreamed ‘Blood and Silver’ would have such a warm reception”, Vali says. In addition to winning in the Arizona Literary Awards, the book won two awards at the 2021 San Francisco Book Festival, taking home top honors in the History and the Young Adult categories. “Blood and Silver” has also won at the New York Book Festival, the Paris Book Festival, the Moonbeam Book Awards, the Royal Dragonfly Book Awards, the 2021 American Fiction Awards, and the 2022 International Book Awards.

Vali continues to write and explore various topics of interest to her. She resides happily in Tucson with her husband, two sons and grandchildren.