Why do you have a book review policy?
Even though I don’t consider myself an official book reviewer of any sort, I feel like I do post enough of them that having a policy in place could only be useful.
What sorts of books do you read?
My preferred genres are science-fiction and fantasy, which I read both for enjoyment and to stay abreast of current trends in the genre. In the last few years, I have also turned to romance (bonus points if it’s queer romance) as a way to find positivity through a guaranteed happily ever after. However, I can be persuaded to read just about anything.
Why do you write reviews?
Because I want people to review my books! As an “indie” author being published by a small press, I am well aware of the importance of reviews, especially for other writers like me. Does that mean I want those writers to review my book in return? Of course not (though I won’t say no if they really want to). I view it more as paying a good deed forward.
Do you have a reading schedule?
Nope. My writing schedule takes priority, and if I’m in hardcore must-finish-this-novel mode, my preferred relaxation method (reward system) is mainlining series on Netflix. The rest of the year is heavier on the reading. Some books have been on my to-be-read shelf for years (currently 100+), and they get read when they get read. I track the finish date of every book on my phone, but it can take weeks or months after that for me to get the review written. Again, since I’m not an official book reviewer, I’m kind of okay with that.
Why do some of your reviews start with a disclaimer?
There has been increased focus lately in my full-time medical editing career on conflict of interest for both authors and reviewers, which I fully support. I’d like to see more of that in the fiction publishing industry, but all I can do is lead by example. My policy–
- I will never accept money to review a book.
- I will disclose whether I received my copy of the book for free in exchange for an honest review.
- I will disclose whether I consider the book’s author a personal friend and/or whether I had a hand in editing/proofreading it, followed by whether I received the copy for free or paid for it.
Why do all of your reviews get at least 3 stars? Don’t you hate anything?
So many books, so little time. If I am honestly not enjoying something after the first 50 pages or so, I’m not going to finish it. I will add it to my list on Goodreads as “abandoned” without a starred rating and include the reason why, whether it is as subjective as the book did not appeal to me personally or as specific as poor copy-editing. I will not review the book on my blog or on its Amazon page.
So, will you review my book?
Sure! Send me the ebook version and I’ll be happy to consider it. If you want me to read it in order to provide a cover quote, you will always get bumped to the head of the line. If it is before release, I will actually make every effort read it in time to post the review on the release day. If it is after the release, I make no promises.
Can I review your books?
Sure! If you are an actual book reviewer, shoot me an email here and my publisher will provide you with a hardcopy or ebook in your preferred version of whichever book you’re interested in. If you’re a general reader like myself, please consider supporting indie authors by purchasing a copy instead!