Book review challenge series – Ionia Martin

Day 5

Today our guest is book reviewer extraordinaire Ionia Martin. Please join me in welcoming her to the blog. Plus we have author Adrienne Vaughan’s views on the importance of book reviews, posting a review to Amazon and gearing up to write your own review.

1) Where can readers and writers find your blog?
You can find me at http://readfulthingsblog.com

2) Where do you post your book reviews as well as your blog?
It depends on the book, but I usually cross-post to Amazon.com US and UK as well as posting to Facebook, Linked-in, Goodreads and Twitter. If the author has a publisher site I will sometimes post there too.

3) What type of books will you consider for review?
I don’t do sci-fi books. Otherwise, I accept almost anything that doesn’t include graphic material. If a 15 year old couldn’t read it without blushing or getting sick, I don’t want it. I have kids in the house and I never know when they are going to start reading what I have lying about. My favourite categories for fiction are historical, romance, fantasy and thrillers. For non-fiction I will take almost anything. I only accept review requests during the months of April and November though, as my list is always long and I am usually about 6 months out for a review.

4) What format do you like books to be in for review?
I prefer kindle (Mobi format) over PDF. I love being able to highlight and save passages to use in the reviews. Plus, I have kindle on all my portable devices so it makes it easy to read and travel. Occasionally I long for a paper book.

5) What’s the first thing you do when beginning a book review?
I go back over the notes I have saved for the book and try to think about what will not only be important to mention for the audience, but for the author as well. If there is something that I either loved or disliked strongly, I want to ensure that gets mentioned.  I also make sure I am spelling the author’s name right.

6) How do you proceed after that?

All reviews are different. Sometimes I recount a bit of the story if the book is very complex. I try really hard to avoid spoilers of any kind in my reviews. I open with either a quote from the book, or a personal thought on the story, particularly if it is part of a series. I try to give the audience an idea of how long the book is, what age group or interest group it would be good for and then close with my overall feelings on the book.

7) Is there an average time you spend reading a book?
Unless the book is really, really bad (this almost never happens) I just read until finished. I try to plan out my week to where I do a couple of longer books and then a few shorter books so that I can balance the schedule and get to the books as soon as possible.

8) When you’ve finished a book do you write the review immediately? Or wait a while?
It really depends on how I felt about the book. It is harder to write a negative review than a positive one. I tend to take longer to put out a negative review as I want to be careful about revealing my feelings. Sometimes I find that if I mull a book over for a few days my thoughts on it will organise a bit better and then I can write a more precise review.

9) Do you start a new book before writing up a review? Or do you ever read more than one book at a time?
I do tend to read more than one at a time, especially if I am working on a really long book. My rule is that I never read two of the same genre at the same time. I don’t want to get confused and make a mistake in my review. So, for instance, if I’m reading a historical fiction book, I may also read a contemporary romance at the same time.

10) What points would you try to write in a review?
Do I think this is a good book for the age group it was put out for? Would I buy this for someone as a gift? Did the book capture my attention and not let it go? There are a variety of things that go into a well balanced review. If there are any negatives or serious content errors that the author/publisher should be aware of. Mostly I try to state my honest, bare bones feelings about how the book made me react.

11) What would you try to avoid putting in any review?
The main thing I want to stress, is that reviews may be important to the author, but they are not ABOUT the author. If you have a qualm with the book, so be it. But to be fair and professional, you must keep in mind that the author is a separate entity. As a reviewer, you are there to give an opinion on the book, NOT the person. Never insult an author in your review. I would also avoid giving spoilers if at all possible. You might love a book and unintentionally harm the author by giving away too much information and then people will refuse to purchase the book. Less is more.

12) If you find you really dislike a book, would you write a negative review?
I do write negative reviews, but not without warrant. I never guarantee any author that I will write a good review. If you do this long enough, you will have to write something less than shining, if you want to remain honest and above-board. No one loves every book they read. I’m not afraid to mention what I didn’t like as long as I feel I am still being respectful of the author. I have been called a “Book Nazi,” a “Literary ax murderer” and other such choice phrases by unhappy authors. I think in my entire career as a reviewer I have written less that 10 one star reviews. All authors are different. Some will lose their temper over a 3 star review and some will thank you for a 1 star. Remember why you love doing this and push forward.

13) Do you work with any publishers or groups who regularly ask you to review books?
I try not to play favourites with publishers. I care about the book. Will it interest me? Have I seen the idea before? Will the audiences I share my reviews with have anything to say about it and will it excite them? It really doesn’t matter to me which publisher or author it came from as long as I feel the book might be a good fit.

14) Tell us about any book which you’ve recently read and reviewed which really impressed you.
Hands down, my favourite book in recent memory is “The Butterfly and the Violin,” by Kristy Cambron. I am still thinking about this novel even though it has been a good while since I finished it. I have very few books on my shelf at home, but I intend to add a hardcover copy of this one soon. Here is the info on where to find it Amazon.co.uk or Amazon.com

Thank you so very much, Rosie for the space on your blog today. I have much respect for all you do for authors and fellow bloggers and I am officially chuffed that you asked me to guest.

The Importance of Book Reviews by author Adrienne Vaughan

1)     How important are book reviews for an author?

Reviews are really important, after at times, many years’ of solitary hard work, it’s great to get some feedback, positive or negative. Positive is better obviously, and when a reviewer tells you what they particularly like, it’s great because you know you are doing something right.

2)     What are the top sites for book reviews?

Amazon and Goodreads, I would say. But never underestimate the power of a little review in a local newspaper or magazine, even more valuable to an author in a national title.

3)     Many authors have their books and an author platform on Goodreads. Why do you think it’s a good place?

Because Goodreads is all about readers, and that’s who we ultimately want to be talking to – it’s the biggest – virtual – book club on the planet!

4)     What else does Goodreads provide for readers that you are part of? (ie Groups, Reading challenge, giveaways)

Like many authors, I am sure I don’t use Goodreads to its fullest extent, but I am currently looking into running some giveaways for my novels, just to widen the net.

5)     With the KDP self-publishing platform on Amazon, plus its world-wide buying power, this makes it a top site for books. Do people still need to post book reviews on Amazon or will discounted prices keep books selling?

I am convinced activity such as reviews, likes, comments on any book site, and especially Amazon increases visibility and powers that ‘Big Brother’ of the 21^st century – SEO – which in turn encourages automated promotion. Discounted books will still sell, but even more so if a recent review lets you know it is exactly what you are looking for.

6)     What would you like to see in a review of any book?

Sincere comments, like is it well written, does it make you laugh, cry, deal with big issues, has a happy ending …are important I think. Comments that make you aware of the content so time invested in reading is not wasted. A general overview of the story is helpful, to see if it is the sort of tale you might be interested in, but trying to synopsis the story in a review is too big an ask in many cases and that’s what the book is for, telling the story. Let the reviewer give the reader enough to know whether it’s worth a go is my opinion.

7)     Have you ever paid for book reviews? Are they considered “Professional” and important?

No, I haven’t and whether or not they are considered professional or important depends on who the reviewer is. Most genuine reviewers don’t wish to be paid, but I can understand people wanting a stock of reviews ready for when a book is launched, that’s just like giving a recipe a try before putting a product out on the supermarket shelves.

In saying that I am happy to give my books to reviewers, and happy for them to say what they like, a writer has to be able to stand by what they write and in my case, why I am proud to be indie published.

8)     What’s the best way to deal with a review from someone who didn’t like your book?

It’s true what they say, the more you write and publish the easier it gets, but it can still hurt. If it is genuine criticism, I take it on the chin and learn from it; if it is sour grapes or vindictive, I just ignore it. If I do receive a bad review (and there have been very few so far, thankfully) I read all the other lovely ones, from wonderful, kind reviewers, then pick up my pen and carry on.

9)     Do you think anyone can write a review? Do they have to be a minimum number of words?

Yes, anyone can write and review …and if possible everyone should. It is the only way you can say thank you to a writer for any pleasure they may have given you. I write them all the time, for everything. However, I NEVER write a bad review, life’s too short.

No minimum number of words. Some people feel happy writing loads, others just say, ‘this book was brilliant, couldn’t put it down’ – always click the stars though, sometimes even that is enough.

10)     Where can readers find out more about you and your books? 

They can email me at adrienne@adriennevaughan.com, find me on Facebook or Twitter @adrienneauthor and here are my links on Amazon

The Hollow Hearthttp://viewbook.at/TheHollowHeart

A Change of Hearthttp://viewbook.at/AChangeofHeart

 

Posting a Book review on Amazon

1) There is often press about reviews on Amazon. It tries to police the reviews and filter out false ones, like when someone gets all their family and friends to write 5* reviews about their book.

2) You can spot a review written most likely by a friend even if they are linked to buying the book through Amazon. A regular reviewer will have several books to their name.

3) At the moment you can post a review of a book even if you haven’t bought it through Amazon. I’ll put a note at the bottom of my review saying something like “This review is based on a free copy of the book given to me by the author/publisher”

4) What’s an ARC? An ARC is an Advanced Review Copy which authors send out before they publish their book to help build up support and marketing for the book. Sometimes they’re not completely finished with editing at this stage so your review should take this into consideration.

5) When should you post a review if you read an ARC? I always check with the author when they would like my review on an ARC posted. Sometimes straight away is ok, other times it might coincide with a big book launch.

Gearing you up for your book review

So now we’re getting very near to the Book Review Challenge. We’ve covered a lot of ground, gone in deep, possible scared you half to death but DON’T PANIC. If you can read and write YOU CAN WRITE A BOOK REVIEW.

There’s no right and wrong, all opinions are your own, in fact you can state that at the bottom of your review if you want to.

why not finish with “THIS BOOK REVIEW IS BASED ON A FREE COPY GIVEN TO ME BY THE AUTHOR FOR AN HONEST REVIEW, ALL OPINIONS ARE MY OWN.”

Now all you need is a piece of paper and a pen or pencil. YOU CAN DO IT.

Don’t forget AUTHORS NEED YOU.  Your reviews may help others to choose their books.

HAPPY READING!

Tomorrow we’ll be meeting author Lizzie Lamb who will be talking about her own views on the importance of book reviews. Plus encouraging authors to walk around to the book reviewers side of the fence.

All books have now been sent out and the requests are now closed.

  Do you fancy an adventure in the forests of Windemere with young warrior Luke Callindor sent to protect the heir of Duke Soloman? REQUEST A COPY OF BEGINNING OF A HERO BY CHARLES E. YALLOWITZ (Fantasy) (1 copy left)

  How about a modern twist on Tudor history? Relive the life of Henry VIII through the eyes of Harry Lanchester and his merry wives. REQUEST A COPY OF KINGS AND QUEENS BY TERRY TYLER (Contemporary) (All copies have now been requested)

  Are you in a romantic mood? How about a romantic Highland fling? REQUEST A COPY OF TALL, DARK AND KILTED BY LIZZIE LAMB (Romance) (2 copies left)

  Or how about a romantic romp with journalists in Norfolk with wedding bells in the air? REQUEST A COPY OF BOOT CAMP BRIDE BY LIZZIE LAMB(Romance) (All copies have now been requested)

  Want to escape your superpowers? Null City is they place to be in this New Adult paranormal fantasy. REQUEST A COPY OF ONE WAY FARE BY BARB AND HANNAH TAUB(Paranormal NA Fantasy) (All copies have now been requested)

  More tales from Null City, can be easily read as a stand alone or part of the series.. REQUEST A COPY OF DON’T TOUCH BY BARB TAUB(Paranornal NA Fantasy)

  How about a bit of  witches and history? England 1647, civil war and Matthew Hopkins sweeps through the land as the Witchfinder. REQUEST A COPY OF THE BLACK HOURS BY ALISON WILLIAMS (Historical) (1 copy left)

  Could you see yourself at a tournament of Gamesmen as they play a game of Comet? There’s a mystery man and a potion maker in this fantasy. REQUEST A COPY OF THE BIRR ELIXIR BY JO SPARKES (YA Fantasy) (2 Copies left)

  Love a thriller? Travel with John Cannon as his relaxing leave of absence turns into a nightmare when his boat is attacked by terrorists. REQUEST A COPY OF MY GRL BY JOHN W. HOWELL(Thriller) (All copies have now been requested)

  Can we tempt you with a spiritual quest? Albion, is the oldest name for Britain. Wen and Don take you on a mystical journey through Myths and Legends of these blessed Isles. REQUEST A COPY OF THE HEART OF ALBION BY SUE VINCENT & STUART FRANCE ( A spiritual quest around England) (All copies have now been requested)

  Crime? The first book in the Georgie Connelly crime series. Join feisty documentary film-maker Georgie as she dangerously plans to expose Gentleman’s Clubs. REQUEST A COPY OF BUSINESS AS USUAL BY E.L.LINDLEY(Crime) (All copies have now been requested)

NON-FICTION here’s the chance to get some help promoting your work. REQUEST A COPY OF HOW TO PROMOTE AND MARKET YOUR BOOK BY MADI PREDA (Non-Fiction) (2 Copies Left)

  There’s more romance on it’s way.  Marianne Coltrane’s writes an award winning scoop about the sale of babies. Destiny will take her to an island off the wild west coast of Ireland. Love a mix of Ireland and romance? REQUEST A COPY OF THE HOLLOW HEART BY ADREINNE VAUGHAN(Romance) (2 copies left)

  If you’ve read The Hollow Heart by Adrienne Vaughan, here’s your chance to loose yourself in more Irish themed romance with the second book in the series. REQUEST A COPY OF A CHANGE OF HEART BY ADREINNE VAUGHAN (Romance) (2 copies left)

  How about a murder mystery set in a coastal resort in Maine? REQUEST A COPY OF DEATH IN A RED CANVAS CHAIR BY N.A GRANGER (Murder Mystery) (All copies have now been requested)

 Step back in time to Georgia and the deep south for this book, real people struggling to survive with segregation and inequality. This is a fictionalised real story. REQUEST A COPY OF RED CLAY AND ROSES BY S.K. NICHOLLS (1 copy left)

 TJ Therien has his fantasy book for FREE on Smashwords and Barnes and Noble (Nook), so no limit on the number of copies but he’d still like reviews. (Fantasy) I know of at least 1 down load

 British comedy comes in the form of the Derek series, we have the first book available as a kindle download for UK reader/ challengers only. REQUEST A COPY OF PLEASE CALL ME DEREK BY MAC BLACK (British Adult Humour) (2 copies left)

 1867, the American Wild West. British raised girl Annie meets wild man Colt McCall after a stagecoach crash. Fantastic cowboy romance. (Voucher from Amazon.co.uk or Amazon.com to download the book.) REQUEST A COPY OF AN ENGLISHWOMAN’S GUIDE TO THE COWBOY BY JUNE KEARNS (Historical romance) (1 copy left)

 1924, the English Shires. Jazzing flappers and a half share in a million acre ranch in Texas. (voucher from Amazon.co.uk or Amazon.com to download the book.) REQUEST A COPY OF THE 20’S GIRL, THE GHOST AND ALL THAT JAZZ BY JUNE KEARNS (Historical Romance) (2 copies Left)

 16 year old Jade discovers her Grandmother was murdered. She sets out to find the mystery commune killer. REQUEST A COPY OF JADED BY KRISTY FELTENBERGER-GILLESPI.(YA Thriller) (All copies have now been requested)

Book review Challenge Series – How I write a book review

Day 1

Welcome one and all to our Book review challenge, I just want to thank everyone who is supporting this series it means so much to me. So what have we got for you?

I truly believe that books and book sales are changing as people browse virtual book stores to buy their books. This is where the book review really will help sell a book in a market place full of millions and millions of books. If I had a £1 for every-time someone said to me in the last week “Since I starting writing my book I’ve come to realise how important book reviews are” well, we’d be well on the way down to the nearest bookstore to stock up on books!

So today I’m in the spotlight talking about book reviews and giving you some simple easy tips to start you off book reviewing. I’ll get you thinking about reading a different genre and we have a guest piece from Melissa Newman at Martin Sisters Publishing.

We’ve been busy signing readers up who want to read and review one book from the line up we have to offer. There are still copies available of many of the books.

 

Thursday 26th June – Book reviewing by Bodicia from A Woman’s Wisdom + How to download a PDF file of a book to your kindle+ non-fiction reviews.

Friday 27th June – The Importance of book reviews by author Terry Tyler + a look at Goodreads + A bad or negative review, should you write it?

Saturday 28th June – Book Reviewing by Diane Coto from Fictionzeal + Shelfari + Going in deep, talking more about reviews.

Sunday 29th June – Book reviewing by Ionia Martin from Readfulthings + Reviewing to Amazon + Gearing up to write that review.

Monday 30th June – The Importance of book reviews by Lizzie Lamb + Authors should walk to the book reviewers side of the fence.

Let’s find out more about Rosie Amber’s book reviews.

1) Where do I post my book reviews as well as this blog?

I choose to regularly post my book reviews to Goodreads, Amazon.co.uk and Amazon.com. I write for 2 local magazines and post 5 selected book reviews to each magazine per month. The magazines go out to 7000 readers in my local area and both have on-line versions. (Featured authors tell me they love this because they can visit my book review pages from all over the world)

2) What type of books will I consider for review?

I enjoy romance, paranormal, humour, murder mystery, mild thrillers, spiritual and YA/NA books. I will read both non-fiction and fiction.

3) What format do I like books to be in for review?

I really like paperback books best, but I also enjoy using my Kindle as an alternative.  I do understand the cost of sending books to reviewers, so I accept books in Mobi or PDF. Authors can also gift me books or send me a voucher to cover the cost of buying their book.

4) What’s the first thing I do when beginning a book review?

I have a note book with me when I read books and I write down the title and author, the day I begin the book and I start noting character names and places, jobs, relationships etc as I go through the book.

5) How do I proceed after that?

Then I’ll note down specific events from the book, or small phrases or even things I don’t understand which may become clearer later in the book. I usually fill an A5 sized sheet with notes per book. Occasionally I’ll write more.

6) Is there an average time I spend reading a book?

I would say 2 days per book.

7) When I’ve finished a book do I write the review immediately? Or wait a while?

I always try to write the book review straight away while it is fresh in my mind.

8) Do I start a new book before writing up a review? Or do I ever read more than one book at a time?

The only time I might start a new book before writing a review is if I’m away from home. Occasionally I have more than one book on the go at a time, but the second book would usually be a non-fiction book which I could pick up and put down and is possibly one I’m reading for pleasure rather than review.

9) What points do I try to write in a review?

I like to tell the readers who the characters are, perhaps outline where and when the book takes place. I might hint at some of the plot developments and drop in a clue or two as to what happens. I try to entice the reader to go and buy the book. Sometimes I’m specific about the genre of the book, but not always because people can make their own choice about what they might like to read.  Often at the end I say what I liked about the book.

10) What do I try to avoid putting in any review?

I try to avoid spoilers and telling the reader too much. If I read a review that is full of all the book plot I find there is nothing left for me to discover myself, so I would not buy and read the book. I won’t say I don’t like a book in the review, but I may say if I found parts difficult or challenging to read. There are ways to use words so that hopefully they don’t offend the author.

11) If I find I really dislike a book, would I write a negative review?

No! People have spent a lot of time and effort writing their books. I may let them know that the book didn’t suit me and I feel I’m unable to write a review for them.

12) Do I work with any publishers or groups who regularly ask you to review books?

No, I have reviewed a couple of e-books for Sainsbury’s and a book for booktrope.com. Otherwise it’s just my 2 local magazines.

13) Tell you about any book which I’ve recently read and reviewed which really impressed me.

Roy Dimond writes some fantastic books which make you think about yourself deeply and the world around you.

Saving out Pennys

The Singing Bowl

The Rubicon Effect

Guest Piece from Melissa Newman at Martin Sisters Publishing

I asked Melissa about the importance of book reviews from a Publisher’s point of view. Here’s what she had to say;

1)     When an author approaches you with their work, do you ever research them to see if they have written and published any other books?

Yes. We do research authors. We like to see what they’ve written and how or if they market themselves. If they do it’s a big plus for us. Some writers believe that once the book is published then the heavy lifting is done – not so. The heavy lifting is just beginning. Your work is not truly complete until someone reads it; and for that you need to market your work.

2)     If you saw an author had previously self-published a book and had several book reviews, how many reviews and what ratings would impress you?

We are not turned off by self-publishing but if an author has self-published we like to see that he/she has implemented a good plan for reaching potential readers.

3)     When reading a book review, what types of comments would make you feel it was from a genuine reader and not just a friend of the author?

Genuine readers don’t usually use cliché’s, hyperbole and what I like to call “sales speak.” They are honest about their feelings toward the author and his/her work and it shows.

4)     How important are book reviews to the book industry?

Book reviews are extremely important to the book industry but just like everything else in marketing, when the message is obviously controlled then it spoils the book review industry as a whole. Word of mouth is still the best marketing tool and if you give readers a platform to speak opinions then book reviews work – when those reviews are paid for and the message is controlled, they don’t.

5)     Would you ever consider representing a book that had previously been self-published?

Martin Sisters Publishing may consider a book that has been previously self-published but it’s not likely. The initial launch of a book is crucial – that’s when you get the most “oomph.” If it has already been released the “oomph” is gone and it’s much harder to build an audience.

Thank you so much Melissa for taking time out of your busy schedule to talk to us. Find more about them here http://www.martinsisterspublishing.com/

Easy tips for writing a book review – I’ll look at it again in a deeper article later in the week.

1) Have a note book and pen handy.

2) Make a note of the Book Title, author, publisher and date you start the book. You might want to state the genre/ category the book falls into.

3) The first paragraph – what did it tell you? Note down names, places, time frame, any first impressions you get.

4) The first couple of chapters may well introduce lots of characters, note them all down they may be significant later.

5) As you go through make small notes or just use 1 or 2 words about the main events, such as a tournament, a party, a wedding, new job, a journey, etc to jog your memory when writing the review later.

6) At the half way stage of the book you should now have a good feel for the book. Is it fast paced? or Slow? Are there several characters narrating? Are there a couple of places or time frames being used? Can you guess where the book is leading? If its a thriller or mystery, are you being lead down dead end routes just when you think you’ve guessed the plot?

7) Has the feel of the book changed since the start? For instance a thriller may turn very sinister.

8) For the second half of the book, there may be less notes to make, you know the characters, the know where the book is set. Note any twists and turns in the storyline. After half-way the book will be well into the story I probably won’t use much of this material now for my book review because I’m in danger of adding spoilers and giving too much away.

9) The end. So after you’ve read the last page, how do you feel? Sad? Elated? Enlightened? Frustrated? Some books have cliff hangers leading on to the next in the series. If this is part of a series does it have you wanting to grab the next book? Did the ending surprise you?

10) Now think about a review. Think about what you would personally look for when choosing a book? What do you like to read on the back cover of a book? Or in the general description when you buy on-line?

11) Try writing no more than 10 lines to start with about the book in a way which would entice yourself to pick it up. Some reviewers start a review using the published book description and then go on to talk about how they liked the book.

Or perhaps you didn’t like the book, try writing a bit about the plot and the characters, but say how they didn’t work for you. Think about your choice of words, someone has spent hours writing and producing this book. If you really have strong reasons for disliking a book, no review may be kinder than leaving a rude one.

Genres; Moving out of your comfort Zone.

Be aware that many, many books these days cross genres; YA thrillers, romantic mysteries, historical adventure. There are so many sub-genres within the book world that you shouldn’t be blinkered and limit the type of books you try. There is just so much choice out there now with the explosions of e-books and self publishing.

Be adventurous and come out of your comfort zone every once in a while. Challenge yourself to read something new or an old classic. I even read a “New Classic” recently. Alone in Berlin by Hans Fallada is marketed as a New Classic by Penguin. Throw in a non-fiction book every now and again, mix it up and if you’ve been in a rut lately you might just be inspired by some of the new up and coming authors. I think we’ve a great selection for you here on this series.

Tomorrow you’ll hear from Bodicia a book reviewer who blogs at A Woman’s Wisdom, downloading a PDF file of a book to your kindle and non-fiction reviews.

  Do you fancy an adventure in the forests of Windemere with young warrior Luke Callindor sent to protect the heir of Duke Soloman? REQUEST A COPY OF BEGINNING OF A HERO BY CHARLES E. YALLOWITZ (Fantasy) (2 copies left)

  How about a modern twist on Tudor history? Relive the life of Henry VIII through the eyes of Harry Lanchester and his merry wives. REQUEST A COPY OF KINGS AND QUEENS BY TERRY TYLER (Contemporary) (1 copy left)

  Are you in a romantic mood? How about a romantic Highland fling? REQUEST A COPY OF TALL, DARK AND KILTED BY LIZZIE LAMB (Romance) (2 copies left)

  Or how about a romantic romp with journalists in Norfolk with wedding bells in the air? REQUEST A COPY OF BOOT CAMP BRIDE BY LIZZIE LAMB(Romance) (2 copies left)

  Want to escape your superpowers? Null City is they place to be in this New Adult paranormal fantasy. REQUEST A COPY OF ONE WAY FARE BY BARB AND HANNAH TAUB(Paranormal NA Fantasy) (1 Copy left)

  More tales from Null City, can be easily read as a stand alone or part of the series.. REQUEST A COPY OF DON’T TOUCH BY BARB TAUB(Paranornal NA Fantasy)

  How about a bit of  history? England 1647, civil war and Matthew Hopkins sweeps through the land as the Witchfinder. REQUEST A COPY OF THE BLACK HOURS BY ALISON WILLIAMS (Historical)

  Could you see yourself at a tournament of Gamesmen as they play a game of Comet? There’s a mystery man and a potion maker in this fantasy. REQUEST A COPY OF THE BIRR ELIXIR BY JO SPARKES (YA Fantasy)

  Love a thriller? Travel with John Cannon as his relaxing leave of absence turns into a nightmare when his boat is attacked by terrorists. REQUEST A COPY OF MY GRL BY JOHN W. HOWELL(Thriller) (1 copy left)

  Can we tempt you with a spiritual quest? Albion, is the oldest name for Britain. Wen and Don take you on a mystical journey through Myths and Legends of these blessed Isles. REQUEST A COPY OF THE HEART OF ALBION BY SUE VINCENT & STUART FRANCE ( A spiritual quest around England) (All copies have now been requested)

  Crime? The first book in the Georgie Connelly crime series. Join feisty documentary film-maker Georgie as she dangerously plans to expose Gentleman’s Clubs. REQUEST A COPY OF BUSINESS AS USUAL BY E.L.LINDLEY(Crime) (2 copies left)

NON-FICTION here’s the chance to get some help promoting your work. REQUEST A COPY OF HOW TO PROMOTE AND MARKET YOUR BOOK BY MADI PREDA (Non-Fiction) (2 Copies Left)

  There’s more romance on it’s way.  Marianne Coltrane’s writes an award winning scoop about the sale of babies. Destiny will take her to an island off the wild west coast of Ireland. Love a mix of Ireland and romance? REQUEST A COPY OF THE HOLLOW HEART BY ADREINNE VAUGHAN(Romance) (2 copies left)

  If you’ve read The Hollow Heart by Adrienne Vaughan, here’s your chance to loose yourself in more Irish themed romance with the second book in the series. REQUEST A COPY OF A CHANGE OF HEART BY ADREINNE VAUGHAN (Romance) (2 copies left)

  How about a murder mystery set in a coastal resort in Maine? REQUEST A COPY OF DEATH IN A RED CANVAS CHAIR BY N.A GRANGER (Murder Mystery) (All copies have now been requested)

 Step back in time to Georgia and the deep south for this book, real people struggling to survive with segregation and inequality. This is a fictionalised real story. REQUEST A COPY OF RED CLAY AND ROSES BY S.K. NICHOLLS (1 copy left)

 TJ Therien has his fantasy book for FREE on Smashwords and Barnes and Noble (Nook), so no limit on the number of copies but he’d still like reviews. (Fantasy) Only

 British Adult comedy comes in the form of the Derek series, we have the first book available as a kindle download for UK reader/ challengers only. REQUEST A COPY OF PLEASE CALL ME DEREK BY MAC BLACK (British Adult Humour)

 1867, the American Wild West. British raised girl Annie meets wild man Colt McCall after a stagecoach crash. Fantastic cowboy romance. (Voucher from Amazon.co.uk or Amazon.com to download the book.) REQUEST A COPY OF AN ENGLISHWOMAN’S GUIDE TO THE COWBOY BY JUNE KEARNS (Historical romance) (1 copy left)

 1924, the English Shires. Jazzing flappers and a half share in a million acre ranch in Texas. (voucher from Amazon.co.uk or Amazon.com to download the book.) REQUEST A COPY OF THE 20’S GIRL, THE GHOST AND ALL THAT JAZZ BY JUNE KEARNS (Historical Romance) (2 copies Left)

 16 year old Jade discovers her Grandmother was murdered. She sets out to find the mystery commune killer. REQUEST A COPY OF JADED BY KRISTY FELTENBERGER-GILLESPI.(YA Thriller) (1 copy left)

Twas the night before Chri…..the Book Review Challenge!

“Twas the night before Chri…” opps!(The Wrong Book and exactly six months adrift)…The Book Review Challenge!

If you’re not familiar with the plain honesty of this blog, then COME ON IN, everyone’s welcome, there’s plenty of room, find yourself a cosy couch (Yes we spell things the English way and the typo way here.) I’m sure over the next few days I bubble over with so much enthusiasm to bend your ear and generally encourage you to take up a book and write a review, that I’ll offend a few readers with my typos and my opinions. I’d like to hope they’ll make you smile rather than cringe and that you’ll indulge me as I rabbit on.

So what have we got lined up for you?

Coming up on Wednesday 25th June – Book reviewing by Rosie Amber + easy to follow tips for writing your own review+ genres; moving out of your comfort zone+ How Martin Sisters Publishing views Book reviews.

Thursday 26th June – Book reviewing by Bodicia from A Woman’s Wisdom + How to download a PDF file of a book to your kindle+ non-fiction reviews.

Friday 27th June – The Importance of book reviews by author Terry Tyler + a look at Goodreads + A bad or negative review, should you write it?

Saturday 28th June – Book Reviewing by Diane Coto from Fictionzeal + Shelfari + Going in deep, talking more about reviews.

Sunday 29th June – Book reviewing by Ionia Martin from Readfulthings + Reviewing to Amazon + Gearing up to write that review.

Monday 30th June – The Importance of book reviews by Lizzie Lamb + Authors should walk to the book reviewers side of the fence.

Then it’s over to you…

From July 1st 3 e-copies of the following books will be sent out FREE for you to read. All we ask is for you to read just 1 and write a review which will then be posted here and other sites where possible.

You can request a book anytime, I shall try to keep posts up to date with book availability. Do check-in with me if you think you haven’t heard back.

When books are requested I will confirm by e-mail. Please check your SPAM folder if you think you haven’t heard from me. Similarly when books get sent out by authors they may go into SPAM please do check. I always try to reply within a reasonable time but super efficient spam folders do foil me sometimes.

First come first served.

  Do you fancy an adventure in the forests of Windemere with young warrior Luke Callindor sent to protect the heir of Duke Soloman? REQUEST A COPY OF BEGINNING OF A HERO BY CHARLES E. YALLOWITZ (Fantasy) (2 copies left)

  How about a modern twist on Tudor history? Relive the life of Henry VIII through the eyes of Harry Lanchester and his merry wives. REQUEST A COPY OF KINGS AND QUEENS BY TERRY TYLER (Contemporary) (1 copy left)

  Are you in a romantic mood? How about a romantic Highland fling? REQUEST A COPY OF TALL, DARK AND KILTED BY LIZZIE LAMB (Romance) (2 copies left)

  Or how about a romantic romp with journalists in Norfolk with wedding bells in the air? REQUEST A COPY OF BOOT CAMP BRIDE BY LIZZIE LAMB(Romance) (2 copies left)

  Want to escape your superpowers? Null City is they place to be in this New Adult paranormal fantasy. REQUEST A COPY OF ONE WAY FARE BY BARB AND HANNAH TAUB(Paranormal NA Fantasy) (1 Copy left)

  Perhaps you’ve read One Way Fare? Here’s a chance to read the second book in the series. REQUEST A COPY OF DON’T TOUCH BY BARB TAUB(Paranornal NA Fantasy)

  How about a bit of  history? England 1647, civil war and Matthew Hopkins sweeps through the land as the Witchfinder. REQUEST A COPY OF THE BLACK HOURS BY ALISON WILLIAMS (Historical)

  Could you see yourself at a tournament of Gamesmen as they play a game of Comet? There’s a mystery man and a potion maker in this fantasy. REQUEST A COPY OF THE BIRR ELIXIR BY JO SPARKES (YA Fantasy)

  Love a thriller? Travel with John Cannon as his relaxing leave of absence turns into a nightmare when his boat is attacked by terrorists. REQUEST A COPY OF MY GRL BY JOHN W. HOWELL(Thriller) (1 copy left)

  Can we tempt you with a spiritual quest? Albion, is the oldest name for Britain. Wen and Don take you on a mystical journey through Myths and Legends of these blessed Isles. REQUEST A COPY OF THE HEART OF ALBION BY SUE VINCENT & STUART FRANCE ( A spiritual quest around England) (All copies have now been requested)

  Crime? The first book in the Georgie Connelly crime series. Join feisty documentary film-maker Georgie as she dangerously plans to expose Gentleman’s Clubs. REQUEST A COPY OF BUSINESS AS USUAL BY E.L.LINDLEY(Crime) (2 copies left)

NON-FICTION here’s the chance to get some help promoting your work. REQUEST A COPY OF HOW TO PROMOTE AND MARKET YOUR BOOK BY MADI PREDA (Non-Fiction) (2 Copies Left)

  There’s more romance on it’s way.  Marianne Coltrane’s writes an award winning scoop about the sale of babies. Destiny will take her to an island off the wild west coast of Ireland. Love a mix of Ireland and romance? REQUEST A COPY OF THE HOLLOW HEART BY ADREINNE VAUGHAN(Romance) (2 copies left)

  If you’ve read The Hollow Heart by Adrienne Vaughan, here’s your chance to loose yourself in more Irish themed romance with the second book in the series. REQUEST A COPY OF A CHANGE OF HEART BY ADREINNE VAUGHAN (Romance) (2 copies left)

  How about a murder mystery set in a coastal resort in Maine? REQUEST A COPY OF DEATH IN A RED CANVAS CHAIR BY N.A GRANGER (Murder Mystery) (All copies have now been requested)

 Step back in time to Georgia and the deep south for this book, real people struggling to survive with segregation and inequality. This is a fictionalised real story. REQUEST A COPY OF RED CLAY AND ROSES BY S.K. NICHOLLS (1 copy left)

 TJ Therien has his fantasy book for FREE on Smashwords and Barnes and Noble (Nook), so no limit on the number of copies but he’d still like reviews. (Fantasy) Only

 British Adult comedy comes in the form of the Derek series, we have the first book available as a kindle download for UK reader/ challengers only. REQUEST A COPY OF PLEASE CALL ME DEREK BY MAC BLACK (British Adult Humour)

 1867, the American Wild West. British raised girl Annie meets wild man Colt McCall after a stagecoach crash. Fantastic cowboy romance. (Voucher from Amazon.co.uk or Amazon.com to download the book.) REQUEST A COPY OF AN ENGLISHWOMAN’S GUIDE TO THE COWBOY BY JUNE KEARNS (Historical romance) (1 copy left)

 1924, the English Shires. Jazzing flappers and a half share in a million acre ranch in Texas. (voucher from Amazon.co.uk or Amazon.com to download the book.) REQUEST A COPY OF THE 20’S GIRL, THE GHOST AND ALL THAT JAZZ BY JUNE KEARNS (Historical Romance) (2 copies Left)

 16 year old Jade discovers her Grandmother was murdered. She sets out to find the mystery commune killer. REQUEST A COPY OF JADED BY KRISTY FELTENBERGER-GILLESPI.(YA Thriller) (1 copy left)