What is your stand on paid reviews?
I believe if a publication pays for reviews, that's obviously a good thing. However, if you're asking if I think it's legitimate for authors or publishers to pay for people to review their books, I would have to say I believe that's unethical. If you pay someone to review a book and you're an author or a publisher, then it seems you're 'buying' a positive review. In addition, I believe if you have a personal or professional 'axe to grind' against an author or publisher, I believe you should not review any books related to said author or publisher. I've seen reviewers and others try to inflict damage on an author's reputation and work by posting less-than-positive reviews that were based on a personal vendetta rather than an objective view of the book itself.
Do you think it’s okay for reviewers to resell the books or advance review copies they review?
If a reviewer has many books and needs, for whatever reason, to thin out his/her previously read and reviewed books, then I think donating them to the library would be the first recommended action. I don't believe advance review copies should be sold or donated under any circumstance, though.
What are the most common mistakes amateur reviewers make?
Going over or under the word count. This is because they either haven't been detailed enough with their review, or they haven't imparted the necessary information and criticism in a succinct and cogent manner.
With so many major newspapers getting rid of their book review sections, how do you see the future of online review sites?
I believe online review sites will continue to grow, and if there's a shortage of reviews in print papers, that void will be filled by online reviews and reviewers.
Do you keep the author’s feelings in mind when you review?
Yes, in that comments or criticism about a book and its author should always be constructive, as well as honest. I believe a criticism or a comment should be constructive rather than just mean or intentionally nit-picky. Authors put their hearts and souls into their books.
Have you received aggressive responses from authors or publishers because of a negative review? If yes, how do you handle it?
Article comments
1 - Joy Delgado
Mayra and Bev,
Thank you for another great interview. I like how you handle not totally positive reviews, the authors and/or publishers of those books. Very helpful information.
Joy
2 - A. F. Stewart
Terrific observations. I love that you post author press releases on your site; a great idea.
3 - Margot Finke
Mayra, I love Scribe and Quill. Your interview of Bev Walton-Porter shows how multi-talented one lady can be. WHEW! Enjoyed every word, mate.
Margot Finke
"Rattlesnake Jam"
Crazy rhyming fun with Gra,
Pa, and making rattler jam.
4 - Lesa Holstine
Mayra,
What a wonderful job you do with the interviews! Each interview is unique and brings out the flavor of the review site. Thank you.
5 - Diana
Thanks for such an informative interview!
6 - Pauline Jones
Also interesting! I'm learning so much, many thanks!
7 - Margay
Bev, I admire you for your take on reviewers and the question of ethics regarding paid reviews, etc. I think it is important for writers to get that kind of honest review - how else will they learn what appeals/doesn't appeal to the audience? How else will they grow as writers? I enjoyed your interview.