Absolutely. But I also keep the future of her craft in mind.
Have you received aggressive responses from authors or publishers because of a negative review? If yes, how do you handle it?
Not so far. I did quit reviewing for a newspaper who demanded that I write only good things because it was a "family newspaper." This is a freedom of the press issue. Reviews — once committed — get to say what they want. Only their own standards should affect what they say.
What does your blog offer readers?
The New Book Review offers readers a variety of review for books that they might miss if they only peruse the major journals.
What promotional opportunities does your blog offer authors?
Oh, you know me. All publicity and exposure is good publicity and exposure.
What is the most rewarding aspect of being a reviewer?
Well, I am an author's advocate — at least with some of my writing. Therefore I'm always interested in helping authors reach readers with what they are passionate about. That's certainly why they write, right?
Is there anything else you would like to say about you or The New Book Review?
Just please come to The New Book Review. To find new and different material to read. Authors should come to reach new readers, cross-promote, and grow their footprint on the Google search engine.
Article comments
1 - Jennifer Bogart
I noticed in the submission guidelines for The New Book Review that Amazon reviews are not accepted. I know that in the past Amazon claimed ownership of these reviews, but upon going o ver their review terms a week or so ago, it seems that they have changed them to a non-exclusive printing of the reviews. Has anyone else noticed this?
2 - kbaccellia
Interesting interview! I have Carolyn Howard-Johnson's book on promotion, which helped me when I first started getting word out about my own book.
I'll have to check out this review site!
3 - A. F. Stewart
What a terrific idea for a review site!
Intriguing thoughts about the whole world of reviews.
4 - Joy Delgado
Thank you Mayra and Carolyn for this great interview. I forwarded the link to an author I wrote a review for that was upset my review wasn't a facile review. I agree with you Carolyn that we should keep in mind the author's feelings but at the same time 'keep the future of her craft in mind.' Very well put.
Joy
5 - Beverly McClure
I love the idea of the New Book Review Blog. Thanks for another great interview, Mayra, and for your work helping to promote writers, Carolyn. I'm off to check out your site.
Have a good week.
6 - c hoare
More useful information, and some ideas I'd never have thought of.
I can ask reviewers who have posted reviews I like of my books permission to send them here as well? The more places the better.
And the promotion works -- I'm going to get off my butt and order a copy of Frugal Book Promoter -- that I've been meaning to for years.
Chris H.
7 - Carolyn Howard-Johnson
This review brought so many submissions to The New Book Review and I am so glad. Of course, that will slow the process down a bit. I try to leave each review up a few days so that the author has time to promote it (that's what reviews are all about, putting our books forward! (-: ) . So be patient. And, Chris, "Yes!!!!" I know you'll get a lot out of The Frugal Book Promoter. Lots of easy-to-do ideas and great resources. (-:
Best,
Carolyn
8 - Margay
Carolyn, I like the way your blog is set up. I think it's very innovative to have authors post reviews from other sites - what reviewer wouldn't want that kind of exposure for themselves? What a great way to promote their work. Margay