I was a reader long before I ever started reviewing books.
The first book I can remember reviewing online was Most
Eligible Bachelor (Men of Distinction Book 1) by Empi Baryeh in 2013 and I’ve been rocking on ever since.
Why do I review books, you ask? I’ll tell you (even if you
didn’t) all in a handy top five list. Just so you know, my reasons are not in
chronological order.
- It makes me feel like Ms. Oprah Winfrey when I post a review, especially on my blog. Okay so I don’t have as much influence as her (yet), nor do I have a stamp which tells the world that the book belongs in my book club, nor are NYT bestselling authors throwing themselves at me trying to get me to read their books, nor… None-the-less, It makes me feel the teensiest bit powerful, just like Ms. Winfrey.
- I get to share my opinions about a book with the world. I’ve had two friends voraciously recommended a series to me at two separate times- The Stephanie Plum stories by Janet Evanovich. When I got around to reading the recommended books and inevitably liked them they gloated. Big time. Sharing is caring right?
- I get to support writers who have labored over a story. It’s as if I’m part of their marketing team when I share a review.
- It’s fun, especially when the book is extraordinary. The review writes itself because I want to sing its praises to the world. And sometimes people in the world actually listen. When the book is average at best, the fun factor diminishes, but I still enjoy it.
- Sometimes, when I desire them and ask nicely, I get free books. Always a plus.
Why do you write book reviews?
Before becoming a writer, I never reviewed a book. I don't believe many readers even realize how essential reviews are to authors. But now that I'm an author, I like to pay it forward. Reviewing other authors books makes me feel like I'm helping them achieve their goals in a small, small way. Good Post Nana.
ReplyDeleteThanks Cathy. If I had known about writing reviews sooner I would've. I read books long before the e-book age.
DeleteLike Cathrina, I never reviewed books either - that was left for those 'in the know' who wrote reviews for the New York Times, etc. I'm not sure everyday people, readers or otherwise, ever left reviews until Amazon/GR's graced our lives :) #3 is my favorite reason...
ReplyDeleteThank goodness for online book purchases. It gave us review power.
DeleteReviewing is a great way to put your feelings and love for a book out in the world. Helping authors is also a bug plus.
ReplyDeleteQuite true.
DeleteI guess I love to review books so others can know about it and also to boost sales for the writer. But to be frank, I feel lazy to review books. And no matter how excellent a book, though I enjoy it tremendously, I just have this lazy attitude about reviewing it. I guess I try hard to just write that review and make my favorite authors (you included) very happy.
ReplyDeleteI'm glowing. Thank you Celestine. Reviewing is not always easy. It takes energy and brain power to get it done. It's work!
DeleteI review because I want to share the books that I enjoy with as many people as I can. I don't have a talent for writing myself, but I feel like I am helping spread the word when I find a good book. Besides, I'm a book hoarder and it helps me to justify buying more! ;)
ReplyDeleteYou have me laughing, Monica. Who needs justification when it comes to book buying? We can never have too many.
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