As of early 2016, I began writing select book reviews on this blog and sharing them via my Goodreads account and other relevant platforms.
Most of the reviews are books I’ve decided to read entirely of my own volition and as such fall into certain specific categories often revolving around speculative fiction–this should not be surprising in the least. A variety of other genres will appear at whim. Some of the books are titles I’ve received for free through NetGalley, Edelweiss, Blogging For Books, First Reads, other similar programs, or directly from an author or publisher; I will always specify as much in my reviews, though I never accept titles under the expectation that my reviews will be favorable. I’ll also clarify if there are any other conflicts of interest (e.g., if it’s a friend’s book).
All links to titles in the review will go to Goodreads unless otherwise specified; I receive no compensation for traffic created by these links. I also have no direct relationship with any entities whose ads appear on this blog. Any apparent relationship an ad has to my review content is coincidental and driven by WordPress, not me.
As of late 2019, I’m switching my review style. My previous format didn’t work for me as well as I’d hoped, and I’m far more confident a reviewer now than I was then. Before 2019, you can expect to see reviews dissecting books from the point of view of a reader, writer, and editor. Afterward, I speak as a reviewer to readers about my reading experience.
That experience, of course, is the culmination of my other reading, my identities, my privileges, and my blind spots. I will absolutely be reviewing work by people whose experiences do not match my own. I will be reviewing ownvoices work by people who do not look, speak, think, move, or otherwise human like me. I will, inevitably, mess up. If/when I do, call me in, and I will strive to do better.
I’m happy to consider requests for review. Please send me an email with a description of the book, the way you prefer I read it (hard-copy vs ebook; Nook vs Kindle), any requests for additional review platforms, and your deadline, if you have one. I certainly will not be able to accommodate all request, but I’ll be thrilled that you asked.
Victoria Sandbrook 