I've recently had an encounter with a self-published author that's left me wondering about my blog and its purpose. He was wonderful and understanding when I told him I wouldn't be reviewing his book on my blog.
I took on his book because the summary I was given sounded very good and he had some writing credentials behind him.
It turned out to be a disappointment to me, at least, and I didn't want to insult him with a review that would be basically a "non-recommendation." It was a slap-stick of a book, poorly edited (in such a way that really set my teeth on edge), with a weak attempt at humor, and set in the 1600's with none of the historical landmarks. All my opinion, of course. Again, why insult the man? Why drag my readers down a rabbit hole?
I wanted to run some things by you, those who read here and those who make decision about what books you choose to buy and read...just anyone who stops by to check out what's going on on the blog.
To tell the truth, I rarely accept self-published books anymore. I have found most of them disappointing. Those I have read and enjoyed, I've found still aren't up to a par that I would feel comfortable giving a rating or recommendation to you for purchasing for a read. I'm wondering if I should change that philosophy. Maybe I'm wrong. Perhaps I'm a literary snob.
I'm wondering if I choose to take on a self-published book, and I don't find it a worthy book; that is, if I'd give it a 2 or below star rating...I should just go ahead and review and rate it for you. Or, if you think it would be a waste of your and my time to do that.
My philosophy has been to choose only the books I feel are worthy of reading and reviewing. I don't want to waste my time or yours! I choose books I think are of high caliber and literary interest, which is why my reviews and ratings tend to be high. My other reviews and ratings tend to happen if I've chosen a book that's been "hyped" by the publishing world that really doesn't live up to its expectation, in my humble opinion.
I'm generally not interested in bringing on a book that is blatantly not well written, or that I feel isn't worthwhile to spend time reading...even as a library take-out.
What's the point? Am I wrong?
I NEED YOUR INPUT.
What would you like to see me do here? What types of books would you like reviewed?
Would you like to have me review the occasional self-published novel even if it's a bust?
Please give me your comments below. I'd love to hear from you.
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