My book reviews began several years ago when a Publishing client asked me to review books. I found I enjoyed reading new material and creating my impressions of the work. Since then, I’ve read and reviewed hundreds of books in many genres. At first, I offered ‘i’ll review yours if you review mine’ sort of bargain. I upheld my end of the bargain for a few authors then one stated, rather rudely and obnoxiously “Oh, I never give reciprocal reviews.” Then I discovered that some writers are bitter and vengeful. If they receive a lower than 5-star review, I’ve seen them trash the reviewer’s books and get  their friends to trash the books.
If I find a book that’s free on Amazon Kindle store, and it holds my interest, I’ll review it here, on my blog then copy it over on Amazon’s store. If I take unsolicited books and manuscripts, I feel there’s an expectation of a 4 or 5 star review. If I give a book a well-deserved lower score, I want that freedom. And I have given 1, 2 and 3 star reviews. I’m not malicious about my reviews, rather, I give reasons and helpful hints and tips from a well-meaning point of view.
Since I began reviewing books and posting here and copying over on Amazon, I’ve had hundreds of authors offering me their books, free, for a review. I understand completely, having written a few books myself how much a good review means to an author. I haven’t reviewed books in quite some time, after I discovered no one was reading my blog posts-book reviews, health and fitness articles, book lists. These take time to create and post, if no one is going to read my posts, that time can be better spent elsewhere. IMHO.
So, fellow authors and writers, don’t take it personally that I don’t take up your offer to review your book if you send it to me.
Brick ONeil 