If you’ve followed my blog since the start 3 years ago, then you know that I took almost 2 years off before starting back up again this past June/July. I’ve been very fortunate that many of you have subscribed and followed me since then! But the focus of my blog has shifted significantly since it began.
When I began blogging, I posted mostly about myself and about my writing pursuits. Since starting back up this past summer, I’ve been focusing on book reviews and related bookish topics. I’ve been overwhelmed with the response to the change in focus, and I’m very happy about that, but it does mean I’m going to need to make a few changes.
So I’m giving everyone fair warning… Over the next month or so, I’ll be making a lot of changes to my site. Some are necessary changes, and some are just fun things I want to do.
But one immediate change needs to be made… Due to the high volume of e-mails I receive daily for review requests, my Review Disclosure Policy must be updated, effective immediately! I’ve listed the immediate changes below:
Current:
- I accept both e- and print books. Please note that I do prefer to receive actual print books, as I’m kinda old-fashioned in my note taking and it’s easier for me to reference my notes while writing my reviews. (Also, they smell better than my Kindle.) If you’re sending an e-version, please send in .mobi.
Updated:
- I accept both e- and print books. Please note that I do prefer to receive actual print books, as I’m kinda old-fashioned in my note taking and it’s easier for me to reference my notes while writing my reviews. Therefore, when on the fence about reviewing a book, preference may be given to those willing to offer a print book. (Also, they smell better than my Kindle.) If you’re sending an e-version, please send in .mobi.
Current:
- I will respond to all requests (except in the scenario later in this list). While I try to respond within 24 hours, this is not always possible. Please be patient.
Updated:
- While I do try, I cannot guarantee a response to all requests. If you have not heard back from me in two weeks, please feel free to resubmit your request. When resubmitting, please let me know that you are doing so.
Current:
- I am on Goodreads, Facebook, Twitter, and LibraryThing. I will post reviews to Amazon as well.
Updated:
- I am on Goodreads, Facebook, Twitter, and LibraryThing. I will post reviews to Amazon as well, although I cannot guarantee those reviews will not be removed. I have had problems with Amazon approving and then later removing my reviews in the past. I cannot be responsible for removal by Amazon. I apologize in advance should this happen. (I do try to stay up to date and in compliance with all of Amazon’s review policies.)
Current:
- I do accept books for review consideration from publicists, agents, authors, etc. Yes, this includes self-published authors. It does not mean that I will agree to receive every one that is suggested. Please, do not take it personally and do not get nasty. While I may not be open or able to review your current book, I may be dying to read and review the next (or even a previous one). However, negative responses to my declining to review will result in me not responding to future requests or emails from that author.
Updated:
- I do accept books for review consideration from publicists, agents, authors, etc. Yes, this includes self-published authors. It does not mean that I will agree to receive every one that is suggested. I receive a large volume of review requests and therefore can only accept every request. Please, do not take it personally and do not get nasty. While I may not be open or able to review your current book, I may be dying to read and review the next (or even a previous one). However, negative responses to my declining to review will result in me not responding to future requests or emails from that author.
Addition to Current Policy:
- Acceptance of a book for review does not guarantee that that book will be reviewed. While I do try to review every book I accept, not every book is a great fit for me and I will not review a book I did not finish reading. If a book is accepted and is later DNF’d, I will contact the person who requested the book be reviewed via e-mail to let them know.
- When deciding whether to accept a book for possible review, preference will be given to books written by authors I have previously reviewed, books in the below categories, and books featuring positive representation of bi-racial characters. Please be sure to mention these in your review request. (It also helps if you actually follow/read my posts.)
Thank you all for understanding the necessity of these changes. I hate even having a review policy, but I found it to be a necessary evil very quickly! Also, I’m totally open to suggestions!!! I’m so thankful to the book blogger community for helping with so much over the last few months and would love some feedback!
As always, comment below or use the Contact Me form! I look forward to hearing from you!
Jess Combs 
Let's talk about it! Leave a comment below. I'd love to hear your thoughts...