Jan 02 2009
Meet Ramya’s Bookshelf
Blog Name: Ramya’s Bookshelf
Blog URL: http://ramyasbookshelf.blogspot.com
Blog Owner: Ramya
1. What motivated you to create a book review blog?
I started this blog three years ago to keep tab of all the books I was reading. And I added a little snippet from each book I read, a little something to help me remember the book. But soon, I found other book lovers across the globe and became part of this wonderful book blogging community. Now, my blog’s become an addiction and I have so many new friends!
2. What do you find most rewarding about book reviewing?
I love reading good books and I had a very tough time getting to know about interesting books (before I got into the book blogging world). So I enjoy it when people find good books on my blog and decide to read them and actually enjoy the experience. That to me is the most rewarding part of this.
3. What types of books do you review?
I love a good story. So I usually read anything that is an interesting story - memoirs, fiction novels, YA books, etc. I enjoy chick-lits every now and then. Chick-lits are my recharging mechanisms after reading something heavy. My favorite books are , however , books by international authors. Books based in different countries from around the world. I love getting to know the culture and traditions of people from around the world, and books are the best solutions!
4. In what genre do you consider yourself to have the most expertise?
I do not consider myself an expert reviewer. I love books and I love writing about books I have read. I tend to write honest reviews and I don not shy away from mentioning things I did not like about a book. I think that helps my readers to get a fair view of the book and helps them make a more informed decision. I read a wide range of books and don’t really concentrate on any one genre.
5. Is there any type of book that you absolutely will not review?
Self-help and religious propaganda books.
6. Do you accept submissions from self-published authors?
Of course! I can imagine how tough it would be for self published authors to get the word across about their book. If I like the premise of the book, I would definitely read books by self published authors and do my share in spreading the word about the book!
7. Do you accept PDF versions or e-books for review?
Not frequently. I find it tough to read ebooks. My day job involves being stuck in front a computer all day and I don’t like to stare at the screen when I am back home as well.
8. Can an author guest blog for you?
Sure! I have authors guest-blogging for me frequently and I enjoy reading and posting what they have to say!
9. Do you host book giveaways?
Never hosted one until now but I am not averse to the idea.
10. Do you interview authors?
Yes. I am part of virtual book tours and I host about 3 to 4 authors each month on my blog. I interview a few of them and I allow a few to submit a guest post.
11. Do you ever host stops on an organized book tour?
Yes. I am part of TLC book tours, pump up your book promotion and Promo 101 Virtual Blog Tours. I love the experience.
12. What is the average turnaround time for a review, from the time the book arrives in your mailbox until the review is posted?
Usually a week (if that is the only book I receive that week). Some weeks are crazy and I receive more than 10 books. At that time, I read books in priority order. I try to complete all my reviews for books within a month of receiving the book (even if it is not part of a tour).
13. Do you cross-post reviews to Amazon or other sites?
I post some reviews on LibraryThing. Never posted on Amazon but I plan to start doing it soon.
14. Will you notify an author by email when a review is posted?
If the author has contacted me requesting a review, I usually let them know that the review is up. If the publicist contacts me, then my email is directed to the publicist.
15. Do you have any specific requirements for review submission?
Hmm.. not exactly.
16. Where can authors submit review queries and to whom should they be addressed?
Authors can contact me - Ramya. My email address: ramyasbookshelf(at)gmail(dot)com
