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Studio Headphones with Share port, Foldable, Wired, and Wireless Professional Monitor Recording Headphones

  • Jock lock design: To make sure the cable lock is in place to ensure a secure connection, we add a jack lock system on the stereo Aux cable. You don’t have to worry about any connection problems when connecting the jacks and sockets.
  • Soft Memory Earcups: The breathable protein skin earmuffs and the soft sponge inside improve the wearing experience, make sure good sound insulation and there is no discomfort for long-term wear
  • Music or Sound Sharing: Pair your device via Bluetooth and share your tunes through the audio cable, 2 or more people can share music moments at the same time
  • Receiving Music at Both Ends: Connect two devices with a 3.5mm cable and another 6.35mm cable, and the music at both ends will be transmitted to ear at the same time, such as connect your phone and guitar simultaneously
  • 50 hours playtime&40mm driver: 50-hour playback time to deliver a wireless experience. 40mm drivers – inner & outer rings deliver vibrant bass, vivid midst & vivacious highs without overlap

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Weight 0.25 kg

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Dear Alma Mater: I Am Very Successful, So Why Haven’t You Featured Me In the Alumni Magazine?

Dear University I gave lots of tuition money to and received a solid 2.9 GPA from,

This month I received the alumni magazine and, once again, was shocked to not see my face featured as one of your notable graduates.

This is nothing new. To be clear, every month since the day I graduated I have been appalled at the lack of me featured in the pages of your publication. And now I must speak out about it, or at least send you this sternly written letter in the middle of the night while I polish off this pint of ice cream.

Let me break it down for you:

I’m important. How do I know that? I have three computers at work. Not one. Not two. Three computers. (Okay, technically, three monitors. But I know the difference and that makes me smart.)

And guess what I have on all three of my desktop backgrounds? If you guessed a beautiful image of your campus, you’re wrong. It’s flowers. But I could change it if I wanted to, because A) I’m allowed to and B) I have a stock photo subscription.

So, at this point you’re thinking, “how did we let this incredibly successful alumni slip through the cracks of aerospace engineers and doctors-turned-philanthropists?” (And yes, I know the singular of alumni is alumnus I was just checking to see you were still reading.)

Don’t even worry about it. I can interview myself for your next issue because I’m always one step ahead. For example: I always use the Keurig before we run out of K cups at work.

Question: What do you do on all three of your computers to be so successful?
Answer: Different computer stuff than other people in my office. No overlap whatsoever.

Question: What professional certifications do you have?
Answer: I’m halfway to being HubSpot certified in Email Marketing. Also, one time, I added “Good Vibes” to my featured skills on LinkedIn as a joke but people keep endorsing me for it.

Question: If an employer asks me if I know how to code websites just because I’m a millennial, what do I say?
Answer: Yes. You say yes. And then you get a free Squarespace account and you learn how to use that ish.

Question: Walk me through a typical day at work.
Answer: First I drive to work. I get a reserved parking spot. Unless Dan’s in town. Then Dan gets my parking spot and I get to park like half a mile away and take a beautiful morning stroll. Then I check my email on my three computers. Most weeks, I meal prep, but last week I forgot and threw a mostly empty can of raisins in my purse. I get to eat lunch at my desk which is fun for me because I don’t like talking to people. Then, for the rest of the day I get to do all sorts of important things like answer phone calls with my very professional phone call voice, do firm-grip handshakes, and pet the office dog.

Question: How do you define your success?
Answer: Simple. It comes down to numbers. I have three computers and I’m on time three out of five days a week. That’s 80%.

In conclusion, I am willing to forgive you for not contacting me previously to be featured in your alumni magazine. I’m happy to inform you of my own success. After all, one of my greatest strengths as a professional is being able to see my own great strengths.

Thank you in advance for your consideration for next month’s issue of your alumni magazine.

P.S. Y’all hiring? I know how to code websites.

About the author

Michelle Leatherby

Mortgage professional by day, comedy writer by night (or by day if no one's looking).
Medium: @michelle.leatherby

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Is Delta-9 Safe?

is delta9 safe

Is delta-9 safe?, also known as delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), is a traditional cannabinoid that produces euphoric effects. These effects last anywhere from two to six hours. Compared to its close cousins, Delta 8 and Delta 10, delta-9 THC is particularly potent and powerful. Its effects are deeply relaxing and can trigger feelings of euphoria, anxiety, and paranoia.

It’s Also Important To Note That You May Experience Anxiety And Depression After Taking A Large Dose

Consumers should take care when deciding which Delta 9 product is best for them. It’s recommended to stick to a single dose at a time and consult a doctor. It’s safe to consume Delta 9 in small doses, but excessive consumption may lead to bad effects. As with any strain, it’s best to use moderate amounts.

Delta-9 THC is a psychoactive compound found in marijuana and hemp. It acts by stimulating the hippocampus, a region of the brain involved in memory. However, this chemical is only present in trace amounts in hemp. While delta 9 is legal, it has not yet been approved by the FDA. However, many states have legalized the use of hemp products for medicinal purposes.

There are several potential benefits of Delta 9 THC, and it is well-known for being useful for recreational and medicinal purposes. However, too much of this substance can have negative effects, including increased anxiety and paranoia. When used properly, this substance may also improve the symptoms associated with post-traumatic stress, poor appetite, and HIV/AIDS. But be cautious: it’s best to start with low doses and work your way up to higher ones.

ParaGard IUD Removal Side Effects Lawsuit

ParaGard IUD Removal Side Effects Lawsuit

Women suffering from pelvic inflammatory disease, active infections, and other medical conditions should not use the Paragard. While there have been no reported cases of copper poisoning, women are filing lawsuits because of complications that result after Paragard removal. In addition, the ParaGard Lawyer is prone to breaking during removal. In some cases, the broken pieces must be surgically removed, which can be painful and invasive. Women who have suffered from these side effects claim that the manufacturers of Paragard failed to adequately warn consumers of the risks, and the device is defective.

How to Know About ParaGard IUD Removal Side Effects Lawsuit

The value of Paragard lawsuit settlements will depend on the severity of the plaintiff’s injuries. Settlements will be divided into several tiers, with the highest tier representing plaintiffs with severe and permanent injuries. Meanwhile, lower tiers include plaintiffs who suffered from minor injuries and infections. In many cases, the payout will be lower than the initial investment. While compensation amounts may vary, they will be in the low to mid-tens of thousands.

In addition to the medical complications, women may also file a lawsuit against Cooper/Teva for failure to warn of these side effects. While the manufacturers of the Paragard IUD knew about the side effects of this device, they failed to warn women about them. This allowed many women to suffer permanent side effects after surgery. Cooper/Teva did not adequately warn women of the risks of the device, so many women suffered from complications that could have been avoided.

A Career As a Computer Technician

Computer Technicians

A career as a Computer Technician will involve solving complex problems related to computers. The duties of a Computer Technician can be varied, from repairing and maintaining computers to building hardware and software, installing software, and maintaining a computer network they provide services to most suburbs in Melbourne, Australia.. These technicians work in all aspects of computer repair. They may work for individuals or businesses, so it is imperative to know their specific area of expertise. For more information on a career as a Computer Technician, continue reading the following article.

Why You Choosing A Career As a Computer Technician

Besides troubleshooting computer problems, Computer Technicians also create computer systems and troubleshoot OS, hardware, software, network, and peripheral devices. These professionals also hold the A+ certification, which verifies their computer repair skills. There are several specialties that Computer Technicians may choose to pursue, such as laptops, desktops, and servers. In addition to the above, these professionals may also specialize in a particular computer or a network.

A Computer Technician should be able to effectively communicate with non-technical clients, so that they can explain their problems and recommend appropriate solutions. Having good communication skills is essential, as well as the ability to write email responses and webchat responses. Problem-solving skills refer to the ability to gather information, analyze, and process it. These skills are necessary for a career as a Computer Technician because they must frequently use them to figure out complex problems. Moreover, a Computer Technician should be knowledgeable about various types of operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Linux, and the network.

To become a Computer Technician, you should be passionate about fixing computers. You can also build your own computer and learn about different hardware and software. You will have the advantage of having your own customized computer, and the price tag will be lower than a comparable pre-built computer from the store. During this process, you will also develop your troubleshooting skills, as you will be dealing with common computer problems. Moreover, you can gain valuable experience even if you do not get hired right away.

Using a Tree Specialist Near Me

tree specialist near me

When you’re trying to make your urban trees safer, a tree specialist near me can be a valuable resource. These professionals have many different skills, and can help you manage the risks of urban trees and improve your property’s aesthetics. Using a specialist is the safest way to ensure the safety of your trees.

Help You Prevent Liability Issues Resulting From Falling Branches

Performing tree service removal can be a dangerous and complicated process. It requires multiple workers, specialized equipment, and several types of insurance. Expert arborists are able to safely remove trees, and can help you determine whether the removal is needed for human safety, aesthetics, or tree health. They will also carefully clear the perimeter around the tree to prevent injuries. They’ll also check for live electrical wires or crushed branches.

When hiring an arborist, remember to do your research. While there are many people who advertise as arborists, some of these professionals may not be certified. If you’re unsure, check with the Tree Care Industry Association for training, support, and resources. You can also perform a search on the internet to find a qualified arborist.

How an SEO Agency Can Help Your Site Rise in the Rankings

seo agency Rennes

An SEO agency can help your site rise in the ranks and increase your traffic. This is a cost-effective way to gain targeted traffic without spending money on advertising. There are many different companies that can do this for you. Each company offers a different service and price range. A consultant seo rennes will work with you to improve your website’s natural search results.

A Rennes SEO agency will help you define clear digital goals and implement an SEO strategy. They will also help you improve the visibility of your site and increase sales. SEO consultants can help you develop an effective strategy that will help your website climb the Google mountain. If you have a website in Rennes, it is important to hire an agency that can maximize your visibility and boost your online presence.

SEO Rennes agencies work with clients’ specific needs. The best way to ensure that you get the best results is to work with a company that has experience in your field. Premiere Page is a top-notch SEO agency with an exceptional staff. They are experienced and knowledgeable and their results speak for themselves.

An SEO agency can help your website get noticed in a fast-paced, instantaneous world. It can help you improve sales in your region and expand your business internationally. A Rennes SEO agency should be transparent and reliable.


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The Ohio Department of Agriculture raided the home of Rico Exotic, a popular TikToker, because he owns a monkey classified as a dangerous wild animal.

The grivet monkey appears frequently in Rico Exotic’s TikTok videos, which he shares with his 1.7 million followers. He does not have a permit to own the animal, but he claims he was not made aware of the requirement in Ohio.

On November 17, armed officials raided his recently purchased home in the state after receiving a tip.

“I turned the corner to my kitchen and there are five firearms and police shields in front of me. I was perplexed because I had no idea what I could have done to cause this “He told Cleveland’s News 5 about it. “They handcuff me, and I ask, ‘What did I do?’ and they say, ‘Where’s the monkey?” Rico Exotic’s social media posts demonstrate his attachment to the monkey, Mike, whom he refers to as his son. He began uploading images of his exotic animals on the app about a year ago and now has over 35 million likes.

“I provide them with a safe haven. I provide Mike with a safe haven. Many people believe in what I do and admire what I do “He stated.

“Growing up in poverty makes you a product of that poverty. Animals were my way of coping with my mental issues such as depression, anxiety, and paranoia caused by being in that environment.”

At his Ohio home, the TikToker also has a ring-tailed lemur, a coatimundi, and a raccoon.

Rico Exotic claims in a TikTok video that before moving to Ohio, he contacted the agriculture department and asked if he could keep the monkey. He claims he was told he could if he didn’t take it outside the house. He also claims that all of his animals have been registered with the US Department of Agriculture.

The Ohio Department of Transportation stated in a statement: “A grivet monkey was discovered at a home in Warren, Ohio, according to the Ohio Department of Agriculture. Grivet monkeys are classified as dangerous wild animals under Oregon Revised Statutes (ORC) 935.01. On Wednesday, November 17, 2021, ODA enforcement officers executed a search warrant at the home of [Rico Exotic] and discovered the grivet monkey.”

It was also stated that he “This monkey does not have a Dangerous Wild Animal permit from the Ohio Department of Agriculture.

The monkey was “placed under quarantine by ODA’s Division of Animal Health while we search for an appropriate sanctuary for it,” according to the ODA “According to the department. However, it stated that it had “received word that the monkey had been taken out of state The incident is currently being investigated.”

Rico Exotic told the news that he took Mike to a shelter in Tennessee himself, claiming that the agriculture department had warned him that if he didn’t move the monkey, “they were going to come back and take him.”

Rico Exotic used his TikTok account to post surveillance footage from the raid. He has also started a GoFundMe page to raise funds to relocate all of his animals out of state and establish an animal sanctuary. According to the page, the funds are required “so that I can legally relocate and get a new home for myself and my animals.”

The investigation into his animals is still ongoing, according to the Ohio Department of Agriculture.


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Posts Tagged ‘Book Reviews’

last stop parisSYNOPSIS

A full-throttle adventure through modern Europe and the Mediterranean … that’s part thriller, part mystery, and all rollicking ride.

Pearce again accomplishes every thriller writer’s aim: creating characters that the readers can root for and a believable, fast-paced storyline. The climax and denouement bring the storylines together neatly, but fans will see that there may yet be room for another book in the series.

When readers last saw Eddie Grant in Treasure of Saint-Lazare (2012), he was hot on the trail of Nazi war loot in the company of his on-again, off-again lover, Jen. As readers return to Eddie’s shadowy world of undercover deals and thugs in the employ of crime bosses, they find a quieter, more mature Eddie, now married to Aurélie, a scholar of some note, and living in pleasant domestic bliss. Onto this romantic scene come several of Eddie’s friends, who alert him to suspicious activity within his social circle, involving a man with criminal intentions and an interest in gold. Shortly afterward, a mysterious murder implicates another character from Eddie’s past. As he looks into the matter, Aurélie soon finds herself in danger; at the same time, Jen reappears in Eddie’s life, and he’s simultaneously drawn to her and eager to avoid falling into bed with her again. Soon, he and his comrades must track down another ring of criminals and protect themselves from fatal retribution.

Paige Donovan’s life is perfect. New promotion and a great boyfriend. All that changes with one phone call. Suddenly she finds herself headed to Black River, Colorado. Once there a white wolf keeps showing up. Including her bedroom.

Riley Grey wanted Paige from the moment they meet. Not even hos father’s disapproval can change that. Now he just has to convince Paige to stay in Black River. Oh and there’s the minor fact he’s a wolf in human skin.

Just as things start to look up everything changes.

I really loved the use of first person in this. Which is very unusual for me. Getting to see inside Paige’s head really added to the anticipation for me. Both Paige and Riley were will written and developed characters. I would have liked to know more about their father.

I really liked the challenges that Riley and Paige faced. You could tell that the writer had thought these out. My favorite part of he book however was the ending. It was such a twist on the typical ending. This is a great lazy day (or anytime) read. I would recommended this book to a friend.

I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

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carol.thumbnailCarolyn Howard-Johnson is the founder of Authors’ Coalition, an award-winning author and poet, a columnist for My Shelf, and an instructor for the UCLA Extension Writers’ Program. Her books include the popular titles The Frugal Promoter and The Frugal Editor, both USA Book News’ Award winners. Carolyn is also the editor of The New Book Review, a book review blog with a different twist: authors may submit reviews which have already been written about their books, thus extending the life of the reviews. In this interview, Johnson discusses the influence and effectiveness of reviews in terms of book promotion, among other things.

How influential are reviews on consumers?

For some consumers, they are very influential. My daughter-in-law (she helps me nominate books for my Noble (Not Nobel!) Prize that appears on MyShelf.com) buys her books almost exclusively on the basis of reviews. But different people buy their books differently. I believe that word-of-mouth is more influential and most studies uphold that view. By the way, winning a contest can be a big influence, too. And what a wonderful opportunity a win is to get the word on a book out there.

Do you think reviews can make or destroy an author’s career?

They say there is no such thing as bad publicity. I also think that many authors view reviews as bad reviews when they aren’t. A review will have more credibility if it isn’t all raves and rose petals. A balanced review is more credible. And like everything in our culture, reviews are short-lived. Everyone forgets them in short order. Except maybe the author.

Do you think there’s a lot of ‘facile praise’ among many online review sites?

Facile praise. Quite a term. Yes, I do. But if someone loves a book, who out there should tell them that they are wrong. I’d just prefer reviews to be a little more even-handed. After all, the review process is about learning for the author and credibility for the reader, too.

What is your stand on paid reviews?

I’m against them. Paying for something undermines its credibility. And, yes, that even applies to the paid reviews that Kirkus does.

Do you think it’s okay for reviewers to resell the books they review? What about advance review copies?

No, reviewers should donate their books to libraries. It is a fine point of ethics but an important one.

With so many major newspapers getting rid of their book review sections, how do you see the future of online review sites?

I think there is a place for shorter, quicker reviews online regardless of what the LA Times does with their pages. Still, one hates to see lovely old review sections in journals and newspapers deteriorate.

Do you keep the author’s feelings in mind when you review?

Absolutely. But I also keep the future of her craft in mind.

Have you received aggressive responses from authors or publishers because of a negative review? If yes, how do you handle it?

Not so far. I did quit reviewing for a newspaper who demanded that I write only good things because it was a “family newspaper.” This is a freedom of the press issue. Reviews — once committed — get to say what they want. Only their own standards should affect what they say.

Thanks for the interview, Carolyn!

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Bev Walton-Porter is an author, reviewer, freelancer, editor and publisher. She's the lady behind the succesful ezine, Scribe & Quill. Her books include Sun Signs for Writers, The Complete Writer: A Guide to Tapping Your Full Potential, and Mending Fences. Her work has appeared on many publications, both print and online. In this interview, Porter talks about her ezine and about various aspects of book reviewing.
How long have you been reviewing?
Wow…let me think! About 11 years, when I first became a full-time professional with my writing. I have reviewed books for Inkspot (the awesome site run by Debbie Ridpath Ohi many years ago), The Charlotte Austin Review website (now defunct), Bridges (based out of B.C. Canada), Suite101, Inscriptions, and, of course, Scribe & Quill.
Please tell us about Scribe & Quill. How and when did it get started?
My site isn't just for book reviews. Scribe & Quill covers many areas related to writing, reading and publishing – including book reviews. I first launched Scribe & Quill as a small e-zine on ListBot in the late 90s and it has evolved into a larger e-zine with 6,000+ subscribers, plus a web site, editing services and online professional writing courses that dovetail with and complement the zine.
I think longevity is our greatest hallmark. Scribe & Quill has been around in some form or another for over a decade, and in the online world (especially for small-size e-zines), that's a long time!
What is the most challenging aspect of running a review site?
Finding reliable reviewers who are also willing to review both print and electronically published books. We also like our reviewers to be willing to review any type of book, and sometimes that can be a challenge as well.
How many books do you review a month?
Since we no longer publish monthly, but rather quarterly, we publish five to ten reviews per issue. Due to the influx of review books, it's likely we'll publish additional ones on the site in between issues of the zine.
How many staff reviewers do you have?
Ten, but we are looking for more.
Are you currently recruiting more reviewers? If so, what are your guidelines?
Yes we are! Our guidelines can be found here. For further information, send an e-mail to scribequill@gmail.com with REVIEWER in the e-mail subject line.
How should an author contact you about a review request? Do you review e-books as well?
Have them send an e-mail to scribequill@gmail.com with REVIEW REQUEST in the subject line. We welcome e-books and actually prefer electronic copies of review books.
How do you select the books you review? How do you determine which reviews to post on your site?
If you send us a book, unrequested, we may or may not review it, depending on our current queue. It's best to send a query first, then we'll let you know how to submit your book for review. We receive countless books per year for review and most are suitable for review. However, if your book includes questonable or perhaps illegal content, we may choose not to review it. In all cases, we reserve the right not to review any particular book due to a variety of reasons. However, we publish reviews of all books we select for review.
Do you think there’s a lot of ‘facile praise’ among many online review sites? What is your policy when it comes to negative reviews?
First and foremost, we want honest reviews. That means that while we are always pleased to find books that get an excellent review from us, we are aware that some books won't always hit that top mark. Therefore, while we will run a review about a book that may not be completely positive, we try to be tactful about our criticisms and comments about a book.  There's usually something constructive that can be said in the face of a not-so-good book. For instance, there's a tactful, yet honest way of mentioning that a book's characters could be fleshed out, and then offering suggestions for how the author might have done that more successfully.
There was a lot of controversy last year between print publication reviewers and online bloggers. In your opinion, what defines a ‘legitimate’ reviewer?
If you review a book, whether in print or online, you're 'legitimate.' I think it's a silly argument that is a waste of time and breath. Just review books and stop with the silly in-fighting over such things. We have better tasks to accomplish and can better use our energies.
What is your stand on paid reviews?
I believe if a publication pays for reviews, that's obviously a good thing. However, if you're asking if I think it's legitimate for authors or publishers to pay for people to review their books, I would have to say I believe that's unethical. If you pay someone to review a book and you're an author or a publisher, then it seems you're 'buying' a positive review.  In addition, I believe if you have a personal or professional 'axe to grind' against an author or publisher, I believe you should not review any books related to said author or publisher. I've seen reviewers and others try to inflict damage on an author's reputation and work by posting less-than-positive reviews that were based on a personal vendetta rather than an objective view of the book itself.
Do you think it’s okay for reviewers to resell the books or advance review copies they review?
If a reviewer has many books and needs, for whatever reason, to thin out his/her previously read and reviewed books, then I think donating them to the library would be the first recommended action. I don't believe advance review copies should be sold or donated under any circumstance, though.
What are the most common mistakes amateur reviewers make?
Going over or under the word count. This is because they either haven't been detailed enough with their review, or they haven't imparted the necessary information and criticism in a succint and cogent manner.
With so many major newspapers getting rid of their book review sections, how do you see the future of online review sites?
I believe online review sites will continue to grow, and if there's a shortage of reviews in print papers, that void will be filled by online reviews and reviewers.
Do you keep the author’s feelings in mind when you review?
Yes, in that comments or criticism about a book and its author should always be constructive, as well as honest. I believe a criticism or a comment should be constructive rather than just mean or intentionally nit-picky. Authors put their hearts and souls into their books.
Have you received aggressive responses from authors or publishers because of a negative review? If yes, how do you handle it?
Yes, on occasion. I respond to the author and/or publisher and explain that we strive for honest reviews of books, but realize that reviews ARE subjective. While one reader or reviewer may love a book, another one may not for various reasons. My stance is if you don't want an honest review of your book by a reviewer, then perhaps you shouldn't send us a copy for review. Also, keep in mind that one reviewer's take on a book does not necessarily reflect how *I* personally would view that book, nor is it the end-all, be-all review of the book.
What does your site offer readers?
We offer articles, interviews, columns and book reviews about all aspects of writing, authors and publishing. We also occasionally publish fiction and poetry, so there's a smorgabord of available 'treats' for people who love to read.
What promotional opportunities does your site offer authors?
Authors may send us press releases about their upcoming book releases and we'll run them in our e-zine for no charge. In addition, if an author is launching a promotional tour, we'll run announcements on that as well. Finally, we do offer paid text ads and banners for more lengthy and concentrated exposure.
What is the most rewarding aspect of being a reviewer? The most challenging?
The most rewarding is, of course, discovering new authors and books that you may not have otherwise discovered. The most challenging is balancing the commitment to both readers and authors/publishers when it comes to a fair and honest assessment of a book.
Is there anything else you would like to say about you or Scribe & Quill?
I'd also like to invite readers to also visit a couple of my other sites they may find of interest: Sun Signs for WritersInt'l Order of Horror Professionals site and my own website with links and information on my nonfiction and fiction books Thanks for giving me this opportunity!
Thank you, Bev!

Read Full Post »

Cheryl C. Malandrinos is the Editor of The Book Connection, a blog focusing on reviews, author interviews, and on hosting virtual book tour guests. She's also a reviewer for The Muse Book Reviews. Cheryl is currently looking for more reviewers to join her blog, especially for those who review ebooks. A virtual book tour coordinator for Pump Up Your Book Promotion, Cheryl sees a bright future for review bloggers and calls the Internet a 'huge promotion playground' for publicists and authors.

Thanks for this interview, Cheryl. How long have you been reviewing?

Hard to believe, but I’ve been reviewing books for two years now. I began by reviewing books for my own enjoyment at my Aspiring Author blog. Then I joined The Muse Book Reviews in 2007. In July of last year, I was interviewing so many authors and reviewing so many books that I began The Book Connection — which is where I post all my reviews now.

How many books do you review a month?

This all depends, because in addition to reviewing and interviewing authors at The Book Connection, I am also a virtual book tour coordinator for Pump Up Your Book Promotion. In addition, I’ll review just about anything and some months I have more children’s books—which can be read quicker than novels. So, it can range anywhere between two and ten books a month.

Are you currently recruiting more reviewers? If so, what are your guidelines?

This is something that I’ve considered for a while now, because I would like to grow the site and offer more to my readers. If anyone is interested in reviewing for The Book Connection, he or she can contact me at cg20pm00(at)gmail(dot)com. Place “The Book Connection” in the subject line and include a copy of a recent review, any publishing credits, what genres he/she is interested in reviewing, and if he/she accepts eBooks.

I encourage anyone who is interested in becoming a reviewer for The Book Connection to view the site and see what types of reviews are there. While I don’t expect everyone to write in a similar style, I expect a review to provide enough information to the reader to allow her to make an informed buying decision. A synopsis and three sentences doesn’t cut it.

How should an author contact you about a review request? Do you review e-books as well?

Authors may contact me at cg20pm00(at)gmail(dot)com with “Book Review Request” in the subject line if they are interested in having The Book Connection review their book. The only thing I don’t review is pornography. I don’t accept eBooks any longer. These books tend to get buried at the bottom of the “to be read” pile. After spending eight to ten hours a day on the PC, I don’t really want to subject my body to reading a 200+ page book on it. Besides, I read in the tub to relax before bedtime, and I haven’t found a PC or eReader that can work under those conditions. This could change, however, if additional reviewers come onboard.

How do you select the books you review? How do you determine which reviews to post on your site?

Everyone has their own personal tastes, but I consider each request by the synopsis sent to me. If the author’s website is listed in the email, I will go out to the site to find more information and an excerpt. I always post a review at my site—good or not so good. I have a fancy for Christian and inspirational fiction and non-fiction, memoirs, romance, children’s books, and historical fiction. I enjoy reading about the American Civil and Revolutionary wars, so books set during these time periods are ones I make a point to look for.

Do you think there’s a lot of ‘facile praise’ among many online review sites? What is your policy when it comes to negative reviews?

I believe this comes down to some readers being easier to please than others. I’ve gone to review sites and thought, “Does she like every book she reads?” But I’ve also gone to review sites and thought, “Does this person like anything he reads?” No book is going to be all good or all bad. There are going to be things you like and aspects you don’t really care for. A good reviewer can combine those things and provide a reader with a basis for a sound buying decision. As for negative reviews, I’ve had to write them; but once again no book is going to be filled with flaws and have not even one redeeming factor. I mention both in my reviews and I do so without being brutal. I’ve read some reviews and wondered if the reviewer is a sadist. Nothing is served by ripping an author’s book to shreds. Give readers some credit; they don’t need biting marks from a reviewer to learn the areas where the book failed to meet a person’s expectations.

There was a lot of controversy last year between print publication reviewers and online bloggers. In your opinion, what defines a ‘legitimate’ reviewer?

A reviewer is a reviewer. Now, some might carry more weight than others, but a review that highly recommends an author’s book, whether it comes from the New York Times or an online review site, is still a feather in an author’s cap.

What is your stand on paid reviews?

I don’t know how sites get away with this. There are so many book review sites out there that review books for free. Why would an author pay for one? Do the words, “I highly recommend this book,” sound better coming from a paid site than a free one? I don’t believe the reader cares one way or the other as long as she doesn’t end up wasting money on a book that isn’t what she expected.

Do you think it’s okay for reviewers to resell the books they review? What about Advance Review Copies?

This is basically getting paid for a review and I think I’ve made my thoughts clear on that one.

What are the most common mistakes amateur reviewers make?

Giving away too much of the story or not providing enough information for the reader to make a sound buying decision. I’ve actually almost done the first one myself. When I get excited over a book I’ve just read, I want to tell the world about it. But a few times I’ve looked over my review again and said, “You can’t tell them that!”

With so many major newspapers getting rid of their book review sections, how do you see the future of online review sites?

Since online review sites are a big part of the virtual book tour business, I say that these sites are going to become more and more important to publicists and authors in the future. Publicists and authors are really in tune with how to reach a wide audience, and therefore, the Internet has become a huge promotion playground for them.

Do you keep the author’s feelings in mind when you review?

Not really. I mean, I don’t write scathing reviews, but only because I don’t believe they serve a purpose; not because I’m concerned with hurting the author’s feelings.

What promotional opportunities does your site offer authors?

The Book Connection also interviews authors and occasionally has guest bloggers. When I have time, I provide updated news about some of my former clients from Pump Up Your Book Promotion.

What is the most rewarding aspect of being a reviewer?

I am given the chance to discover many talented writers who I never would have found otherwise. I look forward to following their careers.

Is there anything else you would like to say about you or The Book Connection?

The Book Connection has grown a lot in the past year. I’m very proud of what we’ve accomplished. I encourage readers and writers to check us out and see what we have to offer.

Thanks, Cheryl!

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I recently had the opportunity to read Mathias B. Freese’s The i Tetralogy. You 41rg7zxwvsl_sl500_aa240_may read my review of this book at Today.com.

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Started in 1998, MostlyFiction.com is an online review site with about 16 staff reviewers who review an average of 20 books a month. One thing that is of interest to authors, is that each review is linked to the author's website and includes the author's complete bibliograpy with links to Amazon. If you'd like to become a reviewer for MostlyFiction.com, please read the submission guidelines. In this interview, founder Judi Clark talks about the challenges of maintaining a review site and also discusses various aspects of reviewing, among other things.

Thanks for being my guest today, Judi. Please tell us about your book review site. How and when did it get started?

MostlyFiction.com was started about ten years ago. I decided to teach myself how to build web pages, so it started as an HTML exercise. I had just sent a friend an extensive list of recently read books each with a paragraph about the book. It seemed like a good thing to stick on a web page. As I made my way through the HTML exercises, I expanded the list into individual author pages (researching the authors and books turned out to be fun) and placed the pages on virtual bookshelves. Amazon.com had recently started the associates program and it seemed like a good fit; family and friends agreed it was convenient. Shortly after I signed up with Amazon.com (and got my letter from Jeff Bezos!) I decided to rename my site to MostlyFiction.com. I also found myself writing better reviews, so much so that I started to attract the attention of publicists, publishers and authors.

I was amazed that I was getting free books just because I decided to pursue this hobby. Of course, it opened up soul searching questions on whether or not I should accept the books (yes, but no promises) and if I was obligated to review if I did accept them (no). Thus, early on I had to establish answers to these questions. Meanwhile, the site did accomplish my main goal – I landed a new job, though the job itself had nothing to do with building websites. Just the fact that I had the site going proved something, I guess. It also helped to land subsequent jobs, of which web skills came in handy.

I did not bring in other reviewers until 2002. I was nervous because I wanted to keep the site’s voice (i.e. my voice), yet I wanted to cover more books. So I had to find a way to convey what I wanted others to write in a review. I suppose that at heart I am a control freak (no! all those who live and work with me are saying) and it was a bit hard opening up to other styles and thoughts. But I’m glad I tried it because I have made some great friends and have learned so much working with other people and accepting their review suggestions and styles. I’ve been lucky that most of our reviewers are better writers than I am. And for those that are not, I have learned that I have a passion for editing.

What makes MostlyFiction.com stand out among so many other online review sites?

Good question! Do we stand out? I think we have good reviewers and I feel that we try to go a little deeper with our reviews. I hope that we convey how much we love to read. There are many good review sites out there, which I am glad about because it says people are reading.

MostlyFiction.com is a bit unique in that we link to other sites from our review page. Every author page has a “Bookmarks” section in which I add links to interviews, reading guides and other people’s reviews. Most sites do not do this because they don’t want the traffic leaving their site. Of course, I don’t want people to leave MostlyFiction.com either but I like helping people learn more about the author or book. I also include a complete bibliography for each author (with links to amazon.com). So it is more than just reading a review, it is sharing an enthusiasm for the author. This is the format that I settled on when I started the site and I have maintained it ever since. I do it for selfish reasons – I love learning about the authors and reading other people’s reviews as much as our own. I just hope that MF visitors get as much out of these links as I do.

I should also mention that since all our reviewers are volunteers and I maintain the site in my spare time, you can trust that we are just making recommendations and have no hidden agendas. We love discovering new authors, we love reading new books by our favorite authors and we love writing our reviews. I hope that when people visit our site that this is what they take away – as well as few good reading suggestions.

What is the most challenging aspect of running a review site?

Mainly, having enough time to do everything that I want to do with it; settling for doing what I can.

A good challenge is matching books to reviewers. Unfortunately, I do not have the time to write reviews much anymore so this means when I read a book I want reviewed I search around to see who I think will do a good job with the book. Since reading and reviewing is subjective, I need to find someone who will pretty much see the book the same way I do. Usually, I am rewarded with a better review than I think I would have written. But, there are times when I pass the book on, read the submitted review and realize that the review hardly touches on any of the aspects that I thought they should and more over they say more negative than positive. Do I still post the review? Another side of the same problem is when a submitted review seems shallow – especially in comparison to other reviews out there. I’m torn between publishing the review (with some edits) to get the word out because I want to recommend the book or to not post it at all because the writing is not up to par with my expectations for the site.

Running this website is an interesting form of management because every contact is a virtual relationship. Communications is 100% email. Of course, it doesn’t have to be this way – I could talk to reviewers on the phone — but this style suits me and my limited time and has not failed me yet. The only downside is that every once and awhile a reviewer falls off the face of the virtual earth and I have no idea what happened to them. Fortunately this haunting event is rare. And I hope the explanation, if I ever learn it, is far more mundane than my imagination would have it.

How many books do you review a month?

I try to post at least twenty reviews a month, but when I fall short it has more to do with my “real job” work schedule than the number of reviews available to post. Fortunately, I never run out of reviews. Considering the number of books that are published in a month, to review 200 books a year is just a drop in the literary bucket. I try to mention new releases and forthcoming books for authors who are already featured on the website and for authors that are getting industry buzz, but again, this usually proves to be a more ambitious project than I have time for. My priority is to post book reviews, thus everything else takes a back seat. Despite never catching up, I would still take on more reviewers if there writing style warranted it.

How many staff reviewers do you have?

Currently, we have sixteen volunteer reviewers for MostlyFiction.com. Some frequently contribute, others are more sporadic. I manage the group very loosely because I understand that people get busy in their lives and can’t always commit to a deadline. But I do have some guidelines to help people stick to their commitments. Regardless, it is a big time commitment to say that you want to be a regular reviewer. If someone just wants free books, I recommend that they visit their local library.

From the start I have been amazed that people want to review for no pay, except maybe a free book. What motivates them? For some, it is a stepping stone to getting a “real” job writing. Others are already writing books and reviewing is both a way to study other people’s writing and to get their name out there. Many of the reviewers, especially the more prolific ones, are top Amazon.com reviewers. For them, MostlyFiction.com gives them an opportunity to write longer, more in depth reviews or if not that, at least a chance for the review to “stay.” I never take down a review/author page – and every reviewer has a list of the books that they have reviewed on the site if they need to send a link of their reviews. And finally, some people have discovered that reviewing does let them enjoy reading more.

Are you currently recruiting more reviewers? If so, what are your guidelines?

We always need more reviewers.

Those interested in reviewing are requested to complete a questionnaire that helps me learn about their reading interests. I also request that they submit an “audition” review. I prefer the “audition” review to be written for MostlyFiction.com rather than the “resumé” approach because I think every site has something different that they are looking for in a review. And I want to know if this reviewer gets what MostlyFiction.com is about.

How should an author contact you about a review request? Do you review e-books as well?

We have information on our website on how to submit requests for book reviews. But I don’t want to give false hope. I am overloaded with book requests and do not get back to the majority of people who are good enough to take the time to send an email with all the perquisite information. I feel bad about this but I just do not have enough reviewers to cover all the books that need to be reviewed. But anyone who wants to try me, then just follow the submission guidelines. I guess it is like the lottery because I do accept some of these books for review.

How do you select the books you review?

I let the reviewers select the books that they want to review. MostlyFiction.com exists to recommend books, therefore, it makes sense for the reviewers to want to read the books that they review. When I receive unsolicited books, I post the ones that I am interested in having reviewed on a “TBR” (to be reviewed) page. Reviewers can then claim any of these books. I also make suggestions to reviewers to help them discover some authors that they might not have read before. It is my job to know which books will appeal to which reviewers. I also request books from publishers on behalf of the reviewers. Many of the reviewers also visit their local library (some even work in libraries) and get their books this way and yes, we do buy books as well. I try to keep track of who is reviewing which book on the “TBR” page. Overall there are enough books that we do not have too many conflicts and the reviewers often work out conflicts amongst themselves. And when they can’t, I publish multiple reviews of the same book since it usually means the book is really worth recommending.

How do you determine which reviews to post on your site?

The books “laydown” or release date is the first criteria. We never publish ahead of the laydown date, but if a review is ready on the day it releases then I try to post it. Anyway, recently released books get priority. Though I do mix in the “older” books because I need to be fair to all reviewers and some prefer to review books that have been out for awhile. I do say that a good book doesn’t go out of style, so “older” books are just as welcome, especially if the review is well written. I stress a little bit making sure that I’m being fair to all reviewers. Since the books that we read range from prize winning literature to sleuths and mysteries, and even some nonfiction, I try to mix it up.

The final criteria is the time factor: If I don’t have much time, then I choose a review of a book that already has an author page so that I only have to refresh the bibliography and bookmark links when I post the review. If I have sufficient time, I will tackle one of the more prolific writers since I know the research will take longer. The well written review always has a better chance of getting published. Reviews that need a lot of editing sometimes never make it since by the time I can do the edit, the review is often no longer freshly written and it is too late to ask the reviewer to rewrite it.

Do you think there’s a lot of ‘facile praise’ among many online review sites? What is your policy when it comes to negative reviews?

I tell reviewers that they must finish a book to review it. If they don’t like a book, then let me know, but move on and find a book that they like. (Life is too short and we absolutely do not have time to read every book, so be choosy!) On the other hand, if they finish a book and by the last page decide that they do not like the book yet feel obligated to write a review to warn others away from it or to just want to air their disappointment, then I recommend that they tell the reader why they were compelled to finish the book (i.e. what is good about the book) and then say why the book disappointed.

When I am choosing the next review to post, I find that I tend to skip over the negative reviews that don’t meet this criteria and go for the ones in which the reviewer is recommending the book. However, when it is a well written review, then I do willingly post it, even if it is a negative review. If I read the book and agree with the reviewers comments, then I am more apt to post the negative review.

I basically believe that reading is subjective and one reviewer’s experience does not reflect all readers’ experience. I like a review that let’s me decide if I will like the book, whether I agree or disagree with the reviewer’s opinion of the book.

Do I think there is a lot of facile praise out there? Not among the bloggers and the ordinary people that like to write reviews. Because MostlyFiction.com links to other site reviews, I do read reviews from a lot of different sites. Certainly we all know that the Amazon.com system breeds “friends” of the authors – and sometimes I and the other reviewers are fooled. But, most people are sincere about their comments and reviews. Or maybe, I just have learned how to avoid the unhelpful reviews.

There was a lot of controversy last year between print publication reviewers and online bloggers. In your opinion, what defines a ‘legitimate’ reviewer?

Getting paid and having deadlines seems like criteria that makes one a “legitimate” reviewer. Or maybe that’s just a professional – which probably can be considered the same as legitimate. I love it when MostlyFiction.com is quoted in book blurbs and by other sites. It doesn’t happen often enough, but somehow that makes me feel our site is more legitimate. So by that criteria, I’d say popularity does lend itself to legitimacy as well. Although we have some very fine writing on MostlyFiction.com, I think most people would classify us as "talented amateurs."

What is your stand on paid reviews?

I assume by “paid reviews” you mean that the newspaper, website or blogsite is paying the writer for a review that they asked them to write and not the publisher paying for the review at the newspaper, website or blogsite. If so, then I think that people who get paid to write reviews have generally earned the right to be compensated. I like to read both professional and amateur reviews when I’m trying to decide on a book. I never think, “oh that person got paid so they must have had to say that.” A well written review will always tell you what works and does not work in a book. Even, if someone is writing a fluff review, the writer knows how to get a “didn’t like it” message out. Again, I think reading is subjective, so I don’t think it matters if someone is paid. A well written review is helpful, regardless.

I think it would be cool if I could pay our reviewers.

What about reviewers or review sites that charge authors and publishers for a review?

Interesting concept, but I would not do this; I think it would change MostlyFiction.com’s purpose. First, it seems that you would have to guarantee a large enough audience that you could ensure that the author or publisher was getting their money’s worth from this stealth form of advertising. The reviewers would then be required to write the review even if they hated the book, turning a passion into a job. And, finally you get into the ethical problem of whether or not to write an honest review. One of my first jobs out of college was to write “puff” articles on seacoast restaurants that bought advertising from the newspaper. As I say, there is always a way to write a review to get your honest opinion out (describing the tacky décor worked in one instance) but it still left me with a queasiness that eventually made me decide that the job wasn’t for me. So I think that ethically, I wouldn’t be up for charging – if I wanted to make more money I’d be more honest and sell ad space. Of course, this also makes me wonder whose reviews can be trusted if this is common practice. I feel so naïve!

Do you think it’s okay for reviewers to resell the books they review?

Yes. Though most people I know (including myself) like to hold onto the good books, so it is not really an issue. Selling books online doesn’t actually make money, but it does pay for shipping the book to the new owner. Also, selling books to brick and mortar bookstores is usually for credit and it often takes three to five books to get enough credit to buy one book (and even then you have to pay some cash). Selling books is usually more of a way to manage the book piles that are getting out of control in the house. For me, I have found that it is much easier to just gather up the books and drop them off at my local library, as I suspect is true for most people who are getting ten or more unsolicited books a week.

Advance review copies (ARCs) are not supposed to be sold and I do not know of any bookstores that will take these. It is a complete mystery to me as to how someone rids themselves of an ARC for money. That said, I have purchased ARCs in used bookstores. This fact only further exacerbates the mystery.

Anyway, my agreement with the reviewers is that when I send them a book it is theirs to keep as it is the only “pay” that I can give them. They can do anything that they want with it, which means they can add it to their bookshelf, donate it to the library, sell it or leave it for someone to find by chance at the Laundromat.

When everyone has an e-reader and ARCs and review copies are sent vie e-mail, then we will not have to worry about managing our paper books. I think this will be a sad day for me, but a happy day for my husband.

What are the most common mistakes amateur reviewers make?

Writing a book report instead of a book review is one thing. But there is also a lot of careless bad writing. Some people do not rewrite and reorganize. They seem to think that the way the words fall out of their heads is perfectly good. They just rattle off their thoughts.

Also, people need to think about what they read. Answer questions like, how does the title relate to the book, if there an unusual chapter structure, how does this affect the book. In other words, answer questions on “how” as well as “what” and “who” and “when.” I am always surprised when a reviewer does not mention a thing about “where” the story is located. If the location is not important, well that is something worth mentioning too but location is often intricately a part of a book. If the reviewer does not like a character, does that make the book good or bad? More readable or less readable? Do you need to relate to this character to be able to enjoy the book? If there is a structural issue, think about how it affects the book, assume that the author chose to do this on purpose, then consider the purpose and its affect on reading the book. No review should just jump to a conclusion that it is faulty without an exploration of the author’s motives. Does the chosen point of view help or hurt the story’s purpose? Usually exploring these deeper questions results in a better reading of the book and better review writing.

With so many major newspapers getting rid of their book review sections, how do you see the future of online review sites?

It’s an interesting question because I think you have to look at which books get reviewed by the newspapers and how these books are chosen. With approximately 10,000 novels published each year it is impossible to cover all new fiction no matter how many review outlets there are. So these newspaper reviews become legitimate filters that help direct our attention to a few worthy books – though I strongly suspect that the chosen books are first filtered by Publishers Weekly and Kirkus Reviews. So ultimately the question is, if newspapers stop being a cog in the publishing industry publicity, then what? And what do the paid book reviewers do for a living in the future?

No matter the intention, every book review is publicity. I don’t care what my reasons were for starting MostlyFiction.com, this site quickly became part of the PR cycle. It’s the nature of the beast. If all newspapers were to decide to drop book reviewing from their budgets, then some of the existing, or maybe some new websites, will rise up and fill the gap to filter and promote. The publishers need book reviews. Some sites are already more “legitimate” then others. These sites will probably have an even larger offering of advance review copies. Maybe we will recognize the new “legitimate” by the number of books they review at laydown date, as long as the reviews offer quality writing. It is hard for me to imagine that hasty quick Amazon.com blurb reviews will do the trick. Maybe, the sites that become “ new legitimate” will initially emulate the print world (or derive from the print world since most major newspapers print their books reviews online so why wouldn’t they continue doing this?). But with 175,000 new books published every year it is hard to imagine that this structure could last long. Moreover, as e-readers become more common and publishers will be able to push out review copies for less money, maybe the whole model will break apart.

If this happens, I just want it known that I will accept any unemployed book reviewers as volunteers at MostlyFiction.com….

Do you keep the author’s feelings in mind when you review?

I think about the fact that someone put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) and has written a complete book. Thus, they deserve respect because this is not something that I will ever accomplish. I prefer that our reviewers be the good reader and give the book a chance. However, if the book is just not enjoyable, then leave it be. Hopefully someone else will find more pleasure in the book and they can write a fair review.

Have you received aggressive responses from authors or publishers because of a negative review? If yes, how do you handle it?

Yes, back in 2003. One of our reviewers followed my guidelines and said what she liked about a certain book and what she did not like about it. In her opinion the author had done a “writerly trick” at the end of the book and just ruined it for her. Up to that point, she enjoyed it quite a bit, but she could not recommend the book because of this flaw. The book was published by a small independent and they needed our review to generate some publicity. Naturally, they were appalled when they saw what was posted. I had not read the book myself and felt bit helpless as I considered what to do — stick up for my reviewer or persuade her to soften her review. When I looked around at other reviews, we seemed to be the only site to pick up on this flaw. But then, there were only a few reviews and those sites were smaller than ours with more fluffy reviews. I had more discussion with the reviewer to just to make sure she wasn’t being a sloppy reader. Despite thinking she was probably right in her assessment, I still decided to pull the review and post just the excerpt instead. Without reading the book myself, I didn’t think I should keep the review posted. And since the book didn’t interest me enough to read it, I figured taking the review down was the moral answer to the dilemma.

Since the reviewer involved in this incident has just published her first book, I’m tempted to revisit this issue with her and see what she now thinks about how I handled this situation.

That incident helped me solidify my rules for bad reviews. And I haven’t had anything as strong or nasty as that incident since.

Though I did have one author who decided her self-published book was terrible and asked me to remove any mention of the book because she didn’t want to be associated with it. It was too bad because the book wasn’t all that bad.

I also had one author ask me to cut words out of a review that I had written because he felt that I had given away too much of the story. I did change it but I don’t think I made the right decision because I do not think that I gave away too much. But I was “young” then. Now I would simply tell him that no one remembers the review itself – only whether or not the book sounded interesting enough to read the book and I would have left my review alone.

Kooky reader comments is another thing …. Lots of these over the years usually threatening to boycott the site for one reason or the other.

What does your site offer readers?

Reading suggestions. Although we read a lot of new books – because that is fun – we also read not so recently published books. We hope that we are like a friend that recommends a good book. Some you’ll want to try. Others, you are glad that you know about them mainly because you know it is NOT one that you will want to read. It is hard to imagine that you would visit MostlyFiction.com and not find a good book to read.

What promotional opportunities does your site offer authors?

None outside of the obvious – that every review is publicity. If we really want to call attention to a book then we might do an interview or a book giveaway. For a few years, I went crazy with “book raffles;” so much so that it started to feel more like we were just pushing anything and everything. We tried to review the books that we gave away but it didn’t always work out. Worse, I’d realize that we were about to raffle a book that no one was that crazy about. So now I’m only doing book giveaways for books that we truly want to promote. Of course, since several of our former reviewers are publishing books this year – we will promote those! Nepotism reigns supreme in the publishing world.

What is the most rewarding aspect of being a reviewer?

Reviewing slows you down and lets you really, really read the book. When you know that you are going to write a review you do read more carefully because you do not want to make false statements in your review. Often, the process of writing a review lets you see the book more clearly and sometimes you like a book even more when you finish the review than when you started writing because reviewing makes you a better reader.

Another reward, is discovering new authors. I can not imagine my reading life without having become involved with reviewing and reviewers. I am a better person for this experience. Moreover, the fact that I get do research on the authors for the “bookmarks” section and the “bibliography” section has offered further enrichment. I really hope that this experience is passed onto all our site visitors.

Is there anything else you would like to say about you or MostlyFiction.com?

Simply put, we love to read and we love to tell you about good books. It would be great if more people were to discover MostlyFiction.com because I think our reviewers deserve a larger audience. I don’t expect us to ever become one of the big “legitimate” sites but we should be a place you come back to on a regular basis just to make sure you don’t miss any good reads.

Thank you for your thoughtful answers, Judi! I appreciate it!

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Hi all,

slipperyThe Slippery Art of Book Reviewing garners another rave review. This time from Lillie Ammann’s blog, A Writer’s Word, an Editor’s Eye.

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Dear Readers,

My co-author Anne K. Edwards and I recently had the pleasure of being interviewed by Norm Goldman of www.BookPleasures.com.

We talked about our book, The Slippery Art of Book Reviewing, and writing and reviewing.

You may read the interview here.

Mayra Calvani

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Who Killed Marcia Maynard? is a short, easily readable little mystery with a twist: written by a psychoanalyst, it is filled with clinical observations about the criminal mind.

A famous child psychologist called Marcia Maynard has been gruesomely killed in her Manhattan home, and psychoanalyst Mary Wells, together with her lover, Detective John Franklin, are called to the case to find the murderer.

Both Mary and Franklin are devastated by the news, as they knew the victim and had grown to love her. Soon, however, it becomes evident that many people have intensely mixed feelings about Maynard — a controverial person who was both loved and hated.

Who is the killer? And why are people associated with the victim also dead — some by suicide? As Mary and Franklin set out to interrogate the suspects, readers will become more and more perplexed about the outcome.

The novel is interesting in that the narrator stops at times to give insightful descriptions about the criminal mind, giving this author’s series an original twist. But the novel, though enjoyable, is not without its minor faults. The interrogations are interesting in the beginning but towards the end they begin to sound a bit repetitive, taking from the story some of the suspense.

At times, the descriptions of the wounded victim sound unnecessarily detailed and gruesome, as if the character is talking to the reader instead of to the other character. Also, the novel maintains the same pace thoroughout. I didn’t get the feeling of a climax, which was somewhat disappointing, considering this is a murder mystery.

The characters are symphathetic, though, and Mary and Franklin make an endearing, likable team of sleuths. This is a novel that will particularly appeal to fans of both mystery and criminal psychology.

See the cover and/or buy from Amazon.

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1. Please tell us about your book review site, Armchair Interviews. How and when did it get started?

My business partner and best friend, Connie Anderson and I reviewed books and interviewed authors on television. We had both retired, but mourned the loss of the richness that format brought to our lives. Connie attended a conference in Los Angles where she birthed the idea of reviewing books and interviewing authors and posting them on the internet. I picked her up from the airport, she shared the idea with me and I assumed she wanted me to make this journey with her (actually, I said she wasn’t going to do it without me).

January 2008 will be Armchair Interviews third anniversary. Wow! I hadn’t realized that! And in 2006 and 2007 we were named by Writers Digest as one of the Best 101 Websites for Writers.

2. What makes Armchair Interviews stand out among so many other online review sites?

Our knowledge of books and our excitement and passion for the idea of Armchair Interviews was the beginning of creating a great site. We placed ourselves in the able hands of Paul Larson of Creative Arc in Minneapolis and he patiently worked with Connie and me to design an attractive, user friendly site. We then began to add other things like audio and written interviews, contests, a reader’s page, an author’s page, etc. for our visitors.

But it’s the reviewers. They’re passionate about the written word. They’re good writers, responsible people and oh so much fun. They work hard. They work with us, not for us and that’s the difference I think. They are Armchair Interviews. And we’ve gained new friends from around the United States and the world through Armchair Interviews. They simply are the best. Check out our site and then other sites and you’ll see what I mean.

3. What is the most challenging aspect of running a review site?

Time. It’s primarily two people (Connie and I) running Armchair Interviews with some help from Paul Larsen (our go-to guy for web help) and Jeff Foster who does some marketing for us. Connie has a business (that pays the bills) and must give that time. I am a writer, I travel a great deal with my husband, we live in MN and AZ (which is a time and logistic challenge) and we have numerous children and grandchildren I want to spend time with. Connie and I always want to do more and wonder where we’ll get the time.

But money is another important aspect. It takes money to create a good site and money to maintain and improve a site like ours. Authors often don’t like paying for ads, interviews, etc. The problem is, if the site isn’t paying for itself, it goes away. They don’t understand the number of people we reach and what it costs to maintain a site like ours. Some authors are appalled that sites like ours would charge to promote their titles. Hey, think New York Times, People, USA Today… We may be small, but like them, we have to have revenue to survive. I can never understand why they don’t blink an eye at the idea of a magazine, television or newspaper ad, but believe that the internet should be free. Note: We don’t charge to review a title.

4. How many books do you review a month?

I believe our largest month was 239 books. We average about 200 a month.

5. How many staff reviewers do you have?

We currently have 87 (not including Connie and I). It’s always fluid. People are with us for a time and then circumstances change in their lives and they leave. Several have left and then returned. Other people then apply and come on board to fill the need. We have about 12 reviewers that have been with us since we first took applications.

6. Are you currently recruiting more reviewers? If so, what are your guidelines?

We’re always looking for more reviewers. It seems that when people leave, other people step up and apply. We like to stay around 85-90 reviewers. It’s a manageable number for me. There has been one period of time in the last three years that we put new reviewers on hold. If someone is interested in reviewing contact Andrea@armchairinterviews.com and I will send our Reviewer FAQ. All they have to do is follow the directions and we can get them started.

7. How should an author contact you about a review request? Do you review e-books as well?

An author should go to www.armchairinterviews.com and click on our FAQ for review submissions and follow the directions. You’d be amazed how many people don’t think the rules apply to them. Often though, they read? the directions and send me an email and a link to their web site so I can gather the necessary information myself. That will not get an author a review. Time is short; we have about 400 submissions a month and can’t fill them all. It’s easier to go with the people who follow the directions. So read the FAQ and follow the directions! How to get that review or interview is another Q & A interview and one every author should hear if they want review coverage. But that’s for another time.

E-books: Alas, no. We don’t review them. The primary reason is that we all read so much and it’s painful to sit at a computer and read, sometimes for hours. My personal thoughts are: I’d love to help out the author and just have them send me an e-book (faster, cheaper) but I really can’t tolerate the sitting and I want to hold the book in my hand. I doubt that this ‘old’ woman will ever change in that respect.

8. Do you think there’s a lot of ‘facile praise’ among many online review sites? What is your policy when it comes to negative reviews?

Criticism is okay. And we criticize books. But we will never, ever trash a book or an author. We want to celebrate authors and their work. If a book (and unfortunately it’s almost always self-published) is so awful (poorly written, edited, etc.) we won’t review it at all and inform the author of the issues. But we’d like authors to remember: A review is one person’s opinion.

9. There was a lot of controversy this year between print publication reviewers and online bloggers. What defines a ‘legitimate’ reviewer?

I’m not sure I can give you a definitive answer. It’s like art; I may not know what good art is, but I’ll tell you when I see some. Peruse the sites. What do they look like? How many titles have they reviewed? Do they offer anything besides reviews (nice for building traffic and authors want traffic)? If you contact them do they respond in a timely manner and are they professional in their responses? Ask them how long they’ve been in business and what their stats are. Note: Armchair Interviews is on track to have 2 million views this year.

But the bottom line is: Print publication continues to reduce their coverage of books. Internet is the coming wave and is even now, becoming the place to go for learning about new books. If I had a small promotion budget, I know I’d get more bang for my buck with Armchair Interviews than with a magazine or newspaper. Why? Because other than USA Today, most newspapers are local or regional. And I could never afford USA Today. Magazines? Well most are out of the price range also. Television and Radio are usually local (budget restraints). That leaves the internet and it is huge!

10. With so many major newspapers getting rid of their book review sections, how do you see the future of online review sites?

Hmmmm. I think I ended up answering this question when I answered the previous question. But simply put: It is the place to be seen and it will only become bigger.

11. What promotional opportunities does your site offer authors?

We offer ads, audio author interviews and written Q&A interviews. They are really reasonable in cost, given our audience. We can provide an author with tailored packages to fit their needs and pocketbook. Connie and I are very conscious to remember that most authors do not have a huge promotional budgets. Contact us for promotional information. We have authors, publishing houses and publicists that regularly work with us to promote their authors.

Oh, and sometimes, for fun and to help, we’ll do a give away for an author we feel strongly about. That’s a freebie in conjunction with the author or publishing house.

12. I understand you’re also a writer. Would you like to tell out readers about your work?

I’ve written several books that are ‘under the bed’ and will stay there. I also wrote a humorous mystery and it is currently under consideration at three small houses. I love the mystery genre, but really adore Young Adult. Another friend, author Kathleen Baldwin (she writes romantic comedies for a large house) and I are putting the finishing touches on a Young Adult fantasy (the first in a series). Our advance readers, which include a Broadway actor, children’s librarians, and other published authors, have given it two thumbs up. And while I love my mystery and heroine Penelope Santucci, I am passionate about Glitter and Gillyflowers: Memoirs of a Teenage Faerie Godmother. I see this book doing very well.

13. Is there anything else you would like to say about you or Armchair Interviews?

We’d invite you to check us out. We’ve got almost 3000 reviews, numerous audio author interviews (they change all the time), contests and a lot of scrumptious information. And the newest thing is: We have a member’s only site. For a very small amount of money monthly, we have a place where members can go for ‘stuff’ that’s not on the regular site

Thank you, Andrea!

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Interviews | Diplomacy | Southeast Asia

Jonathan Stromseth on Southeast Asia’s Great Power Dynamics

“The Biden administration needs to improve America’s economic game in Southeast Asia in coordination with allies and partners.”

Jonathan Stromseth on Southeast Asia’s Great Power Dynamics

A container terminal in Singapore, one of the world’s busiest transshipment hubs.

Credit: Flickr/William Cho

Over the past decade, Southeast Asia has found itself the subject of an increasingly heated strategic competition between the United States and China, two powers with which the nations of the region retain deep security and economic ties. A new edited volume, “Rivalry and Response: Assessing Great Power Dynamics in Southeast Asia,” examines various aspects of this burgeoning Sino-American competition, from the region’s response to China’s Belt and Road Initiative to the implications of its recent authoritarian turn.

In this interview, the book’s editor Jonathan Stromseth, Lee Kuan Yew Chair in Southeast Asian Studies at the Brookings Institution in Washington, D.C., talks with The Diplomat about what Southeast Asian nations want from the United States, the role of the Quad in Southeast Asia, and how the Biden administration should best engage the region.

In this time of increasing strategic rivalry between China and the United States, the mantra that one often hears from Southeast Asian states is that they don’t want to be forced to make a choice between China and the United States. Do you agree with this framing, and what are the implications for U.S. policy toward the region?

There is a diversity of responses among Southeast Asian countries both to China’s rise and to the intensification of great power rivalry in the region, as individual states seek to manage relations with Beijing and Washington in different ways – depending on geography, economic opportunity, threat perceptions, historical experience, and other factors. In general, however, ASEAN governments prefer to have constructive relations with both the United States and China. While they appreciate the U.S. contribution to regional security, they also recognize that China is currently the largest growth engine of the world economy, accounting for nearly 30 percent of global growth. ASEAN policymakers will be clear-eyed about these economic realities as they look to the future, estimate China’s economic footprint, and calculate their likely interdependencies and opportunities with Beijing.

In this context, the U.S. should stand up to China when it violates international law in the South China Sea or threatens democracy in Hong Kong and elsewhere. At the same time, Washington should engage ASEAN countries on their own terms based on a positive economic and political agenda, rather than approaching them simply as derivative of U.S. competition with Beijing. That is the most effective way for the U.S. to compete with China in the region, while remaining a Pacific power that is respected and influential in Southeast Asia and beyond.

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What advice would you give the new administration on how best to engage Southeast Asian nations over the next four years?

The Biden administration needs to improve America’s economic game in Southeast Asia in coordination with allies and partners. As U.S.-China rivalry has escalated, Beijing is increasingly achieving its strategic goals in the region through economic statecraft, as illustrated by its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and proactive role in forming the new Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), the mega trade deal that is expected to accelerate ASEAN’s economic integration with China. The COVID-19 pandemic has only increased the policy challenges for Washington as China has recovered faster from the outbreak, reinforcing its already advantaged economic position.

In this connection, one of the key findings of “Rivalry and Response” is that U.S. policy has become too concentrated on defense and security, to the detriment of diplomacy and development, allowing China to fill the soft power vacuum and capture the narrative through BRI. Security concerns still matter, to be sure, but Southeast Asian countries tend to prioritize economic development because it is the immediate pain point for most of them.

Although returning to the TPP family would be politically difficult given American skepticism of globalization and free trade deals, the option should be explored by examining the costs and benefits for American workers and identifying possible areas of renegotiation – including on labor and environmental issues. The Biden administration should also accelerate infrastructure coordination by operationalizing existing platforms, such as the 2019 Japan-U.S. Mekong Power Partnership and the 2018 Trilateral Partnership for Infrastructure Investment in the Indo-Pacific with Japan and Australia. Few concrete projects have resulted from these initiatives thus far. The administration should make them a reality and accelerate investments and loans, especially in the Mekong subregion where Chinese economic influence is growing so fast. The objective shouldn’t be to confront BRI and create a bifurcated region, but to develop compelling alternatives and then reengage China from a position of strength.

How might the U.S. engage or cooperate with China in the region?

The Biden administration has framed its approach to China as competitive when it should be, collaborative when it can be, and adversarial when it must be. Areas for possible collaboration include global governance challenges where the U.S. and China have overlapping interests, like climate change, as witnessed in climate envoy John Kerry’s recent visit to Shanghai, when Washington and Beijing agreed to fight climate change “with the seriousness and urgency that it demands.” Moving forward, the administration should consider engaging Beijing to help combat climate change in Southeast Asia, a maritime region that is particularly vulnerable to global warming. For instance, it could work with Beijing to establish a multi-donor trust fund at the World Bank, to which third countries could apply for climate support, or simply encourage co-financing from regional development banks to address this issue. Such initiatives would send a reassuring signal that U.S.-China cooperation is possible, even in a region widely seen as the epicenter of their geopolitical rivalry.

Evan Feigenbaum of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace argued recently that the U.S. has historically funneled its Asia policy through its China policy, but that it needs to get Asia right before it can get China right. Do you agree? And if so, how do you think it might best do this?

I agree that the best China policy is a strong Asia policy. The Biden administration is taking steps in this direction by reengaging allies, especially in Northeast Asia, and by working with Japan, Australia, and India to expand the Quad beyond security to include a new vaccine partnership as well as working groups on climate change and emerging technologies. In this new framing, the Quad is not just a grouping of democracies with shared concerns about China, but a potential source of public goods for Southeast Asia and the broader Indo-Pacific. The hitch is that most ASEAN nations remain suspicious of the Quad, seeing it as a challenge to ASEAN Centrality and possibly a destabilizing counterweight to China in the region. Still, there appears to be a growing recognition that the Quad is here to stay, and the new focus on vaccines and climate is generally welcomed. ASEAN would likely be more welcoming if the Quad did more in the economic realm, especially on infrastructure. A critical question is whether the Quad and ASEAN can cooperate in the provision of these public goods.

Meanwhile, Chinese diplomacy has gone into hyperdrive to counter the Quad. China’s top diplomats have met their ASEAN counterparts at least 21 times since August 2020, holding more face-to-face meetings at this level than all four Quad countries combined. China is also “socializing” with ASEAN countries to an increasing degree, sending a continuous flow of missions and groups to the region. The Chinese are in listening mode compared to five years ago, as discussed in “Rivalry and Response,” even contracting local think tanks to conduct studies on BRI implementation experiences, warts and all.

At the same time, China faces its own limitations and trip wires in the region – including growing distrust of its strategic intentions according to the latest ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute survey of Southeast Asian policy elites. China’s impact on domestic governance trends can be overstated as well. Beijing may be reinforcing authoritarian trends by exporting surveillance technology or exemplifying a political model that appeals to authoritarian leaders, but it is important to weigh these factors against deeply rooted historical drivers in the countries themselves. We can see this in the recent military coup in Myanmar, where the political role of the Burmese military has been institutionalized over many decades and probably exceeds that of the Indonesian military under Suharto. The military also has longstanding suspicions about Chinese influence in the country. It is critical to keep these internal drivers in mind when considering the impact of U.S.-China rivalry on domestic politics in Southeast Asia, or the likely effects of U.S. foreign policy initiatives more specifically.

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Apart from multilateral initiatives like the Quad, how do you see bilateral ties evolving between the U.S. and countries in the region?

Compared to alliance relations with Thailand and the Philippines, there is more upside for the U.S. in deepening ties with emerging partners like Vietnam. U.S. relations with Vietnam have expanded considerably in recent years owing to growing trade ties, strong people-to-people relations, and a common concern over China’s actions in the South China Sea and its increasing economic and political influence in mainland Southeast Asia. Highlights include the establishment of a “comprehensive partnership” in 2013 and the dramatic visit of a U.S. aircraft carrier to Danang in 2018. Last year, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also announced plans to open a regional office in Hanoi to increase public health engagement in Southeast Asia. It may soon be time to take the next step, elevating U.S.-Vietnam relations to a formal strategic partnership.

Jonathan Stromseth is a senior fellow and Lee Kuan Yew Chair at the Brookings Institution. He previously served on the secretary of state’s policy planning staff, focusing on China and Southeast Asia, and was The Asia Foundation’s country representative in Beijing and Hanoi. For more information on his new edited book, “Rivalry and Response: Assessing Great Power Dynamics in Southeast Asia,” see here.


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When you organize an event or a promotion you always think about the gift with the brand logo for your customers. Choosing is not that easy: they must be useful, original but not too eccentric, linked to the event’s topic or to the Company you are promoting. But today it’s not enough. To convey an excellent opinion of your brand you must show sensitivity to the most discussed issues of the moment, first of all the protection of the environment that surrounds us. Plastic and disposable items, for example, could hurt the sensitivity of those who receive your gift.

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Part of what I like about my job is that I get to experiment with different products. I can play around with designs, flavors, and fragrances to make something new. Some of these experiments are eventually added to our store along with our standard products, while some are complete failures and end up in the trash!

Sometimes a friend or customer will make a special request for a fragrance or flavor, and I’ll make it just for them. I’ve made Singapore Sling lip balm, as well as Midori sour, Captain & Coke, and even Long Island iced tea balms. I like trying out recipes for balms even when I don’t have special requests, and now I have a new shop to share the most successful “experiments”!

Our Facebook Shop will offer exclusives: flavors (and eventually fragrances) that aren’t available anywhere else. (Right now we have Lollipop, June Bug, Pomegranate Martini, and Bellini balms available.) We’ll also be adding some of our other popular products from our website. You can shop there even if you aren’t a fan of our page, but fans get 10% off! Another plus: shipping for small packages is via First class mail, so orders of a lip balm or two don’t have a huge shipping expense.

What do you think? Do you like the idea of an exclusive shop? What flavors or fragrances would YOU request? Please share your thoughts!