You might notice there are a lot of reviews on my blog. You might also wonder why an author would review other people’s work – I mean, why promote other people on your blog instead of promoting your own writing? Seems rather contradictory, doesn’t it? Here’s the reason:
Reading books is like doing research. The more books you read, the more you’re exposed to great lines, clever plots, and interesting conversations. It all helps build up a repertoire of skills to use while I’m writing.
Well, okay, all that and I like reading stories! Especially great stories, and even more so when the main characters are part of my queer family.
And I can only write so many stories. If I find a tale I think you will like, I’m gonna tell you all about it.
It also makes me happy to see my fellow authors having success with their books. It’s not a competition. We can all raise each other up.
So, where do all these books come from? Some I buy. Some I get from other author friends. Some are sent to me in exchange for an honest review. And I’ll always be honest about the story – how I see it – and how the work makes me feel as I’m reading it.
I will never give away plot points – I may allude to them – but I don’t kiss and tell. If I’m posting a review, it’s because I want you all to read the book too.
What’s my rating system?
5/5 = AWESOMENESS – If I give a book 5/5 stars its because the story transported me, took me away, made me forget about life, and entertained the hell out of me. I find books that fall into this category are often ones I read lightning fast – because they are so good you just can’t wait to get to the end.
4/5 = A GREAT READ – Stories I rate 4/5 were fantastic tales that should be shared. These are books that I know will get love from the audience they were intended for. The only reason I give out 4/5 is because there was an element in the story that ripped me out, or an inconsistency somewhere – perhaps a few bumpy chapters. In the end, it doesn’t matter because these are minor tidbits. These books should be read.
3/5 = IT WAS GOOD – I struggle to rate books – I really do. Especially when I get to this score. Generally I find that books getting 3/5 have regular inconsistencies, or perhaps would have been even better with another round of editing. These are still good reads though! I think the other thing we have to keep in mind is that not every person is going to like every story. That’s okay. There will always be someone out there who loves a book more than I do, for completely different reasons that were lost on me.
Anything less than 3/5 I will not post. I could rate them, but for me, those books didn’t resonate. I’d like to think I’m very generous in my ratings – and I’m really easy to entertain. If you make me forget about the craziness that is life with your story then we’ll be just fine. If that doesn’t happen, then this book wasn’t intended for me.
How do you rate sex in your reviews? Now, what about those sexy hawt books? We can’t forget about those! Some of the best ‘take me away’ stories have some sexy fun times. Here’s how I define that…
5/5 = Scorching! This might be too hot for some to handle, but I loved it.
4/5 = Sultry. There’s enough steam to cook dinner.
3/5 = Is it hot in here? We might not have got all the way, but you had my undivided attention.
2/5 = Oh damn, she flirty. Off page references that leave you wanting more.
1/5 = Damn, you cute. Compliments will get you everywhere.
N/A = this isn’t that kind of story. And let’s face it, not all demon hunters have time for anything other than…well, hunting!
That’s about it. You can find my reviews here on the blog, on my Goodreads profile, and occasionally I’ll post them on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. If you didn’t know – I’m Canadian – which means I can only post reviews on Amazon.ca – so, I will post there too – but sometimes folks miss them.
Got a book you are beyond desperate to get me to review? No guarantees I’ll be able to pick it up right away, but if you’re in no hurry, drop me a line at J.P.Jackson.LGBTQAuthor@gmail.com.
Appearances
From time to time, you might have the chance to spot me in real life, or perhaps virtually. I’ll list out those special moments here.
Read and Write with Pride – 2018, 2019, 2023 – part of Edmonton’s Pride Week Celebrations at Audrey’s Books
WROTE Podcast – Episode 316 (April 16, 2021), Episode 169 (June 22, 2018), Episode 119 (July 07, 2017), Season 7, and Episode 30 (July 29, 2022).
DIY Podcast – October 20, 2020
Books that Burn Podcast – March 26, 2021
IQARUS Book Convention (Website) (YouTube) – May 08, 2021
Interview with Scott Alexander Hess – August 05, 2022
Interview with Paul Semel – August 11, 2022
J.P. Jackson 