Book Review Policy & Guidelines

Greetings, 

As I mentioned earlier this year I have some new things instore for this blog and reviewing books has slowly been becoming a regular thing on The Gathering Room. With my current review load, I felt that is was time to lay out a few guidelines for book reviews moving forward. I want this place to be a vessel for building new authors up because that was something I have not had in my career as a writer. So here it is...

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Book Review Policy & Guidelines

Why hello!!!!

I am so glad you found your way to my review guidelines. Reviewing books was not something I ever thought I would be doing, but when my followers asked, I responded.

As an award-winning multi genre author with a heart for helping readers discover high-quality, faith-based stories, I understand the weight of writing your story. It is common to feel the pressure that comes with releasing a book and waiting for reviews so that your book can find its audience easier. I was there once, and still struggle to get those coveted first reviews. 

That is why I started reviewing the books I read. While, at first, my goal with any review was to find some way to give any book I review a 5 star review, I have learned the value of a helpful critique. So that is what I offer. Not an easy A, so to speak, but a genuinely honest review of the books I read. 

 
My goal is to build a positive community for authors and readers alike. To ensure I provide the best value while managing my schedule, I will be following the guidelines below:

1. What I Review

While my primary expertise is in Biblical Fiction and Ancient World Historical Fiction, I am also open to:

• Christian Fantasy & Allegory: Stories that weave faith into imaginative worlds.
• Specialized Non-Fiction: Occasionally, I review devotionals or practical guides, particularly those focusing on ADHD, Neurodiversity, and Mental Health from a Christian perspective.

2. My "Quality Over Speed" Timeline

As a reader with ADHD and dyslexia, I process books deeply rather than quickly. I do not "speed read" or skim; I live in the world of the book right along with your characters.

• Review Window: Please allow 2 to 4 months from the time I receive a book to the time a review is posted.
• Selectivity: Because my reading time is limited, I am highly selective about the projects I accept to ensure I can give each one the focus it deserves.

3. The "Honest Recommendation" Rating System

I want my platform to be a place of discovery and encouragement. To maintain my reputation as a trusted reviewer while remaining an author-ally, I use a 3.5-star minimum policy:

• Public Reviews: I only post public reviews (on my blog, Goodreads, Bookbub, or Amazon) for books I can honestly recommend with a rating of 3.5 stars or higher.
• Private Feedback: If I finish a book and find that I cannot give it at least 3.5 stars, I will not post a public rating. Instead, I will reach out to the author with private, constructive feedback to help them in their journey.
• Right to Review: If a book is not a good fit for me or if I am unable to finish it, I reserve the right to decline a review entirely.

4. How to Pitch

If you have a book you think fits my niche, please contact me with the following by using the request form here:

• Book Title & Genre
• A short blurb
• The release date and page count
• Why you think it’s a good fit for my specific "deep-dive" style

5. Do I charge for my reviews?

Well no, that would defeat the purpose of my ministry as a faith-based book reviewer. However, I can only handle so many books at one time.

So, if you need something reviewed faster than my 2-4 month window. Mention that in the form above. We will work though it and come to an agreement together. If we can't figure it out, I will do my best to help you find someone that can. No catches on my end. 

Thanks for your time, and I'll see you in your pages this time!

M.J.E.