For those who don’t know me that well, I write book reviews. I sometimes do it for WROTE Podcast, and also just because I love giving my opinion, whether I’ve paid coin for the book or been asked to review by the author or publisher.If you look through the books I’ve reviewed in the past on Goodreads and Amazon, you will see a raft of 4 and 5 star reviews. Maybe there will be a few 3 stars, and rarely, a 1 star.
This isn’t because I want to be nice to everybody. I’m not like an enthusiastic puppy, grateful to eat any old shit that’s lying around. It’s because I genuinely stand by that rating, and I ALWAYS try to make the review honest and fair.
It’s rare that a book comes along without any redeeming features whatsoever. Even if it’s just the cover, there is something positive a reviewer can say about it. You can leave a critical review without harsh words and unkindness. I know some people would disagree, but I’m all about spreading positivity. There’s enough negativity in this world without me adding to it. This is especially true in the community I write for, which is close-knit and frankly, needs all the support it can get.
If I do give a book a 1 star, it will be for a good reason; usually it’s because it panders to racist, homophobic or sexist stereotypes. Having said that, I don’t automatically slate authors who have pissed me off for whatever reason, especially if I haven’t read the book! Or use a review as a weapon to prove a point. No revenge 1 stars either. Nope. No way. I know revenge 1-starring books is A Thing, and I understand why people can be driven to do it, but I’ve never done it and never will.
The reviews I share on here are for books I’ve liked or adored for whatever reason, whether it be needing a cuddle, escapism, sexy times or lush romance. In other words, this site is my attempt to spread some love.
As ever, comments are welcome.
Lady J x
Jayne Lockwood Books 
Leave a Reply