This is an old revision of the document!
Rules on Reviewing
First off, you should know I only have a limited amount of time, so I can't review a hundred novels at once. Sorry, but that's basic physics for you. If I agree to review your novel, you may have to wait a while for me to get around to it, and then I'll need time to read it.
Rules
- If it's traditionally published, I'll probably buy it (if I'm not broke at the time)
- If it is self-published, or through a publisher that uses print-on-demand, you'll have to send it to me. Sorry, but I'm reluctant to risk my money on something that doesn't look like it's gone through the filters of an agent, publisher and editor.
- I rarely review collections or anthologies
- You must request a review - they don't happen automagically (although sometime, magic does happen)
- If I think my comments would harm your career, I won't publish them. If you have a thick skin, you can get a personal copy.
- Don't get pushy if you begin to sense inertia. If I agreed to do it, I'll get around to it as soon as I can. I'll email you to let you know when it's done.
To request a review, simply fill out the comment form below. They all get moderated anyway, so only I will see it. Don't forget to leave a real email address or it'll be difficult to talk to you.
* I don't store email addresses on this site, or, in fact, any publicly accessible server, unless you have specifically subscribed to a discussion in order to get automatic notifications when that discussion is updated. Addresses are obfuscated for security.
Discussion
As for the 'rough edges', I expect them to be there - it's par for the course with the self-publishing industry. The real question is: "are there so many problems it gets in the way of the story?" Paying attention to the art and the craft is important - character and story arcs, structure (story and scene), plot-holes and inconsistencies, cause and effect trajectories, holistic world-building etc. Problems in your story drag the reader out of their immersion, but in a great story well told, they'll forgive the odd hiccup and dive right back in.
Of course, it's a financial risk to you because I might not think your story is worth recommending. If I do, you definitely get something out of it. You might want to check out my article on self-publishing traps first (I've added a link to it in the text on this page).