Review Policy

Revised July 2022

Since launching this blog March 2013, some things have changed/expanded and some things haven’t.

The byline changed to emphasize a greater focus on books and genres that will enlighten and lift us up through prose, plot, characters, setting, messaging.

Every book reviewed still has at its foundation prose I’m passionate about. Prose that opens doors inviting us in. The definition of what’s enchanted has expanded beyond the literal meaning of the word. Authentic dialogue, for instance, may need to use profanity. Still, finding creative ways to express anger, oppression, injustices is preferred. Prose that’s overly graphic, gratuitous, and perceived as offensive doesn’t fit this blog. 

Genres Reviewed: Fiction that’s literary, contemporary, historical, and environmentally-driven. Artistic and other creative themes. Atmospheric settings. Open to legal thrillers that challenge us to think and escape; cozy British mysteries, especially in the style of the “golden age” of the 20s and 30s; plots with magical realism to make the impossible possible; romance novels that make us feel good. Inspirational stories that transport us to experiences, ideas, and places we’re curious about, struggle with, or haven’t had or been to before offering options, perspectives. Memoirs of courage and resilience that offer hope. Non-fiction that’s riveting, insightful, provocative, and beautifully written.  

Looking For: More multicultural and multiethnic novels set in America and from around the world, including translated books.   

Genres Not Reviewed: Fantasy, science fiction, hard-core crime, poetry, YA, children’s.

You will not see any ads on this blog. It’s a labor of love. So, this isn’t the place for negative reviews. No promises are made for “an honest review” in exchange for a review copy. To genuinely sing a book’s praise is the mission.   

Almost all books reviewed these days are sent by publishers (mainstream, indie, university, small presses) and publicity agencies directly, or won on a giveaway as advanced reader copies (ARCs). Rarely is a book reviewed digitally, though exceptions are considered.  

Timing a review close to publication date is ideal. With so many captivating and beautiful rendered books published that’s often not possible. My commitment is to read the books kindly sent to me, but not necessarily as soon as received or in the order received. Reading mood does matter. The goal is three to four books reviewed per month; sometimes more than one at a time if a common theme or one book informs the other.

Spreading the word about beautifully written books is the purpose of this blog. It was when first launched and it continues to grow stronger thanks to the richness, beauty, and increasingly diverse books being published.