How I Choose Books to Review
Last updated: April 2026
One of the questions I'm asked most often is how I decide which books to review. With so many wonderful books and limited reading time, I've developed a thoughtful process to ensure each book I feature is a strong fit-for both myself and my readers.
I don't just choose good books-I choose the right books for this space.
What Makes a Book a Good Fit
Every book I accept is evaluated through a reader-first lens. I look for stories that align with the tone of the blog and resonate with the readers who visit here.
- Genre alignment: I focus on cozy mysteries, historical fiction, contemporary fiction, and select fantasy and middle grade titles.
- Tone and style: I gravitate toward thoughtful, character-driven stories with a strong emotional or narrative core.
- Reader connection: I consider whether the book will genuinely appeal to my audience-not just whether it's well-written.
What I Look for Before Accepting a Book
- A clear, compelling blurb that reflects the heart of the story
- Professional presentation (cover, formatting, and overall polish)
- Accurate genre positioning
- Transparency around content or trigger considerations
These elements help me quickly determine whether a book is the right fit for my reading queue.
Why Some Books Aren't the Right Fit
Not every book will be a match for this space-and that's okay.
- The genre may fall outside my current focus
- The tone may not align with my readership
- The timing may not work with my review schedule
- I may not feel I'm the right reader for the story
Choosing carefully allows me to give each accepted book the attention and thoughtful review it deserves.
A Reader-First Approach
My reviews are always guided by my experience as a reader. I don't approach books as a critic looking for flaws-I approach them as someone looking to connect with the story.
This means that when I feature a book, it's because I believe it will resonate with the readers who trust my recommendations.
You can also read more about how I rate books and how my weighted CAWPILE system supports my reviews.
Before You Submit Your Book
If you're considering submitting your book for review, I recommend reviewing my full guidelines first:
That page outlines everything you need to include and helps ensure your request receives the best possible consideration.
Working Together
I value thoughtful, respectful collaborations with authors and publishers. When a book is a strong match, it creates a better experience for everyone-the author, the reader, and the review itself.
If you feel your book aligns with what I feature here, I'd love to hear from you.