Tag Archives: reader interview

Shaz Stars interviews Associate Reader Sarah Taylor

In the hot seat today I would like to welcome:

SARAH TAYLOR

Hello Sarah, thank you for letting us have a peek behind the scenes into your reading habits.  Your sun sign is CANCER.

  • Cancerians are home-loving individuals.  They appreciate the nest-like quality of a secure base.  Do you have a particular place in your home that you read/blog, a place where you feel most relaxed and comfortable?
 I love to blog from my study, which is very cosy and usually the cat and my three dogs will follow me in there too and all sleep under the desk. I do prefer reading on the sofa or in bed!

  

  • Being over-imaginative can lead a Cancerian to fantasise about life.  When you are reading, do you find it easy to imagine you are on that journey with the characters?  Do you see images in your mind?
 I do have a very active imagination and as a result I often get so drawn into a book that I feel that I know the characters and I am part of the story too. I often feel disappointed by films because the characters look different to how I imagined them whilst reading a book.

  • A native born under the sign of Cancer is said to be loyal.  Does your loyalty also extend to authors that you read?  If you read a novel by an author that usually inspires you but in this particular story doesn’t, would you still read the next novel by the author? 
I am very loyal and do think that this applies to the authors I read as well. I always read novels by my favourite authors even if one I have read in the past is not a favourite book for me. As a result, I have a huge collection of books at home!
  

  • Cancerians have a retentive memory, particularly if it is prompted by strong emotions.  Is there a novel that has provoked a strong reaction in you or a novel that you remember in particular detail because of the emotional aspect? 
I found this question quite difficult as I wasn’t sure which novel to mention. Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier is one of my favourite novels and I remember it in vivid detail as it was one of the books I studied at A-level. When I think of that book I instantly think of my last year at school and final exams before university.

  

  • It is said that Cancerians are untidy.  Is there an order to the books in your bookshelf or are they put there haphazardly.  Do you have piles of books laying around or are they neatly stored? 
Untidyness is probably one of my greatest flaws! I have one very tidy bookcase and that is full of books that I have reviewed. Unfortunately, my other bookcases (and there are alot!) are much more haphazard and I also having two overflowing to be read piles; one on my desk and one on my bedside table!

  

  • Love and romance matter more than anything to Cancerians.  Does this extend to your choice of genre?  Are you most comfortable reading novels that include love and romance? 
Yes, I think this is true about love and romance being one of my favourite genres. I also love historical fiction, especially if it includes romance. As an example, one of my favourite series’ of books is The Cousins’ War trilogy by Phillippa Gregory. I really am not so keen on crime or horror books.

  

  • Cancerians are intrigued by the past.  They love to collect antiques, old treasures and ancient relics.  Do you have any book collections on your shelf?  What is the oldest book in your possession?
Having studied History and Italian as my degree I am very intrigued by the past. I have quite a lot of old books that I have collected from various places. I think the oldest is probably an old collection of Jane Austen novels which belonged to the family.

  

  • Being good at making money, Cancerians are also good at managing money.  Do you put aside a specific amount of money for purchasing books?  Do you have a wishlist you make your book purchases from or are you a ‘spontaneous’ buyer? 
This question made me laugh as I am very good at spending money, unfortunately! I don’t really put aside a set amount for books, but I do like to buy a couple of books from Hatchards every month as I collect signed first editions. I also buy lots of my books after reading reviews, both online and in the review section of the weekend paper. I recently bought a signed copy of Santa Montefiore’s latest novel ‘The House by the Sea’.

Thank you for being so honest Sarah.

Sarah is an Associate Reader for Loveahappyending which is an interactive reader/author website.  Visit Loveahappyending to find out more about this brilliant project and how you, as a reader, can support them. 

Weblinks:

www.todayimreading.blogspot.com
todayimreading@hotmail.co.uk
Twitter: @TodayImReading
Facebook: Today I’m Reading

Shaz Stars interviews Associate Reader Laura Seaton

In the hot seat today I would like to welcome:

LAURA SEATON

Hello Laura, thank you for letting us have a peek behind the scenes into your reading habits.  Your sun sign is ARIES.

  • Aries is the first sign of the zodiac and therefore represents new beginnings and openness to new ideas.  Does this energy affect your choice of genres?  Do you prefer to read a range of genres that offers you new vistas?
  
I definitely prefer things that are not real, or at least not part of my reality. It helps me escape and enjoy new experiences and think about things that I have not done or would not be able to do because they are pure fantasy.

  • Energetic and enthusiastic are two words that suit an Arian well.  A downside of all that energy is restlessness, the need to be constantly moving.  Does this affect the times when you sit down to read?  Is there at time when you are calmer?  Do you read as you are doing other things? (ie walking around)  Does this affect your concentration?
Having a lot of energy and being restless is certainly part of my life but I think that is why I read so much. I can’t sit and watch a mindless programme on television, I would much rather read a book. That way even if my body is not active my mind is. When I am reading a good book it is very hard for me to put it down until I have finished. I have been known to cook, eat, walk and even bath my children with my nose in a book.
  

  • Arians are direct, frank and candid.  The phrase ‘what you see is what you get’ could be applied to a native with the sun in Aries.  Do you think these energies come across in the reviews you write?
I always speak and write exactly what I think. To be honest I believe that Arians make the best reviewers as they are like this naturally. I don’t ever think if I say this so and so might get upset. You asked for my opinion and I have given it. If you don’t like it ask someone else.
  

  • Organisation is a strong trait in Arians.  Are you organised in choosing which book to read next and when you will blog your review?
I read books because the blurb on the back appeals to me, giving me some idea of the story but making me intrigued. There has to be an air of mystery to it. If it doesn’t interest me it will go to the bottom of the pile. My blogs and reviews are usually written as I am experiencing something, this way you get a fair opinion. The last chapter might be great but the rest of it rubbish or visa versa. I know last impressions count but I think you should always write your thoughts down as you get them. I would usually publish a review within a day of finishing reading so I cant go back and change it.
  

  • While Arians welcome challenges, if things aren’t moving fast enough for them they move on.  If you are reading a book that is slow-going, do you give up and move onto another book?  Do you skip or scan pages to get to the end?  Have you ever read the ending of a book first?
  
I never read the ending of a book first, in fact that is a lie I specifically remember reading the last chapter of the half blood prince first. It completely ruined the book for me. I have been known to skim read when a book is going slowly. The best example of this is War and Peace, I tended to skim the peace bits to get the gist of what was happening. I always finish a book though and would never put one down half way through, or at least I haven’t yet.

  • Those born with an Aries sun are the leaders of the zodiac.  They like to be first and expect others to listen to them.  Do you network with other bloggers?  Do you share what has worked for you?  Do you listen to what has worked for others and then implement it for yourself?
  
I always like to be the first to try something or to have other people listen to me. I give advice a lot about all manner of things and if someone asks a question I don’t know the answer to I find the answer and then respond. I am on twitter @tiredmummyoftwo and I blog. I am fairly new at both of these but already I have a huge following which is really nice. I take the time to speak to people and comment on other people blogs. I also do “share the blog love Saturdays” in which I recognise and promote 10 blog posts from that week. It lets people know I am not just out there for me but that I also want to hear what they have to say too. I take peoples advice but I don’t generally ask for it which I think is a failing of most Arians.

Thank you for sharing with us Laura.

Laura is an Associate Reader for Loveahappyending which is an interactive reader/author website.  Visit Loveahappyending to find out more about this brilliant project and how you, as a reader, can support them. 


Weblinks:
  
http://tired-mummy.blogspot.com

twitter @tiredmummyoftwo




Shaz Stars interviews Associate Reader Rea Sinfield

In the hot seat today I would like to welcome:

REA SINFIELD

Hello Rea, thank you for letting us have a peek behind thescenes.  Your sun sign is LIBRA.

  • Libran’s love of pleasure may lead them into extravagance.  Do you consider reading a pleasure and would you say it follows through that you are extravagant in spending to satisfy your pleasure of reading?

Reading is my one big pleasure in life. It is what allows me to switch off from day to day life. My problem is how quickly I now read. On average I read 2-3 books a week, which when my blog reviews were just starting was over £20.00 a week at least in books. I think the day that I knew I was a little too extravagant was when I came home with my latest book purchases one of which was Christina Jones Moonshine, when I arrived home the postman had been and when I opened my package there sat another shiny new copy of Moonshine! I completely forgot I had pre-ordered it!!

  • Libra is the only sign of the zodiac that is represented by an inanimate object (the scales).  The Libran objective is to be fair and balanced in everything.  Do you use these skills when writing a review?

Wow yes I am very balanced when trying to write a review. I always try and support a negative comment about a book with a positive one. I found it hard at first when reviewing a book which an author had sent me to review to be honest about my opinion of the book as this author has put so much time into their book and has also gone to the trouble of sending me a copy. I felt rude if I didn’t enjoy the book to list the negative comments, now I know I need to be honest in my reviews as quite often our reviews influence our followers decision to buy a book, so I am honest and if I didn’t enjoy a book I will always say why and try and add any good points in the book to balance the review.

  • Planning ahead is a Libran trait.  Do you write your reviews straight after reading a novel or write later taking cues from notes?  Do you have a system for planning your reading and reviewing

I do plan ahead with my To Be Read Pile. I read them in order they are sent to me to be fair. When it comes to reviewing my books as soon as I finish a book I am so eager to start the next book but that is my one rule to myself I have to write my review before I start a new book. I write my review of a book as soon as I have finished so that everything is fresh in my mind.

  

  • Striving to bond with others and listening to others (but also being listened to in return) is something a Libran thrives on.  How active are you in the book blogger community?  Do you bond with others in this community?  What do you gain from being active?

I am fairly new to the blogging world. I set up the blog in May. Over this time I feel it has been a bumpy ride. I needed help and advice and I found this hard to get and often told by well known book review sites that my reviews were not up to standard. After taking a knock I then got up and tried again and that is where I found the people who I now call friends who have really helped me with my blogging journey. Jules, from Dooyoo who introduced me to the world of blogging, Samanatha from chick-lit plus who has given me so much great advice and opportunities and also the whole team at Love A Happy Ending who have taken me under their wing and helped me to promote my blog and have introduced me to some wonderful new authors. I feel like since I have started my Facebook group and my twitter page this has allowed me to become more active in the community, which allows me to help promote my blog and help with the promotion of similar blogs too.

  

  • Venus, the goddess of love, rules Libra.  Librans appreciate anything that is beautiful.  Have you ever brought a book because of the beauty of the cover – even if the blurb doesn’t grab you?

 Ok my hands are up!! That saying “Do not judge a book by its cover” ….. That doesn’t work with me! I am the same with books as I am with clothes. I walk in the shop look for the bright and pretty eye catching book and I am sold! I often pick up the book without even reading the synopsis and it comes home with me! My typical covers I look for are the style of Lindsey Kelk, Paige Toon and Carole Matthews. Now that I get books sent to me to review I often look at the cover when they arrive and I think this is not going to be my style of book but when I start reading I love the books I am sure over the years I have missed out on many great books because I didn’t like the look of the cover.

  
  

  • It is said that one of the faults of a Libran is their need for admiration.  They like to be the centre of attention.  Blogging book reviews certainly brings attention from the author, publisher and other readers and can be seen as a positive use of this trait.  Please would you share with us why you started your book blog and what do you feel are the benefits?

The reason I started reading and reviewing in the first place was unfortunately my small group of friends do not read. When I feel very passionate about something I need to shout about it! There was no one to listen to and I think my clients were getting ear-ache each time they came in listening about my latest read! I then decided to write reviews of my books on Dooyoo. It was there that my reviews were noticed by Jules who then messaged me to ask if I had a blog she could follow and that is where the idea to start my own blog came. I couldn’t believe within the first month of my blog I had two requests to review books and one author had messaged me to thank me for my review to me it was like talking to the rich and famous! The benefits having a blog has brought me are never ending. It has given me the chance to talk about something I love, it has broadened my genre range in reading, and it has given me the chance to meet so many people who share the same interest as me. 

  

  • Finally, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Philip Pullman and John Le Carre are well known Libran writers.  Please share with us who your favourite authors are and why.

This is possibly the hardest question I have had to answer and I think over the years my answer to this question changes. I love Christina Jones and this is one author I always say does not get the attention her books deserve. Christina writes romantic fiction but with a twist, and it is this twists that makes her stand out to me. I love each and every one of her books, she has such a way of writing which makes you feel as if you are really there in these quirky little villages where her novels are based! Carole Matthews is another favourite of mine. I call Carole’s books my safe books – you always know what you are going to get but you always feel pleasantly surprised. I love chocolate as much as I love books and Carole managed to bring my two favourites together in her Chocolate lovers books! I think my newest member of my favourite authors club is Nicola May. I was so shocked when I read this book I thought it was better than many of the current chart books out at the moment. Working it Out made me laugh out loud and it is very rare that a book can do this to me!

Mytop 10 authors are.
1.     Christian Jones
2.     Carole Matthews
3.     Paige Toon
4.     Lindsey Kelk
5.     Cathy Woodman
6.     Katie Fforde
7.     Jane Costello
8.     Nicola May
9.     Lucy Dillon
10.  Miranda Dickinson
Thank you for your honesty Rea.

Rea is an Associate Reader for Loveahappyending which is an interactive reader/author website.  Visit Loveahappyending to find out more about this brilliant project and how you, as a reader, can support them. 
 About Rea: 
Hello I am Rea I am 25 and I have a reading addiction!! I have run my own Beauty Business for 3 years and have been in the Beauty business for 9 years. I love my job but it is slowly being taken over by my passion for chocolate and reading!
I started reading after a long stay in hospital 6 years ago and it has carried on since. I am a Kindle convert. After a year of complaining that I would never give in as I love the feel of the book in my hands I am now a proud owner of a kindle and I LOVE IT!!
You can find me :-
Blog:- http://reabookreview.blogspot.com
Twitter:- bookreviewbyrea

Facebook:- http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rea-Book-reviews/208142895873594





Shaz Stars interviews Associate Reader Dorothy Bush

In the hot seat today I would like to welcome:
DOROTHY BUSH
Hello Dorothy, thank you for letting us have a peek behindthe scenes into your reading habits. Your sun sign is AQUARIUS.
 
 

Aquarians are one of the most loyal signs of the zodiac.  Does this trait extend to the authors you choose to read? Do you read all the novels a favourite author has written? 

This trait most definitely transfers to my reading style. When I find an author whose writing I enjoy I read everything they have, and I usually buy what they have and keep collections. I watch for their new work and look for their past work. Sometimes this means perusing used book stores to find back copies, but then that too is an enjoyable past-time for you never know what other treasure you might find. And now we have Amazon and E-Bay.
 

Sometimes, Aquarians need to retire from the world and become temporary loners.  Reading suits this trait!  When you feel the need to take time out of the world, is reading something you would choose to do to aid in recharging your batteries?

You hit the nail on the head with this observation Shaz! I cycle through periods of socializing and withdrawal. I socialize to the point that I become desperate for some alone time and then work to simplify my life and hibernate. I read though, all the time. It recharges my batteries; it relaxes me; it completes me. Rarely a day goes by that I don’t have a book on the go.

Being fiercely independent and refusing to follow the crowd, Aquarians walk to the beat of their own drums.  Do you ever read a novel because it is popular (even if it is not something you wouldn’t normally read) or do you choose to read whatever suits you at the time?

I have read novels because they are popular but usually because a friend has read it and wants to discuss it; not particularly because of the rave reviews. I probably shouldn’t admit to this, but I haven’t read one of the Harry Potter novels, nor have I watched the movies. They are on my ‘to read’ list but not a priority. I do, however, constantly look for new authors. There are thousands of great writers out there who just have not had the luck to be published traditionally, and when a debut novel comes out I’m usually quick to grab it.

Aquarians are known for not making friends easily due to their own personal high ideals.  Does this trait affect how you interact with the blogging/social networking community?

Yes, I was kind of afraid this was a trait. I get annoyed with frippery, foolishness, shallow people and ideas and this lack of tolerance shows in my friend’s list. It’s short. I find most people would rather ignore negative things that go on and just get through their days…I want to speak up if things aren’t right, I want to correct things. I like to have fun though and enjoy sharing bits of that on my blog and on Facebook. I guess it’s kind of one-sided, though, I post and maybe someone else reads it. 

Although intellectual, those born under the sun sign of Aquarius are known to lack tact and diplomacy (they don’t see why they should hide the truth).  If you have read something that didn’t work for you, are you able to use tact and diplomacy when writing your book reviews?

  
Ah, yes, I’ve shocked many a person with my honesty and lack of tact. I’ve learned though over the years, to be more diplomatic, and if I truly can’t be diplomatic I don’t write a review. I have never given a bad review; I would never intentionally hurt someone by being negative about their work. A crushing review can totally kill a writer’s motivation.
 

Aquarians dislike emotion and intimacy.  Does this extend to the genres you choose to read?

You are good, Shaz. I didn’t know this was a trait. I just thought I had issues..lol My favourite genres are crime, mystery, thrillers and any of the cross-overs. I don’t mind a little romance or sex thrown into the mix, that’s part of life after all, but I tend to read those portions more for the technical composition than for the vicarious thrill. I like histories and westerns (if they are realistic); I like things that challenge what we know, like espionage and paranormal. Romance, strictly romance novels, fall rather short for me.

It is said that Aquarians like living within their means despite the many temptations that are all around them.  Do you see purchasing a book as a luxury?  Do you use a library?  Do you have any criteria for purchasing books? 

Yes, Aquarians are a frugal lot. I KNOW purchasing books is a luxury and I do it anyway for authors I follow. I carry my list around and constantly look for books for my collections, but I’ll also purchase spontaneously because of the back-cover. I have found some fabulous writers that way. I am grateful I have the means to do that on occasion. I also use libraries, download novels in the public domain like the Gutenberg Project, borrow and trade. I’m quite shameless in my quest for more books.
Thank you very much for the interview Shaz. You are quite intuitive and it’s been a pleasure speaking with you.

Thank YOU for sharing with us Dorothy.




Dorothy is an Associate Reader for Loveahappyending which is an interactive reader/author website.  Visit Loveahappyending to find out more about this brilliant project and how you, as a reader, can support them. 




About Dorothy:

Dorothy Bush lives in Eastern Ontario, Canada and works in the field of literacy and basic skills. An avid reader she also writes short stories, freelance articles and aspires to be a novelist. A member of a writing group in her home area she looks after the newsletter and online presence which can be found here: http://brockvillewrites.wordpress.com/
She is also a member of the Harlequin Readers Panel and has recently discovered www.loveahappyending where she is an associate reader. You can follow her own adventures in life on her blog at www.dorothybush.com, or onTwitter @Bikerhen



Shaz Stars interviews Associate Reader Nikki Bywater

In the hot seat today I would like to welcome:
 NIKKI BYWATER
Hello Nikki, thank you for letting us have a peek behind the scenes into your reading habits.  Your sun sign is PISCES.

  • Pisceans are said to be sensitive to the feelings of others and respond with tact and diplomacy.  Are these traits you apply when you are writing your reviews?

Yes I do apply all these traits when I am writing reviews. I find that because I am sensitive that this almost always helps me to find a connection with the characters in a book. I can see things from all points of view and I am very diplomatic when it comes to writing a review about the book. I think we can take something and learn something new from every book that we read so I work with this in mind. I also want to bring out the best of the book in my review for the author.

  • It is said that Pisces dislike confinement.  Does this affect where you read?

I find I can read  anywhere where there is peace and quiet and no distractions. I do like to read in the garden on hot summer days. But I am more than happy to read indoors.  I like to light a few candles and to create a relaxed and calm atmosphere and to sit in a nice comfy chair preferably by a window though if indoors.

  • The Pisces sun person has a label of being dreamy and otherworldly.  Reading is the perfect place to allow yourself to be dreamy!  Do you find it hard to readjust to reality after escaping in a novel?

I really can get involved in a novel when I am reading.  Reading is the perfect place for me to escape and be dreamy. I find it so relaxing. I have a little habit that I can not leave a book between chapters! I find it harder to step back into reality if I have not read up to the end of the chapter. I am always daydreaming about what is going to happen next. But if I have read to the end of the chapter usually I can get straight back into reality. When I have finished a book it depends on how emotional the book made me feel if it is a very emotional story then I can daydream about it for hours!

 

  • Pisceans are receptive to new ideas and are versatile.  Does this have an affect on the genres you choose to read?

I like to read a whole variety of books.  I don’t have a favourite choice.  Although I have read a lot of books on the paranormal, I would say I have read just as much of any other type of books too.  I will read anything.  It is not that often I will start reading a book and think I can’t read this.  Some books take me longer to get into than others but generally I am receptive to new ideas.




  •  Although Pisceans are more intuitive than rational, they do have sharp memories and remember even the minutest of details.  Do you write your reviews from memory or do you take notes as you read to help you remember for writing your review at a later date?
I do a little bit of both. I do like to take notesout of respect for the author, that I am giving the best review of their bookand not leaving anything out. I always find certain things will stand out inthe book that I know I will remember and put in the review. Usually I do find Ican remember everything I have read in the book, so my notes are used to doublecheck I have not made any mistakes.

  • Pisceans are very creative (love using their imaginations!).  Have you or do you intend to design any features for your blog?

This is all new to me. My Blog is brand new and I have never done one before. So I am learning the more I use it. I do plan to make it more bright and colourful with more drawings and pictures. I like Angels and dolphins so I am hoping that I can put them somewhere in the design in time. I will most likely have to ask for my children’s help with this!

  • It is said that for Pisces, decision-making is tough and change their minds often.  If you have a pile of books waiting to be read, how do you choose which one to read next?  Do you leave a book unfinished and move on to another one?

I am terrible at making a decision!  So I find the best way to handle this by having some organisation and a plan of action!  I try and think ahead about what would be for the best, so when it came to decide to which book to read next, I always read the book that I have brought or received first!  So the books I have not read are in an orderly pile with any new ones I get going to the bottom of the pile.  So now I don’t have to make a decision, I just always take a book from the top of the pile!

Thank you for sharing with us Nikki.



Nikki is an Associate Reader for Loveahappyending which is an interactive reader/author website.  Visit Loveahappyending to find out more about this brilliant project and how you, as a reader, can support them. 

About Nikki:
Born in Batley West Yorkshire, then lived in the lovely West Ayton in North Yorkshire,then lived in Derby, spent time in America (NewYork). Settled in 1998 in Cheshire with my husband Andrew and children Liam and Chloe. I have worked in television as a TV extra/jobbing actress I like just to have small roles because I love to spend time with my family. My father is the S.A.G.B medium Terry Tasker. So my interest for the paranormal comes from this. I do not have the ability to be a medium myself (Yet) so I call myself more of a paranormal investigator/Researcher. I have also been on the radio with my paranormal work. I also love to read not just books on the paranormal; I will read almost any book “Never judge a book by its cover” I am very happy to have become an associate reader with loveahappyending.com. You will find all the books I have read and reviewed on my blog. If you would like me to read and review your book please contact me.
http://nikkis-books4u.blogspot.com
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Nikki-Bywater-Paranormal-Investigator/187907631233832
http://facebook.com/nikki.bywater
https://twitter.com/#!/NikkiiNola

Shaz Stars interviews Associate Reader Lindsay Gentles

In the hot seat today I would like to welcome:
LINDSAY GENTLES

 

Hello Lindsay, thank you for letting us have a peek behind the scenes into your reading habits. Your sun sign is GEMINI (Lindsay was born on the cusp and her sun is less than a degree into the sign of Gemini – there are 30 degrees to each sign)

  • Gemini’s are adaptable and versatile.  Does this trait extend to the genres you choose to read?  Do you read all genres?
Hit the nail on the head!!  I feel that I am very open when I choose books.  To me, there is no genre that I haven’t read and no genre that I won’t read again. While I do have my favourites, keeping my options open is the best.

  • It is said that those born with the sun sign of Gemini take up new activities enthusiastically but lack application, constantly needing new interests.  In a positive sense, reading could quite easily fulfil this need with all the different genres available.  On a negative note however, this could also translate to becoming bored with the material you are reading.  How does needing new interests translate for you when reading?
It takes a lot for me to mark a book as DNF (did not finish)… a lot!  If an author can take the time to write the book, the least I can do is give it a fair chance and finish it.  In order to avoid becoming bored with reading my strategy is to constantly switch genres… rarely do I read books from the same genre, back-to-back… unless it’s chick-lit books (my secret obsession).

  • Geminis find it hard to have an opinion about a certain topic because they are very good at seeing and understanding both sides of any situation.  Does this make it difficult for you when you are writing a book review?  Are you able to be specific in the opinions that you want to get across to other readers?
Just ask my husband about this… he will say I am VERY opinionated.  It’s true though; I always see both sides of the story and generally do have a hard time taking sides with my characters.  Just as I am starting to take one side, the other character comes into focus and I get all confused again.  By the end of the book, I have avery concrete opinion on the book and am able to write my reviews.

  • Gemini’s are said to be skilled in the arts of language – in speech and writing.  Is this skill something you apply to writing your reviews?
One of my close friends once said that she would see my words in print one day.  While my blog, Turning the Pages, is still in the early stages, I am happy that people are starting to notice it.  I love to talk, I love my sarcastic personality and feel that I work hard to put myreviews in the words that my readers will relate to.  I am so passionate about reading that words just flow when I amwriting about ‘my’ books.

  • Dependability is not usually a trait a trait possessed by most Geminis.  Do you have deadlines for reviews?  How do you make sure you meet them?
Again, because Turning the Pages is so new, I am reviewing every book I read as I read them. Moving forward, as it picks up steam; I will have books that I review and books that I read for fun. Deadlines will be set and deadlines will be met… to that I am committed! 

  • The most common trait of a Gemini is their outgoing personality.  Do you network with other bloggers/reviewers?  Have you used this trait to build relationships with publishers and authors?
Absolutely! Each and every day, I follow over 50 blogs and over 600 Twitter contacts.  I am a very ‘Type-A’personality and have no issues with e-mailing an author or a publisher to ask for a book to review… the worst that could happen is a ‘no’. 
My biggest tip for networking is to set yourself up with a Twitter account that includes a link to your blog, follow all the bookreaders/lovers that you can and visit their blogs as often as possible.  Comments are ALWAYS appreciated and bloggers will start to visit you once they realize who you are and that you are avid about what you do!

  • Anne Frank (the diarist) and Ian Flemming (creator of James Bond) are both born with a Gemini Sun.  Please would you share with us your favourite authors.
WOW, how to narrow down my favourites?!?!  On any given day, this list can vary so don’t quote me on it.  Today, my favourite authors are Jodi Picoult, Jennifer Weiner, Rick Mofina, SophieKinsella, Barbara Delinsky, Mary Higgins Clark, Joy Fielding… ack, okay, I will stop now as I could go on and on and on…
Thank you for your honest Lindsay.

Linday is an Associate Reader for Loveahappyending which is an interactive reader/author website.  Visit Loveahappyending to find out more about this brilliant project and how you, as a reader, can support them.

About Lindsay:

First and foremost, I am a wife and a mother but following closely behind that, I am an AVID reader!  There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t find my nose in a book of some sort; whether it be a fictional novel that I borrowed from the library, a non-fiction book about someone’s life story or simply, a fun book about cartoon rabbits that help my son fall asleep… a book is a book and I enjoy them all!
From as far back as I can remember, I have enjoyed all things book.  Spending all day reading was something that happened often in my life.  Maybe it had something to do with moving alot, I was able to lose myself in someone else’s life, someone else’s problems,while leaving mine behind.  The ‘friends’ in the books I read as a child had simple lives and simple problems and were always there for me…ALWAYS!!  The first series and really, the one that opened up the passion, was The Baby-Sitter’s Club by Ann M. Martin (131books in the series not including the Super Specials!).  These books soon gave way to another series, Sweet Valley Twins by Francine Pascal (118books in the series!).  My final ‘series’ as a tween was the Fear Streetbooks by R. L. Stine (55books in the series).

As I matured, I turned to my mother for recommendations.  She introduced me to Belva Plain and from there, my love of mysteries took off… and really, it hasn’t stopped since.  With JoyFielding, MaryHiggins Clark, RickMofina, SandraBrown and JodiPicoult all still actively writing, I never seem to run out of a good old ‘Who Done It’ book.  Beyond that, I have developed a thirst for every kind of book.  While my heart still draws back to mysteries, I enjoy other genres such as chick-lit, crime, romance and young adult (everyone loves a good vampire book, right?!?)

So, as you can see, I love to read and will forever be looking for my next book! :)


Shaz Stars interviews Associate Reader Louise Graham

In the hot seat today I would like to welcome:

LOUISE GRAHAM

Hello Louise, thank you for letting us have a peek behind the scenes into your reading habits.  Your sun sign is LEO.

  • A typical Leo loves glamorous locations and adventure.  Is this a genre that you like to have on your bookshelf?

I must admit I love the glamour of a posh location or reading about how the other half live in novels. I have even called our new kitten Taittinger as it sounded delightfully posh!! Always been a big fan of Jackie Collins as you don’t get more glitz and glamour than her books and lately a lady called Sasha Wagstaff. Saying that however, I also enjoy other genres and don’t have a favourite genre of books. Where ever the mood takes me at the time!

  • Leonine people set themselves high standards.  Does this become a problem for you when you’re writing your book reviews?  Do you find yourself editing what you’ve written because you think it could be better (when in fact others would see it as adequate).

I write my reviews then read them to someone for confirmation that they are ok and then constantly try to improve what I have put! Sometimes I am tweaking for the sake of tweaking!

  • In romance, Leo’s have high aspirations and are idealistic.  If you read the romance genre, do the characters live up to your romantic expectations?  What makes a character believable for you?

I love a happy ending and as single person it gives me hope! Must admit, I would love to read a romantic novel that doesn’t always end that way and that is more true to life but I’m guessing the happy ending is what we expect! A character is believable if things happen in realistic times or I feel I can relate to them in some way. Or they have to be so fabulously rich and everything is so extreme… just the way I imagine the Posh people live!!

  • Those ruled by the Sun are able to see the bigger picture.  Do you predict what may happen as you’re reading, taking your cues from inference?  Do you see a twist in the plot coming?  Have you started to read anything that is predictable and not finished the story?

Often in a romantic novel it is obvious that the main characters will end up together so that is a given. However, how they come together and all the twists and turns are the exciting parts. Do I see plots coming – only sometimes. A great book, not so much! Very few books do I give up on.

  • Leo’s are generous and warm-hearted.  How do you feel when you have to write a review for a book that just wasn’t for you?  Do you focus on the positives but also include what you didn’t like and why?  Or do you decide not to write a review for that particular book.  What is your approach?

Totally focus on the positives. What good would writing a shocking review to a book do for anyone. I caveat what I write by explaining while it wasn’t my sort of book for whatever the reason is but would find things that were good about it. I hate to offend people and would never do that.

  • A typical Leo will dislike safety.  Do you take risks in choosing genres to read or do you stick to one genre?  What makes you pick up a book and decide to read it?

I read whatever I see on the shelf that takes my fancy. I like to go from a heavy storyline book to a light a breezy book. I also love people recommending books to me of authors I have never tried before. I’ll try anything!

Thank you Louise for your honest answers!

ABOUT LOUISE

I’m a 30 something single mother to my gorgeous 9 year old daughter Jessica, living in South Wales. I work fulltime in the IT industry, which takes me up and down the M4 for a few days most weeks. I find reading to be a great release from day to day woes. You can’t beat the feeling of a great book that makes you want to stay up into the early hours because you are just so excited to see what happens next! Often find I get rather sad when I reach the end of a good book as I miss the characters!!

 Recently been invited to become an Associated Reader for http://www.loveahappyending.com and I am so proud to be part of this group. I have very recently set up a blog to review books that I have read and you can find me on www.lougrahamiiblog.wordpress.com or on twitter @lougrahamii

 

 


Shaz’ Stars interviews Associate Reader Kay Wilkinson

In the hot seat today I would like to welcome:



KAY WILKINSON

  
Hello Kay, thank you for letting us have a peek behind thescenes into your reading habits.  Yoursun sign is ARIES.
  1. Aries is the first sign of the zodiac and therefore represents new beginnings and openness to new ideas.  Does this energy affect your choice of genres?  Do you prefer to read a range of genres that offers you new vistas? 

I don’t know if this as an openness to new ideas, but Ihave always had a bit of a thing for Science Fiction – the scientific, spacetravel sort – not the vicious alien sort.  I love reading about howscience could stretch our current possibilities and how ideas can take shape. Apart from sci-fi, I really love travel books and natural history – theworld is a really huge, amazing and varied place and I love to read and learnabout it.  I particularly enjoy lush photographs and illustrations that Ican sit and wonder at.  As a rule, I will read almost anything excepthorror, because I’m a coward at heart, I don’t want my horizons expanding whenit comes to nightmares! at least!  


  
  1. Energetic and enthusiastic are two words that suit an Arian well.  A downside of all that energy is restlessness, the need to be constantly moving.  Does this affect the times when you sit down to read?  Is there at time when you are calmer?  Do you read as you are doing other things? (ie walking around)  Does this affect your concentration?
I love readingand used to read constantly when I was younger.  After having kids I lostthe ability to sit still for more than half an hour at a time, and consequentlyread about 2 books in five years. I realised this last year and decided to ‘dosomething’ about that because reading is something that I actually find reallyrelaxing.  You see I have to actually sit still to read, there’s no way Ican do housework whilst reading! This means that reading has now become ‘metime’ and it means so much to sit in a quiet corner, with a cup of tea anddisappear off into another world for half an hour or so.  I have actuallyconsidered reading whilst stomping along on my school run (before picking thekids up) but I suspect I’d walk under a bus or trample little old ladies orsomething.  Probably not the best idea in the world for me.

   

  1. Arians are direct, frank and candid.  The phrase ‘what you see is what you get’ could be applied to a native with the sun in Aries.  Do you think these energies come across in the reviews you write?

This question made me chuckle! I am known for beingdirect, frank and candid and do speak my mind if I think it necessary.  This applies to reviews, my blog and in life in general. I see nopoint pretending to be something I’m not, or to pretend something I’m readingis something it is not.  A spade is a spade as they say!  Mind you, Ido waffle and use flowery language too.  Perhaps it should be ‘a muddyspade left in the flowerbed, is a muddy spade left in the flowerbed’…..

  1. Organisation is a strong trait in Arians.  Are you organised in choosing which book to read next and when you will blog your review?
  
I suspect I’m a rubbish Arian. I’m about as organised as a bag of ferrets.  My life is very busywith kids and responsibilities so I simply read when I can – this does mean myreviews will probably be very spontaneous.  As for a blogging schedule, Itry to blog when my heart and mind is in the moment.  That’s when I preferto write, ideally. It doesn’t always work that way, but that’s the intent atleast.
(comment from Ed; sounds like you need to be organised with your home and responsibilitiesJso I wouldn’t say you were a rubbish Arian!)


  1. While Arians welcome challenges, if things aren’t moving fast enough for them they move on.  If you are reading a book that is slow-going, do you give up and move onto another book?  Do you skip or scan pages to get to the end?  Have you ever read the ending of a book first?

I could never, ever read the end of a book before readingthe rest of it!  That’s just not an option for me at all.  It wouldbe like opening all my xmas presents in November or something.  I do findbooks that are slow moving a little frustrating though, and have been known toleave them on the side for later reading, or to brush my eyes speedily overpages so I can get to a good bit that I find more interesting.   (slapsown hand) 


  1. Those born with an Aries sun are the leaders of the zodiac.  They like to be first and expect others to listen to them.  Do you network with other bloggers?  Do you share what has worked for you?  Do you listen to what has worked for others and then implement it for yourself?  
  
One characteristic that hasdriven me throughout my life is my competitive nature. It’s not like I used topush people over in games at school or anything (I was appalling at sport, iftruth be told), but I used to work really, really hard to win housepoints andwas probably an awful swot. If I want to be good at something, I throw all myenergies and passion into it – and feel an abject failure if I don’t measure upto other people’s standards.  With this in mind, my blogs (http://chaoskay.blogspot.com/),’A Little Bit Bookish’ (http://www.brinkofbedlam.co.uk) ‘The Brink ofBedlam’ are a constant source of great pride and tremendous frustration. I do network with other bloggers and constantly watch how they write andhow they work – whilst attempting to learn, get better at what I do and find myown way around the blogging / tweeting / tinternet community.   Call me asoppy sentimentalist, but I’m a great believer in what goes around comesaround, so almost without fail, I try my best to help others out if I can in respectof blogging, writing, reading and in all aspects of life.  

Thank you for sharing with us Kay.

Kay is an Associate Reader for Loveahappyending which is an interactive reader/author website.  Visit Loveahappyending to find out more about this brilliant project and how you, as a reader, can support them.

http://www.brinkofbedlam.co.uk - The Brink of Bedlam blog
http://chaoskay.blogspot.com     - A Little Bit Bookish
About Kay:
Where do I start? I am mother to two young children and a ginger cat,am happily married and bumble about on my blogs to try and keep my brainticking over.  In addition to blogging I am an avid ‘comper’ with anoptimistic nature, life is unpredictable and I always hope for the best (whilstquietly preparing for the worst, just in case….) I have been told that I havea quirky sense of humour, which is something I cultivate – again a way to keepmy brain entertained whilst at home: ie, when the potty’s upturned on thefloor, the cat’s covered in High School Musical stickers and my daughter haspermanent markered her hands bright green there’s not much more to do thanlaugh – because if I didn’t, I’d cry! That kind of thing.



Shaz’ Stars interviews Associate Reader Melanie Robertson-King

In the hot seat today I would like to welcome:


MELANIE ROBERTSON-KING

Hello Melanie, thank you for letting us have a peek behindthe scenes.  Your sun sign is SCORPIO.


  1. Scorpions are said to have an excellent memory.  Are you able to stop reading at any point …………..  and then when you pick the book up again remember exactly what has happened, who the characters are and where you are in the story?

When I’m reading, I prefer to stop at the end of a chapterbut we all know that isn’t always an option. Quite often, I read during mylunch hours and when it’s time to go back to work, it’s mark the page if I’mreading a physical book or shut down the reader device. I have a Sony and theKindle app on the iPad.

I don’t have to go back normally to refresh my memory ofwhat’s happening. Usually, once I pick up the story and begin to read again, Ifall into the familiarity of the people and places that I’m reading about.
Sometimes, my memory about books is a little too good. Iread a book by an author a year ago. I read the second one by the same authorthis year. When I got to the ending of this second book, I felt a déjà-vumoment. I had read this before. I checked the first book, because after all, anauthor wouldn’t end two books the same way but in this case that’s whathappened.



  1. Associate Readers are avid readers.  Scorpions are very conservative about spending their money.  Does a novel have a set criteria for you to purchase it?  What attracts you to the books you choose to buy?  Do you use your library?
I haven’t used my local library much of late, I’m ashamed tosay. I’ve used it for researching my articles of a historic nature that are setin the area. I have borrowed books and as a young girl, I practically livedthere—taking books out and returning them on a regular basis.
When it comes to books if I want it, I go ahead and buy it.I’ve built up quite a collection of physical and e-books. I do like the factthat most e-books are a fraction of the price of physical books although I’mnot so sure that’s my inner Scorpio or my Scottish roots and their thriftiness.
As far as a criteria for novels to purchase goes, if thecover is interesting enough to make me want to pick it up off the shelf (againwe’re talking our local independent or chain bookstore), then I read the blurbon the back. If it sounds like something I’d be interested in, then I buy it.I’m particularly interested in novels set in England, Scotland or Wales.
The e-books I’ve purchased have been recommended by friendsor authors I know.



  1. A typical Scorpion never gives up, they are determined to reach their goal.  Does this affect your reading?  Do you read to the end of a book even if you’re not enjoying it?  Does this affect your choice of book?
I’m on a reader panel for a well-known publisher and some ofthe books they’ve sent me are a struggle to get through but I persevere. I’vealmost put a book down because of bad copy editing. The storyline was good so Ikept reading and I’m very glad I did.
There’s only one book that I couldn’t read. Not that it wasbadly written but when you move a castle from within the heart of ruralAberdeenshire and plunk it on the North Sea coast south of Aberdeen… I drawthe line. I’ve travelled to that area of Scotland many times and know the twocastles… the real one and the mis-located one. I couldn’t get past thatflagrant error.


  1. Scorpions are known for being interested in the paranormal, the occult, conspiracy theories and mysteries.  Does this interest extend to your choice of genre?
Since I was young, I loved the idea of ghosts. Mygrandmother’s house was close to a cemetery so I played there a lot with mycousins. The stories we conjured up there, well we were kids, but at the timewere fantastic. I spent many a happy hour having séances or with the Ouijaboard. Vampires and werewolves were favourite subjects. Some of the earliestbooks I read (borrowed from my local library) were Alfred Hitchcock mysteries.
I love a variety of genres—crime, romance, paranormal,mystery, occult. I have a couple of books from my younger years… Tales toTremble By and Ghosts around the
House by Suzy Smith that I refuse to give up. Not to mentionearlier works by Stephen King. The scarier books are the better I like them. Ihope I haven’t deviated from your question too much.
(Ed.  No deviationfrom your question – we want to get to know you J)
Q.       Scorpions always seem to accomplish their goals.  This is because they set tangible short-termgoals that they know they can achieve. Do you use this trait in scheduling your book reviews?  Do you plan which book you will readnext?  How do you choose which book youwill read next?
If I’m reading a number of books by one author then I tendto read them in order of publication. As far as book reviews go, I tend towrite them after I’ve read the book while it’s still fresh in mind. Some folkssay they keep notes while they read when they know they’re reviewing a work,not me.
When it comes to what book I’ll read next, I would have tosay what mood I’m in at the time. If I’m feeling dark, then I’ll pick up acrime or mystery. Otherwise I’ll grab something at random off my overloadedbookcases.
Unfortunately, when it comes to my writing (revisionsespecially), I’m not so good at achieving my goals. I usually manage to write somethingevery day but it might not be on my WIP. My goal for 2011 was to write everyday. That fell by the wayside some time ago.
  1. On the ‘outside’ a Scorpion sun person will present a cool, detached and unemotional air.  However, on an inner level, they are intensely passionate.  When you write your reviews, are you cool, detached and unemotional or does that passion come through?
I’ve not written many reviews so this is a hard question toanswer. I would have to say so far I keep my reviews on the cool side and stickto the plot and characters. I suppose the more reviews I write, the morepassion I’ll inflect into them. I do agree with the statement that Scorpiospresent a cool, detached and unemotional air but underneath lies a totallyopposite person. I think that is a self-preservation measure that Scorpios haveconstructed to keep our passionate inner selves safe, lest we crumble.
(Ed.  Thank youfor your honesty)

Thank you for sharing with us Melanie.

Melanie is an Associate Reader for Loveahappyending which is an interactive reader/author website.  Visit Loveahappyending to find out more about this brilliant project and how you, as a reader, can support them.


About Melanie 

I consider myself a romance writer but write in other genres, too.Currently, ten of my non-fiction articles have been published, with one being afeature cover article.


I have two novel-length manuscripts completed. One is languishing witha publisher waiting for a yay or nay, the other (my first) is undergoing amajor revision. When I need a break from it, I pick up a book and read or Iwrite short stories.


My father was a HomeChild who came to Canada through the auspices of TheOrphan Homes of Scotland in 1930. My article Always a Home Boy is hisand his siblings story. I also speak to local historical and genealogicalsocieties on the subject of Home Children.


My father encouraged me to study Highland Dancing and take part inlocal competitions. I last competed in the summer 1969, a few short monthsafter his death, at the 1000 Islands Highland Games and won the Silver Medal inthe Sword Dance. In addition to Highland dancing, I took piping lessons and owna set of bagpipes which haven’t seen the light of day in a number of years –probably much to the relief of my neighbours.


I love to read but now that I’m writing, I have to be careful what Ichoose. I don’t want things from other people’s writings finding their way intomy own work. So, to that end, I try to read from totally different genres. Idon’t think I could write it effectively, but I love to read crime fiction –Ian Rankin, Stuart MacBride, Val McDermid, PD James, and of course, my goodfriend Chris Longmuir.


My other interests include genealogy, especially the study of HomeChildren, photography and travel – particularly Scotland because of my kinshipwith my father’s homeland. It was on a trip to Scotland, that I had the honourof meeting The Princess Royal.

My website link: http://www.melanierobertson-king.com

My blog, Celtic Connexions:  http://www.melanierobertson-king.com/wp02/



Shaz’ Stars interviews Associate Reader Kim Nash

In the hot seat today I would like to welcome:


KIM NASH

Hello Kim, thank you for letting us have a peek behind thescenes into your reading habits.  Yoursun sign is LEO.


  1. A typical Leo loves glamorous locations and adventure.  Is this a genre that you like to have on your bookshelf? 

I do like to read about glamorouslocations and a bit of adventure but not too much!   Something that takes me out of my everyday “normal” life, into aworld that I might like to step into!  Ido like books to be realistic though as I’m bit cynical and find it hard tobelieve things that are really over the top! I struggle a bit with sci-fi. Can’t watch any films that are unrealistic as I just can’t relate tothem and sit there thinking that it couldn’t possibly happen anyway!  And it’s the same with books for me.  My favourite type of book is chick lit.  I love a happy ever after, dream come trueromance that leaves me feeling all happy and warm when I’ve read it.   I also love to read books aboutfriendships, they’re a very important part of life and I like to read aboutother people’s friends and their relationships.  Milly Johnson’s wonderful latest novel Here Come The Girls wasall about friendship and I loved it!   Ireally enjoy reading about life after death and mediums.  Read a couple of fanastic books latelyTouched by the Light by Linn B Halton and Discovery at Rosehill by KathrynBrown – both excellent paranormal romances which I thoroughly enjoyed. 
  1. Leonine people set themselves high standards.  Does this become a problem for you when you’re writing your book reviews?  Do you find yourself editing what you’ve written because you think it could be better (when in fact others would see it as adequate).
Is that why I do it?  I do read, and re-read, and read it again tomake sure it sounds right.  I also worrythat there can’t be any spelling mistakes in it, as I work for a company thatoffer copywriting as one of our services so we have to be hot on having thingsspelt correctly and also grammatically correct.  And one of my bosses Linda has a bit of a thing about apostrophesso I’m scared still that I might put them in the wrong place.  I’ve actually known myself rewrite a wholesentence and change the wording to remove the apostrophe completely rather thanget it wrong!  One of my pet hates isreading spelling mistakes.  I rememberhaving an email argument once with someone and I couldn’t focus on theargument, just the fact that it wasn’t spelt correctly! Bit strange but that’sme I’m afraid!
  1. In romance, Leo’s have high aspirations and are idealistic.  In the romance genre, do the characters live up to your romantic expectations?  What makes a character believable for you? 
This is definitely my genre. As Isaid earlier, I do like a happy ever after story and I also quite like a bit ofa hero.  I recently read Who’s Afraid ofMr Wolfe by Hazel Osmond and the male character Jack Wolfe was just perfectalong with Ellie who was also a fab character, sassy, clever, hardworking,beautiful, someone to admire and look up to. Hazel definitely has a knack of making her characters believable.  Bagpipes and Bullshot by Janice Horton wasalso a proper happy ever after story with fabulously believablecharacters.  I suppose every girl’sdream is to be whisked away by a handsome man who is going to love her and lookafter her – or is that just me?
  1. Those ruled by the Sun are able to see the bigger picture.  Do you predict what may happen as you are reading, taking your cues from inference?  Do you see a twist in the plot coming?  Have you started to read anything that is predictable and not finished the story?
I try not to look too far aheadin a book.  I never read the last pageas I wouldn’t want to spoil the whole book by peeking at the end.  I try to read it as I go along, although ina book I recently read called The Surprise Party by Sue Welfare, I did havesuspicions about a certain character that turned out to be correct.   I don’t mind predictability and I don’tthink I’ve ever not finished a book even if I’m not really enjoying it,although they are very few and far between.
Q.               Leo’s are generous and warm-hearted.  How do you feel when you have to write a review for a book thatjust wasn’t for you?  Do you focus onthe positives but also include what you didn’t like and why?  Or do you decide not to write a review forthat particular book.  What is yourapproach?
I’m so lucky that so far Ihaven’t had this crop up.  I’m dreadingit though because if someone has gone to all that trouble to write, publish andmarket a book, and ask me to do a review, I’d hate to put the dampers on it forthem by saying that I didn’t like it.  I’ve only been blogging about books for about five months, so any adviceanyone can give on how to handle that would be much appreciated. 
(Ed:  Arethere any readers who are able to offer advice to Kim on how to handle thissituation for the future?)
Q.  A typical Leowill dislike safety.  Do you take risksin choosing genres to read or do you stick to one genre?  What makes you pick up a book and decide toread it?
I am a complete magpie and likeanything shiny, sparkly and colourful on a cover.  I also like pictures that look nice and that I can relateto.  One of the first books that I wasasked to review was Mothers & Daughters by Kate Long and when it arrived inthe post and I unwrapped it, I was delighted because it was a white backgroundwith pink and purple (purple being my favourite colour!) shoes and handbags andit was sparkly and glittery!  I loved itjust by looking at the cover.  And againto mention Hazel Osmond’s Who’s Afraid of Mr Wolfe, again purple and sparkly –a gorgeous cover.  I’ve received a bookthis week to review called Turning the Tide by Christine Stovell and the coveris the most gorgeous picture of a lady sat on some rocks by water looking atthe most gorgeous coloured sky.  That’sthe sort of picture that attracts me to a book, then when I’ve read what itsabout, if it sounds like something I’m going to gel with, I’ll read it. 
Thank you for sharing your reading habits and blogging skills Kim.

Kim is an Associate Reader for Loveahappyending which is an interactive reader/author website.  Visit Loveahappyending to find out more about this brilliant project and how you, as a reader, can support them.



About Kim The Book Worm

Momto my delicious three year and a half old son Oliver, marketing co-ordinator atPassionate Media and reviewer for http://www.havealovelytime.com/ Ihave always been an avid reader since I was a child.  I always remember mydarling Mom telling me not to stay awake too late reading, but I ignored heradvice and would sit up till all hours with my nose in a book dying to get tothe end!   She didn’t mind really, she was exactly the same when shewas young – obviously where I got it from. 

I’ve read millions of fabulous books over the years.  One of the mostmemorable ones which still sticks in my mind now, is Lets Meet on Platform 8 byCarole Matthews.  This book that had me feeling the raw emotions of themain character which has stayed with me even though I read it a million yearsago!  She is still one of my favourite authors and I can’t wait till herlatest books come out so I can get them straight away! 

When I was young, I always imagined myself grown up and having my own bookpublishing company where I was sent millions of books and I got to read themall, that was going to be my job!  Fantastic.  I’m now 42 years oldand have never got my dream of my own book publishing company but recentlydecided that I was going to do something that I loved doing and that was toread and to comment upon the books that I read. 

During reading a book called Spring Affair by the wonderful Milly Johnson, Iwrote to Milly and had to tell her how fabulous, motivating and inspirational Ifound her book.  It was all about clutter clearing and made me immediatelygo and clear out my cupboards then look at different aspects of my life and Isuppose that moment was the instigating moment that made me decide to dothis blog.  Milly wrote back to me the same day to thank me for mycomments and I’ve kept in touch with her a few times and suggested my idea toher and she told me to go for it. 

For that Milly, I am eternally grateful.  You are a fabulous author and awonderful lady and thank you so much for your kind words andencouragement. 

Even though I find myself saying that I don’t have time to do lots of things, Ialways manage to find time to read especially when I’m on holiday, althoughwith a 3 and a half year old, its not always easy.  I can get throughloads of books on my hols, upsetting my other half very much when he bought methe latest James Patterson hardback before we went on our last holiday, and I’dread it before the end of the day! 

I work for a PR and editiorial agency in Cannock, Staffs called PassionateMedia as a Marketing Co-ordinator.  I absolutely love working with thepeople there, such a genuine and lovely group of people. 


I hope that my wonderful Mom is looking down on me from heaven and is proud ofthe fact that I’ve created this blog all about books and that she’s happy thatI’m able to spend a little of my time doing something that I thoroughly enjoy.
You can read Kim’s book reviews at: http://kimthebookworm.blogspot.com/
Follow Kim on twitter : @kimthebookworm