Review Policy

PLEASE READ.

I have decided to no longer offer a book review service. I will probably also be phasing out my blog altogether. Sorry.

My name is J. David Core. You can call me Dave. I will be reviewing one new book per quarter. I can accept ebooks in either pdf or mobi formats, and I can accept trade paperbacks through the US mail. Please query first with a synopsis in the body of the email, and if I am interested in the project I will make contact about the best method for you. I will try to post my review within six to twelve weeks. I used to send a note if I was passing on a project or if the book lost my interest. I no longer do that, sorry. Please do not be discouraged by a rejection, and feel free to query again with future projects. Not every book is going to appeal to every reader or every reviewer.

My review will consist of a brief synopsis, and my personal reactions to the story, writing style, character development and my overall impression.  Reviews will include a cover image, a short excerpt, a picture of the author if available, and a link to the author's website, facebook page or online store. Trade paperbacks will be donated unless accompanied by a SASE.

I am not interested in non-fiction. Genres that I am interested in include:

• Mystery,

• Sci-fi (of the hard genre — no fantasy,)

• Thriller,

• Political intrigue,

• Action-adventure,

• and Heist.

I am not particularly interested in the horror genre, but I could be persuaded to review a good zombie story. Vampires of the non-sparkly variety might also warrant a review. I will no longer give reviews for stories with a religious or faith-affirming theme that has not been telegraphed in the book's description. If I agree to review your story based on a blurb or description that calls the story a thriller only to find out while reading that devils or angels or fairies or Jesus or some other form of supernatural fates are involved in the resolution, I will stop reading and move on to the next project never to think about your story again. If you've written a book like The Devil's Advocate or Angel Heart, say so. I liked those stories and might review something similar provided I know what I'm getting going in.

One more thing, I prefer to review self-published authors. I began this blog to help those who need the most help. This is not to say that I will not accept a submission from a publishing house, but first priority goes to indies.

Send your query to dave@thrillsandmystery.com. If I am interested, I will try to respond within six weeks.

P.S. Click here to see my personal suggestions for creating the most effective review queries.