All reviews are written by C.
I'm not open to unsolicited requests for reviews. This page contains information for publishers I contact directly to request a review copy.
I'm not open to unsolicited requests for reviews. This page contains information for publishers I contact directly to request a review copy.
The Middle Shelf editorial line
- I review only science fiction and fantasy novels and novellas, sometimes but rarely, horror novels.
- I only review stories that I've liked. Please, bear that in mind when submitting an ARC to me.
- I don't review series of books which aren't completed.
- I don't review self-published books.
- I strongly prefer diverse stories written by diverse writers.
- I will NOT review books written by AI or writers which have used AI as a "helper" and I will NOT review books if the cover is AI generated.
Genres reviewed on The Middle Shelf
- I only review science-fiction or fantasy, and their various sub-genres. Any amount of blurred boundaries between these genres is welcome.
- If romance is the main plot, it's highly unlikely I'll enjoy the story.
- In the various sub-genres, please note that I'm unlikely to enjoy grimdark, hopepunk, and techno-thriller stories.
- I prefer novels and novellas but I may, on occasion, review a collection or an anthology if the stories have been written by authors from traditionally under represented groups.
- I do not review YA, MG or kidlit.
- Professionally translated works are accepted.
If you are unsure whether I may like the book or not, you can check my past reviews to see what I usually like.
WHERE ARE THE REVIEWS PUBLISHED?
ON THE MIDDLE SHELF:
I can, on request, post a review on Kobo too. Please note that I don't post reviews on GoodReads or Amazon.
- On The Middle Shelf I only review books that feel special to me. A copy received and read isn't a guarantee of a review on the blog.
- I may not publish the review before a couple of months though if it is an ARC I will do my best to review it before the publication date.
- If I review it, a disclaimer will appear at the end of the review: "A free copy was received but with no obligation attached to review it on The Middle Shelf."
- The review is promoted afterwards on Mastodon (700+ followers) and sent to my newsletter subscribers.
I can, on request, post a review on Kobo too. Please note that I don't post reviews on GoodReads or Amazon.
The Middle Shelf prefers diverse scifi and fantasy!
- I am happy to read stories written by BIPOC writers even if it's not a recent publication.
- I am happy to read stories written by women writers (WoC and trans women included, of course), whether they have a feminist theme or not.
- I am happy to read stories by non binary / intersex / gender queer / agender writers. Their correct pronouns will be used if they are publicly available at the time of publication. I'm happy to modify pronouns (even years) after publication, but please let me know by using the contact form.
- I am happy to read a story by LGBTQIA+ writers (A standing for ace/aro) whether they are out or not.
- I am happy to read a story that includes mental health or disability issues, preferrably own voices.
- Despite those diversity guidelines, I am also happy to read stories by white cis het male writers. But don't expect me to like a mediocre story just because the writer belongs to a group that has dominated the publishing industry for centuries.
Practical details
If I request a review copy you're kind enough to consider it:
- An .epub will be preferred to a hard copy. No .mobi or .pdf, thank you. Please don't send a DRMed file as I use an ereader which doesn't like them (PocketBook).
- The reviews are published as soon as possible, though I usually have a full publishing schedule for the next two months. In the case of an ARC, I'll try to publish it before the book is released.
SMALL AND INDIE PRESS ARE WELCOME
I strongly support small and independent presses. I have reviewed books from Angry Robot, Aqueduct, Unsung Stories, Fox Spirit Books, Rebellion Press, etc. and I have received ARCs and review copies from Unsung Stories, Tachyon, Wizard's Tower Press, Luna Press, and Fox Spirit Books among others. On the mood index, a tab is dedicated to small press stories I've reviewed (Small Press, Big Stories).
Considering the number of unsolicited requests for reviews I receive, I'm afraid it bears repetition: I am not open to request for reviews from indie writers. Indie presses, yes. Indie writers, no. There are, however, plenty of book blogs open to indie writers and I'm sure your request will be welcome there and in the hands of someone who will handle it much better than I ever would.
Considering the number of unsolicited requests for reviews I receive, I'm afraid it bears repetition: I am not open to request for reviews from indie writers. Indie presses, yes. Indie writers, no. There are, however, plenty of book blogs open to indie writers and I'm sure your request will be welcome there and in the hands of someone who will handle it much better than I ever would.
COVER REVEALS AND BLOG TOURS
I don't do that.
DO YOU REVIEW INDIE WRITERS?
No, sorry.
TL;DR
- I don't review self-published books.
- I prefer diverse books.
- I only review a book I've liked.
- Epubs are my preferred format.
- Absolutely no AI generated content or cover.