#ArmchairBEA: Day 3: Blogging Q&A

Well, I have been back and forth about what to post for this one.

I have been blogging for a number of years but I still feel like I don’t have a lot to say on this topic.

One of the biggest pieces of advice I could give a new blogger is to not get so obsessed with ARCs and status.  All of those things will come in time.  Focus in the beginning on getting a routine established and finding your voice and your style.

The worst thing in blogging is to feel like you are reading because you have to.  You will burn yourself out every time and not want to pick up a book for months.  Believe me, I speak from experience.

The other important bit is to not think you have to say yes to every request you get.  It is okay to say no, that you do not feel like a book would be a good fit for your blog.  But be professional about it.

The bottom line is that book blogging should be fun.  Remember why you started blogging.  And if you got into this for free books, please stop and think.

As far as ARCs are concerned, get familiar with sites like Netgalley and Edelweiss.  This is the best starting point.  Don’t expect to be able to email a publisher when your blog has been open for a few weeks and get results.  Establish yourself.  Reach out to other bloggers and ask for advice.  If you take the steps to make sure you have a quality blog in the beginning, when the time is right, you will have success with print publishers.  Feel free to pick my brain any time!