Book Reviews

Interviewing the Book Reviewer – Joanna Larum

14th August 2018

I thought that along with interviewing my favourite authors, I would like to interview my fellow book bloggers.  Here’s the first of the Book Reviewer interviews, Joanna Larum.

Joanna is not only a busy book reviewer but she is also an author herself.  Her latest book, Martha’s Secrets was released earlier this month and it’s a fantastic read.

Now I’m handing over to Joanna who will, no doubt, entertain you. 🙂

First off, tell us a little bit about yourself.

I am Joanna Larum.  I spent 25 years working for the library services. Now I’m retired and have time to read again.

Joanna on Book Reviews

When did you start reviewing books and why?

I have reviewed books on Amazon since about 2010. I aim to encourage writers who write the books I like and spread the word to other readers.

How soon after finishing a book do you write the review?

Usually immediately, but always very soon after.

What are the best and worst parts of being a Book Reviewer?

Best – being able to talk about books and encourage other readers. Worst – when I’ve read them all and I’m waiting for a new one!

Joanna on Reading

What is your earliest reading memory?

Finally being able to read the ends of all the stories my big sister began reading aloud to me before I started school.

Do you have a favourite book? Tell me about it.

The Minipins by Carol Kendall. It is a junior book which I first read in 1962. I still have a copy of it. Wonderful story.

What is your favourite genre and why?

Not just one! Historical, fantasy, crime, saga etc. The only one I don’t like is horror!

Who are your favourite authors?

Oh heck! Tolkien, Anya Seton, Rosemary Sutcliffe, Joy Ellis, Stewart Giles, Charlie Gallagher, Daisy White, Gretta Mulrooney, Norah Lofts, Catherine Cookson, Steve Parker, Helen Durant, etc etc

Does your family get your passion for reading?

NO

What items are essentials to have by your side when you read?

Chocolate.

Do you have a favourite place to read? Tell me about it.

Anytime, any place any where!

Do you think audiobooks, eBooks or physical books are better? Why?

Can’t do with audiobooks – too slow! I love ebooks and physical books equally.

Joanna’s Random Thoughts

Do you ever feel inspired to write your own book?  Have you ever written your own book?

Oh yes! I’ve just finished my 7th historical novel, Martha’s Secrets. I’ve also written a book for children Rowandell and have others half written.

What inspires you to get out of bed every day?

My writing and my cats and grandchildren

What is your most unusual reader’s quirk?

Books I really love I will read over and over and over again.

Do you feel like you would be a better book reviewer if you wore sparkly rainbow socks during your reading sessions?

No, but I would be a better reviewer if I got chocolate delivered every day.

Joanna’s Books

14 Comments

  • Reply
    Laura
    17th August 2018 at 6:25 pm

    Love this idea, especially as a fellow book reviewer! Was really interesting to read this interview 🙂

    • Reply
      Beth Davidson
      23rd August 2018 at 8:57 am

      If you fancy an interview let me know. 🙂

  • Reply
    Michelle Twin Mum
    17th August 2018 at 5:11 pm

    I’m not sure I have the patience to be a book reviewer. It would help me read some new genres though, as I get stuck in a rut with just reading chick lit. Mich x

    • Reply
      Beth Davidson
      23rd August 2018 at 8:58 am

      I’ll read just about anything at the best of times, so being a book reviewer suits me down to the ground.

  • Reply
    hannah
    17th August 2018 at 3:00 pm

    Great interview. I wish I could get back into reading again but I struggle finding books I don’t get bored of!

    • Reply
      Beth Davidson
      23rd August 2018 at 8:59 am

      Oooh, it sounds like you need a good, fast-paced thriller to get your teeth into.

  • Reply
    Danielle
    16th August 2018 at 12:18 pm

    It’s always nice to get to know the blogger a little bit. Hello and nice to “meet” you 🙂

  • Reply
    Kara
    15th August 2018 at 3:00 pm

    I would love to read more. Agreeing with her that having chocolate delivered every day would make me a better reviewer LOL

  • Reply
    Rhian westbury
    15th August 2018 at 6:15 am

    Lovely interview, I agree I’m not a fan of horror books either, and some great authors x

  • Reply
    Laura Dove
    14th August 2018 at 10:57 pm

    This is so interesting! I’d love to be a book reviewer! Im part of a book club where we review books and I;d love to do that professionally!

  • Reply
    Sarah Bailey
    14th August 2018 at 5:52 pm

    How nice to get to know a little more about another blogger, there is something amazing about reading as well – I can imagine if my eyesight wasn’t so bad I would have loved to have reviewed books once!

  • Reply
    Micaela Levachyov
    14th August 2018 at 2:43 pm

    Wow, 25 years working for the library services is amazing! I enjoy historical novels so will have to check out Martha’s Secrets.

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