When I first decided I wanted to review books, I thought it would be really cool if I could find a book program which would allow me to have access to newly released, or not yet released books. I was surprised at the amount of book programs I could find. I signed up for Bloggingforbooks, Firsttoread, and Netgalley. With these programs, I am allowed to request access to books that I am interested in. I can see a short summary, just like the back of the book cover. Then a couple different things happen. I can be automatically approved for access (Bloggingforbooks). I can also have my request approved (Netgalley). This can take time and I receive an email if I am approved. Lastly, I enter into a drawing for access to a book that has a time limit and only after this expires can I find out if I have been approved (Firsttoread). I am not sent books I have not expressed interest in. Instead I find books I would really like and read them! It’s a wonderful set of programs, and I have been very pleased with them.
On to the reviewing part. I am not obligated to post a review on Netgalley or Firsttoread. On Bloggingforbooks I cannot request another book unless I enter a review or feedback on the website. I am not obliged to put the reviews on the blog. For Netgalley the more books I send feedback for, the better my rating is (which is a percentage from how many books I have received to how many I have sent feedback for). On Firsttoread you can accumulate points which can secure you a copy of a book. The necessity for an honest review is always stressed.
I just wanted to take the time to explain this process and how it works! If you have any questions, please leave a comment below!