The Secret Life of a Book Blogger Tag

I was recently tagged by Kara @ Diary of a Teen Writer to do this 'secret life of a book blogger tag', so here I am ready to spill the beans on how I blog and reveal how I really am some secret agent in disguise   *ahem* just your typical bookworm who loves to read and fangirl over the books she loves!

1. How long have you been a blogger?

Well I started co-blogging with Stephanie @ Chasm of Books in December 2013, before branching out to start my own blog here in September 2014. So all up, that makes 1yr and 9 months :) My first Genie In A Book blogoversary is coming up really soon on 13th September, so stay tuned for that!

2. At what point do you think you’ll stop blogging?

Never I hope! It's something I aim to keep on doing as long as I have the drive and motivation to read and spread the word about new and old books alike that are worth a read.

3. What is the best thing about blogging?

Along with the support from other bloggers, the bookish community as a whole is generally a fantastic one, especially in Australia. We're a close bunch and it's lovely to meet other bookworms in person at events!

4. What is the worst thing? What do you do to make it okay?

Sometimes not having the time to blog because life gets in the way! Taking a step back when you need too is something I've learnt is important though, to refresh and come back with a new perspective.

5. How long does it take you to create/find pictures to use?

It depends - for gifs it can take some time to find the perfect one to capture that particular reaction. When I'm making quote graphics or something for my image slider it can take longer to get it just right.

6. Who is your book crush?

I hope I don't have to pick one here. Because that would be hard.
Soooo...here are a few (in no particular order)

• Jamie Gallagher from Spark by Rachael Craw
• Rowan from If I Speak True by Jessica L. Brooks
• Will from Slammed by Colleen Hoover
• Dalton from The Rosie Black Chronicles by Lara Morgan

7. What author would you like to have on your blog?

I've been lucky enough to have a few fabulous authors on my blog, but two I'd love to feature specifically would be Jackie French and Kate Forsyth.

8. What do you wear when you write your blog posts?

Typically something comfy! It's not a glamorous life being a blogger, but at least you can wear trackies at home when you're writing a post and nobody cares.

9. How long does it take you to prepare?

In terms of blogging, it depends on the type of post - writing up and editing/finding or making graphics can take anywhere from half an hour to hours. It varies.

10. How do you feel about the book blogger community?

because booknerds are the best kind.

As I said above, generally they're an awesome bunch. Yes, there is the occasional drama, but overall we're all here with the same passion for books and reading.

11. What do you think one should do to get a successful blog?

I don't consider myself an expert by any means, but I'd say (and this is a cliche I know) to be yourself and find your unique blogging voice. Blog about what you're passionate about, be honest, but also respectful to others at the same time.

I tag:

Brett @ Brett Michael Orr

Aentee @ Read at Midnight

Lisa @ Lost in Literature

Chiara @ Books for a Delicate Eternity

Aimee @ Deadly Darlings

Other questions I've been asked recently:

Do you get paid to blog?

No I don't, it's an unpaid hobby for me. Though the wonderful publishers I review for do send me books for free from time to time which I'm very grateful for. However, it's a privilege not a right.

How do you get a good layout?

I think it depends on what blogging platform you use and what you think suits your style. Some prefer more simplistic/minimalist designs while others go for an artistic look. As long as its not too cluttered and easy to read/navigate, then you're on the right track in my opinion.

How do you receive books from publishers and get author interviews?

I only started receiving books from publishers after I'd been reviewing for a while, and it's key to ask politely and genuinely. You don't have to get ARC's to be a good blogger. If you do want to request though, then you can check on the publishing houses pages for their general publicity contact email address. Don't expect a reply straight away (publicists are busy people!), and if you do get knocked back once, don't lost heart! HarperCollins Australia have some good tips and information for YA reviewers here.

As for author interviews, they're generally part of blog tours organised through publishers for the promotion of a particular book. 

What is book trading?

Book trading is basically swapping books that you don't want for ones that you do with someone else. It can be done in a number of ways, through blogs or on twitter with hashtags such as #booksfortrade, or in Australia #booksfortradeAU which I set up. Basically you tweet with photos or a list the books you have for trading, and then engage with others who may be interested in order to set up a trade. It's probably a good idea to ask for someone's wishlist to see if you have something they want, otherwise make a few suggestions and negotiate. As long as you both act ethically and send out the books in the arrangement you've organised, it all runs smoothly.

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So, there are some little facts about me and my blogging life, as well as some tips on the FAQ.

Over to you - what are some of your blogging secrets?