FAQS
About Reviews, ARC/Beta Reading
What goes into my book reviews?
Ever wonder what happens behind the scenes at
Robin’s Review? Here’s a quick look at how I approach every book I review—from
TBR to final thoughts:
📹 Initial Announcement
I’ll share that your book is on my TBR list and
officially add it to my reading calendar on Robin’s Review.
🖊️ Reading & Annotation
As I read, I annotate using sticky tabs or digital
highlights. I take thoughtful notes on plot, pacing, characters, style, and
anything that stands out—good or bad.
📹 Currently Reading Update
Want updates? I’ll share a “currently reading” post
and let readers know a review is on the way (upon request).
📹 Final Announcement + Review
Once my review is complete, I’ll post a final
update—either:
A short book review
directing readers to the full write-up on Robin’s Review
or
A full written review with a star rating
announcement (upon request) and posted to Robin’s Review
📅 Timeline Coordination: Let me know.
Release date
Preferred review posting date
Any promo event(s) or cover reveal dates
📚 Series Info: Please include reading order and next release dates, if relevant and/or available.
🎥 Optional Video Review
While written reviews are my specialty, I do offer video reviews upon request—just let me know if you’d like one included!
What is Your Rating Sysytem?
Robin’s Review Book Rating System
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Must read 🏆 – This was an exceptional book that you can’t stop raving about.
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐: Loved it! 😍 – This was a great book that you’d recommend to readers, but certain aspects prevented it from being a 5-star read.
- ⭐⭐⭐: Worth reading 😎 – This was a good book that you’d recommend to certain readers, but it wasn’t exceptional and/or had some aspects that could be improved upon.
- ⭐⭐: Not for me 😔 – You didn’t enjoy this book; while there were some positive aspects, the book was lacking in several areas and you’d be hesitant to recommend it.
- ⭐: Skip it 👎 – This book had some major issues that need to be reworked; you wouldn’t recommend it.
My Skull Dread Rating (scary genres)
💀💀💀💀💀I gotta stop: this is book is way too messed up for me.
💀💀💀💀I have serious concerns about the sound I just heard coming from the other room. think. “Hey. I had a good run!”
💀💀💀I have to go the bathroom, but it’s a long walk from here in the dark. So I run. turning on every light along the way.
💀💀Bring it on. Pal! Is that all you got?
💀Cool Story Bro!
3⭐ or Less Ratings
At Robin’s Review, I believe in supporting authors with honesty and kindness.
🔹 I do not publicly post reviews under 3.5 stars.
If a book doesn’t meet that threshold, I’ll reach out privately instead of sharing a low rating.
🔹 Want feedback?
I’m happy to provide detailed, constructive insights upon request—privately and respectfully. Whether it’s pacing, character development, or plot structure, my goal is always to help, not harm.
My reviews are honest, reader-focused, and aimed at highlighting what works while gently pointing out what could be stronger—only when asked
~Robin
Do you do Beta reading?
🖋️ Do you do beta reading?
Yes! I offer a structured beta reading experience. Here’s how it works:
- You submit a form selecting areas you’d like feedback on (e.g., pacing, characters).
- You send the first three chapters and any key questions or checklist items.
- I return detailed feedback.
- Together, we decide if we’re a good fit to continue the full beta read.
What about piracy?
📚 A Note to Authors About Piracy & Trust
Dear Authors,
I want to take a moment to speak on something I care deeply about: the integrity of your work.
As both a reader and a reviewer, I firmly believe in the value of intellectual property and the incredible effort, time, and heart that goes into writing a book. I do not support or condone piracy in any form.
When you entrust me with your book—whether it’s an ARC, beta manuscript, or final release—please know that your work is safe with me. It will be treated with the utmost respect, confidentiality, and care. I take this responsibility seriously and am committed to maintaining a secure and professional review process.
Thank you for your trust, and for allowing me the privilege of reading and sharing your work with the world.
~Robin’s Review
Where do you post reviews?
🛒 Where do you post reviews?
I post to the following platforms regularly:
Book Platforms:
- Amazon (U.S.)
- BookBub
- Goodreads
- Robin’s Review Blog
I post to the following platforms upon request:
- Apple
- Barnes and Noble
- Godless
- Google Play
- Kobo
Social Media & Communities:
I post to the following platforms upon request:
- Bluesky
- Discord
- Facebook group: Reading Between The Spines
- Lemon8
- Skylight
- Substack
- Threads
- TikTok (if it still exists 😅)
X (formerly Twitter)📌 Want your review posted on any of these? Just ask! I’ll add it by request.
Do you do author interviews?
🎤 Do you do Author Interviews?
Absolutely! I run a special feature called Voices Between The Spine.
Once approved, your interview is posted to:
- My blog: Robin’s Review
- My Facebook group: Reading Between The Spines
- Social snippets shared across Threads, Bluesky, Discord, and more
We can chat about your writing process, upcoming books, imposter syndrome, and everything in between. Message me to get on the list!
Do you charge for any services?
Nope! I do all of this because I love books and supporting authors. But if you’d like to support me:
☕ Buy Me a Coffee
📦 Check out my Amazon Wishlist
📚 Or send me a signed copy (which I cherish more than you know!)
How do I get on your schedule?
🗓️ How can I get on your schedule?
📩 Just fill out the Google form found in the Author Center
If you haven’t heard from me in a few days and you’ve whitelisted my email, feel free to follow up.
Trigger Warnings and Book Reviews
⚠️ Trigger Warnings and Book Reviews
I understand that some genres—especially horror, dark fantasy, thriller, and others—often include content that may be triggering or emotionally difficult for some readers. As someone who strongly advocates for mental health (both my own and that of my readers), I believe in striking a balance between awareness and storytelling integrity.
To do that, I ask that authors provide a list of potential trigger warnings when submitting their book for review.
In my reviews, you’ll often see a simple note:
👉 “Check your triggers.”
This keeps the review spoiler-free while still giving readers a gentle heads-up.
If you’re an author, I encourage you to be mindful and thorough when reviewing your content for potential triggers. Providing that information allows me to support you and your readers in the best, most respectful way possible.
Thank you for understanding—and for helping me create a thoughtful space for all kinds of readers.
— Robin’s Review