Today's guest is Baba.
How did you discover Goodreads?
I joined Goodreads in December 2010. Truth be told, I'm not sure but I *think* I was browsing the Internet since I was always on the hunt for my next great read, and I accidentally stumbled over GR. I strongly believe that Goodreads is the best place to discover fabulous books and authors.
What have been your most memorable Goodreads experiences?
There have been many memorable experiences. Damon Suede is one of my favorite authors. He signed my ebook of Hot Head and his dedication was really touching. Since I read Hot Head we did exchange more than a few messages. He is just the best! Damon is not only a very talented M/M author but also an incredibly kind, funny and generous human being. Basically, interacting with my favorite authors is always a highlight.
Author Anne Calhoun sent me a signed paperback copy of Liberating Lacey. That meant a lot to me.
A memorable experience are the fan groups. I'm one of the moderators of Liberating Lacey Lovers and Anne Calhoun Fans Far and Wide and Brandon Shire Fan Group.
I'm always psyched when my favorite authors are providing ARCs. These are the moments I'm living for as an avid and passionate reader and reviewer.
I'm going to do my first beta read very soon. It's wonderful when authors value my insight so much, and I can't tell you how excited I am right now. I'm pretty sure it will be an unforgettable experience.
Another great aspect of GR is the possibility to connect with wonderful people from around the world.
Name one reviewer not in the Forbes 25 that people should be aware of.
Blacky. She writes great reviews. Besides, she is funny and kind. Just a good friend of mine.
What was your initial reaction to Amazon buying Goodreads?
What will be the consequences? Honestly, I was not over the moon. For some time past I don't post reviews on Amazon anymore. It was always difficult to post them anyway because of their restrictions. You have to watch your language all the time, and you can't post very long reviews either. As it is, I'm known for adding a great visual (pics and gifs) to my reviews, but Amazon doesn't provide an option to do that. Also, I think the reactions/comments from certain readers are more rude on Amazon. Some readers can't stand it when you post a negative review and they are quick to post offensive comments. That's another reason why I prefer GR over Amazon. I always felt freer to voice my honest opinion here, and I just prefer to be straightforward instead of beating around the bush. I really want to explain why a book didn't work out for me even if it hurts. After all, I don't think that I'm here to please an author's feelings. In consequence, I strongly believe that mature readers and authors should be above such things
How many books do you own?
No idea. What I can tell you is that I own two ebook readers and I downloaded about 500 ebooks since May 2011. Initially I've had a hard time to say good-bye to my paperbacks because I always liked to hold a book in my hands. To feel and smell the paper. Although there is no getting round it to admit that buying ebooks is very convenient. I don't need storage room and ebooks are cheaper. Plus, I don't have to deal with a book that is snapping shut all the time.
Who is your favorite author?
Joey W. Hill, Damon Suede, Brandon Shire, Ella Frank, Anne Calhoun, Nina Lane.
What is your favorite book of all time?
My all-time favorite M/F romance novel is Mirror of my Soul by Joey W. Hill.
My all-time favorite M/M romance novel is Rough Canvas by Joey W. Hill
My all-time favorite M/M/F romance novel is Hurt by Varian Krylov
What are your thoughts on ebooks?
Like I said before they are easy to handle, and they don't need excessive storage room. The money is a factor--ebooks are cheaper. A really huge advantage is the time factor. I'm Swiss and I'm living in Switzerland, however, I want to read English romance novels. Before the ebook era, I had to go to my bookshop to request the books. More often than not the shop had to order them overseas and I had to wait about two months before I could fetch them. But now I can download an ebook within a few seconds. It's so incredibly convenient. Needless to say that my reader's heart is delighted.
What are your thoughts on self-publishing?
Mind you, I'm speaking from a reader's point of view. The idea of self-publishing is good. However, many authors make their lives miserable simply because they don't invest enough time for editing/proofreading. Typos, spelling errors etc. are a pet peeve of many readers. Therefore authors should pay more attention to the whole editing and proofreading process.
Any literary aspirations?
LOL! Nope, not going there.
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