REVIEWING FOR FUN OR GETTING PAID. WHICH IS BEST?

When I first started reading novels years ago, the only things I noticed were the blurbs and book covers, before happily moving on to the next story.

It wasn't until 2004 that I began to pay attention to reviews that were inside of the book.  It took a while longer before I actually sought out reviews to help make informed book purchasing decisions.

Despite a massive TBR pile and many favorites, there are only 5 authors that I'll purchase without reading a review or the blurb about their novel.  Every other suggestion on new books or authors, come strictly from bloggers.  The effort they put forth in reading or listening to a book, then sharing that knowledge is a much needed element.

Some may feel differently, but I believe that reviews sell books for authors, and become topics of discussion for readers.  I also think that for the most part, authors really appreciate knowing what we think about their writing efforts, the covers or even the genre they've chosen.   

When possible, every effort is made to provide positive feedback for all those authors who labor day and night to come up with such amazing stories, so I can't imagine a world without book reviewers. Some are straightforward, a few are brutally blunt, many are hilarious,  most are well-written, and they are all entertaining. Many book reviewers are also getting into the review of merchandise, as well. What about you?  Do you need to see a review before picking up a new novel or product for your reading pleasure?  Do you pay attention to the opinions of others?  

GETTING PAID FOR BOOK/PRODUCT REVIEWS OR BLOGGING

Kirkus Media is seeking experienced book reviewers of English and Spanish-language titles to review for Kirkus Indie in various formats and genres.  

If interested, pass on your resume, samples of your writing, and a list of preferred genres to David Rapp at Drapp@kirkus.com.

Bloggersrequired.com is a great place to get products to review for cash or the use of the product.  Some are strictly for overseas, but others are designated specifically for US Bloggers.

http://onlinebookclub.org/free-books-for-reviews.php - This site has a large volume of books to choose from, and even though you won't get rich, you can get paid for your reviews.

THE KRAZY COUPON LADY
First the title to their website is probably a misnomer, because 2 wonderful women (Heather Wheeler and Joanie Demer) created this phenomenal website.  Also, you may think that this site is all about coupons (they are the gurus of saving money with coupons and rebates), but they also give you real cool recipes, lots of tips about making money, and other news you can use.  If you contribute an interesting article to their site, you can get paid!  Pitch your idea after reviewing the site to: Contributors@thekrazycouponlady.com

PENNY HOARDER
With over 5 Million subscribers, Kyle Taylor and team created this website to tell you how to earn money in unexpected places. I'm not kidding.  You will be truly amazed! Then share your ideas for cash!  Send those articles to:  editor@thepennyhoarder.com.  

The holidays are weeks away, yet there are literally thousands of female veterans who are homeless with nowhere to go.  They have left their homes because of domestic violence, can't find a job to pay all the bills, or never hear back from all the organizations that promise to help.  That woman behind you in the grocery store is wondering if she can find a safe place to sleep in her car for the night, or crying because she has to go to a job interview without a shower or clean clothing.

In North Carolina, there are technically very few organizations that may assist with female veterans who are homeless.  Volunteers of America, Passages, Family Endeavors, United Way, Alston Wilkes Society, and Community Link are the ones that come to mind.  Some of these are affiliated with each other.  Some will help, but I promise you they don't move quickly, which can be very stressful to a woman who needs a place to live right now.  

While they are unable to offer financial assistance, visiting www.operationwearehere.com may make you feel so much better.  Ms. Benita Koeman is the founder of this site that provides many resources in different states.  When you see the site, you'll wonder how in the world she has time to reach out personally to those who have questions, but she does.  Ms. Koeman epitomizes the meaning of kindness, and we appreciate her.

Do you know someone who's homeless without a place to call her own?  Is someone you know unable to pay rent?  If you can, reach out with hugs of support and monetary assistance to help these women get on their feet.  They served our country to protect us.