Reader Spot – Meet #BookReviewer Cathy Ryan (@CathyRy)

Here on the Reader Spot, I share the bookish love of our avid book reviewers. From young adult to historical romance, chick-lit to a murder mystery, they know what they like, and they’re happy to share.  Whether you are a reader looking for a new book, or a writer wondering what your reader wants, I hope you find this series enjoyable.

Next up to the Reader Spot is the very lovely, Cathy Ryan. Find her book review blog HERE.

What genre do you enjoy reading?

I enjoy multiple genres including apocalyptic/post-apocalyptic, horror, historical fiction, YA, paranormal and crime/thriller. My tastes have broadened quite a lot since I began blogging, reviewing books and especially since I became a member of Rosie Amber’s review team. If I had to pick just one genre (a very hard choice ;-)) it would probably be crime/thriller type books.

Do you have a favourite author in this genre?

My list of favourite authors has expanded so much as well. Too many to list but there are an ever increasing number of authors whose books I look forward to and seek out…hence my very scary to be read pile.

How do you prefer to read your books?

A ‘real’ book is always my favourite, I’ve love collecting books and seeing them on the shelves of the bookcase. Space is an issue though and, of course, practicality when travelling, so I have the kindle app on my iPad. The sheer number of books I can have with me on that one device is amazing!  Audios too, although I normally listen on my phone. I’m not really keen on reading on the phone unless I have to.

Where do you purchase your books?

Anywhere I see a book I want, basically, but more often than not it’s Amazon, Audible and/or a book store, independent or chain, either online or by visiting the store. I love browsing bookstores, stands and anything else with piles of books, where I can spend time happily rooting through.

Where do you find out about the books you read?

I find now it’s mostly through book bloggers recommendations, although I do still trawl Amazon, especially when I’ve found an author I like, and to check for new release from long time favourites. Also I’m lucky to be offered books in exchange for honest reviews, independently and through the review team, which is lovely. I’ve discovered a lot of excellent authors that way.

Do you have a budget when buying books?  Do you stick to it if you do?

I tell myself I have a budget but I rarely stick to it, unless the price is ridiculously high, then I’ll search to see if I can find it cheaper elsewhere. Sometimes buying a paperback from another seller on Amazon can be cheaper than, or at least roughly the same as, the kindle edition. Given the choice in that case, I’d go for the paperback.

Do you write a review when you’ve finished reading?  If so, where do you post this?

Yes, I usually write a review, unless I really didn’t like or didn’t finish the book and not if the review would be less than 3*. I appreciate the amount of work that goes into writing a book and don’t want to be totally negative about someone’s work when, more often than not, it’s just down to my taste in reading. The reviews are posted to my blog http://betweenthelinesbookblog.com  also Goodreads and both Amazons.

What do you look for in a book? (Characters, plot, dialogue etc)             

All of the above. They are the three critical aspects. I love when a book is so absorbing I’m totally lost in the story. If the characters aren’t well developed and believable it’s a let down for me. A good plot is essential too, one that hopefully has surprises along the way, with realistic and natural dialogue.

Where do you like to read?

Anytime and anywhere I can really, and if reading isn’t an option I listen to an audiobook. Audios are great for unavoidable, mind numbing activities (for example ironing and housework)….and even more pleasurable tasks such as gardening.

What social media platforms are you active on?

I have a Facebook page and a Twitter account and I’m also on Google+

I’m very halfhearted when it comes to Pinterest, LinkedIn and Instagram and don’t update them very often.

Thanks for having me over on your blog, Shelley 🙂 You’re welcome, Cathy x

I hope you enjoyed this feature. If you would like to take part, please get in touch. Next week I’m chatting to…