The fourth in a series of articles on writing online book reviews. Click here for Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3. Today’s article is the first in a series of interviews with established online book reviewers that will be distributed throughout the larger series.

Today I have the opportunity to share with you an interview that I conducted by email with Deena Peterson of A Peek at My Bookshelf Book Reviews.

Deena is known online for her insightful and relevant reviews of a variety of titles. She has a strong reviewing focus on Christian fiction, but reviews other titles as well. She has shared with us her personal experiences with book reviewing, and some great advice for those new to the craft.

How long have you been reviewing books for?

I’ve been reviewing books online for about a year and a half, but I used to review them (tell customers about what was good) for years before that.

How and why did you get started writing online book reviews?

My mom and I used to share books, and when she passed away, I didn’t really have a ‘reading buddy’ anymore. My husband started a blog, and I thought about starting my own. I began sharing about books, and it kind of took on a life of its own.

How does your faith impact the types of books you review, and how you review them?

My faith impacts my reading heavily. I avoid books with an “ick” factor–explicit language and sexuality. I have a vivid imagination, and it doesn’t need any help getting me in trouble Plus, books always have a message or a motive, whether to simply entertain or inspire. I want to fill my mind with the good stuff. But that doesn’t mean I only read Christian books. I’m always on the lookout for a clean and encouraging author.

Because I read faith based books, I look for solid, Biblical truth. If it’s non-fiction, I look for Scripture. I don’t want man’s opinions; I want God’s truth–I’m just picky that way! I also want to be entertained, but pointed in the right direction. Many books claim to be Christian, but there’s not much in the way of Christ in them.

On average, how many books do you read and review each week?

I usually can read one per day, but lately I’ve been a bit slower. I try to get a review posted every day; there are so many great books out there, it’s hard to know what’s good and what’s so-so. Plus, I want to keep my readers coming back for more! They are the reason I do this–that, and the books:-)

What do you feel are the main differences between print and online book reviews?

Online book reviews are more easily accessible, and since most of us are amateurs, we have no ulterior motives…that means we’re more honest with our readers. We’re not bound by payment or anything…we do it for the love of books and of reading.

What do you feel are the most significant benefits of online book reviews, both for the reviewer and for the author?

Exposure and publicity. Plus, getting to meet wonderful people who also love to read .

Who do you tend to review more books for? Blog tour alliances, or books that are submitted directly to you and your blog through authors/publicists/publishing houses?

It’s a wide mix. Lately I read more on request, but once in awhile I read just because a book appeals to me.

What advice would you give to an individual who is just getting started reviewing books online?

Meet other bloggers through joining book blog groups, stay up on what’s new in fiction, and when you write a review, email the publisher or author your review link. And do what you do for the love of books.

Thanks so much Deena for joining me for this interview! Don’t forget – you can find Deena’s reviews at A Peek at My Bookshelf (I peek regularly).

Please sign up for updates to the blog (in the upper right hand corner) to read the rest of this upcoming series, featuring interviews with established online book reviewers, more opportunities to review books online (both with and without a blog) and advice for new reviewers.