Do you read reviews before you buy a book?

I recently had a conversation with someone about how we always read reviews before we buy a book. I wasn’t always like this but, over the years, I found that looking into books further increased my chances of picking up something I would enjoy.

Many years ago, before I found YouTube and book blogs, I would pick up a book based on the synopsis only. Or, if I was in a book store, I would look at books that were recommended by the staff or I would find books that there was a large stack of the title, assuming that because there were so many, they must be popular! To be honest, this wasn’t a success. I kept finding books that seemed interesting but then I would hate them. So I basically stopped reading because I wasn’t enjoying what I was picking up.

After years of not reading, I found myself getting angry. I wanted to read so badly but I didn’t know where to start. So I sat down and looked at the Chapters Indigo site, determined that I would find something amazing to rekindle my passion. I found one that sounded good but I couldn’t bring myself to buy it. I was SO fearful that I would be let down by a book yet again. So I played internet detective and searched for the thoughts of other book lovers to see if it would sway my decision. Boy did it ever! I ended up being spun into the world of blogs, BookTube, Goodreads and more. I found that, not only was I interested in this book, but there was a ton of other information that directed me to other books as well! I went from not knowing what to read to having a wish list 200 books long!

Ever since that day, I WILL NOT buy a book unless I’ve read reviews. And I don’t stop at one. Just one persons opinion is helpful but it’s not a rounded out opinion. I read the rants, the raves, the good, and the ugly. I want to know the emotions the book invoked and what could be it’s downfall. I haven’t spoiled myself yet by doing this – I’m very careful to make sure it’s not a spoilery discussion!!

Another weird thing I do – once a book has been deemed good enough to make it onto my TBR pile or wish list, I don’t read anything about it again!!! I won’t read the synopsis or anything about it! I have a very short memory when it comes to synopsis’s (is synopsis’s even a word? It just sounds weird!) so when I finally decide to read something I’ve forgotten what it’s about. That way, every little thing, even if it’s laid out in the synopsis, is a surprise. I normally hate being surprised but that’s the only way to enjoy a book! LOL!

This is a very short post but something that was on my mind lately. I know that it’s Thanksgiving in America so HAPPY THANKSGIVING to you! I live in Canada so ours was in October. Anyway, I didn’t want to do a heavy post today as most of the American audience will be feasting on turkey and preparing for the chaos of black friday…… which is a chaos I don’t ever hope to “enjoy” first hand lol.

So do you look for anything before buying a book? Reading reviews, word of mouth, or just stick to your instincts from reading the synopsis. I’m very curious!

Until next time, happy reading!