Welcome to Jen Ryland Reviews!
I’m Jen!
I help readers find the best and greatest books to read, then offer a friendly place to discuss them.
Who am I?
I’m probably a lot like you.
I would choose reading over most other activities.
As a kid, I saved my allowance (and later, my babysitting money) to buy books. I went to the library at least once a week to feed my addiction. In the photo below, I am in my happy place: reading on the couch with a dog that takes up too much space.
I sometimes snack when I read. (Only if it’s a book I own.)
Reading has been a lifeline for me through some of the hardest and most difficult times in my life. There was one period when all I could read was happily-ever-after romances. I read them every day for six months. Things did get better, and the books helped me cope.
I love a good book but am NOT a book snob.
In college, I was an English major, reading everything from Chaucer (not a fan!) to Shakespeare (eh…) to Victorian literature (better!) to modern American literature.
In the 90s, I went through a chick lit phase. I had just moved to attend school in New York City and I felt such a kinship with these characters dating and shoe-shopping their way through a new city.
I spent six years as a school library volunteer. That’s when I started being a book recommender. I read all the YA books I could so I help kids find books they would love, books that would encourage a love of reading.
I have been a book reviewer since 2011.
“Putting myself out there” on the internet was SO scary to me. I struggle with anxiety, but blogging has built my confidence.
I’m both a mom and a dog mom. I am afraid of heights (yes, I live in NYC). I love to be on a beach, reading a book. I’m a friendly introvert.
I would really love to talk books with you! Discussing and recommending books is my favorite thing to do.
Why Should You Trust Me?
100% of the content on Jen Ryland Reviews is written by me.
My opinions are always honest and always 100% my own. My family is from the Midwest, so I’m nice! But as a New Yorker, so I tell it like it is.
I’ve read 1500 books so you don’t have to!
If you’re a book nerd, you’ll understand the graphic below.
(If you’re new to this, these are snapshots of my Goodreads goals over the past 12 years.)
Since September 2011, I have read a total a LOT of books. I read everything I can get my hands on and I’m here to help you find the book that is right for YOU.
I am a trusted reviewer in the book community
You can find out all about my Editorial Policy here!
And see how I give back to the bookish community here!
Before the pandemic, Book Expo was the premiere book community event in the country, and to attend as media you had to fill out a long application proving that you were a professional and consistent book reviewer.
I received a press pass for Book Expo America from 2012 until the pandemic shut it down in 2020. I miss those busy, happy days of meeting other bloggers, booksellers, librarians, and publishing employees. I still have all the tote bags!
I’ve interviewed bestselling authors ranging from Gabrielle Zevin to Leigh Bardugo.
I have earned multiple reviewer badges on Netgalley (a professional book reviewing platform) including Top Reviewer, Book Advocate and more. I have a 91% review rating.
I am a book trend-spotter, not a trend follower!
Anyone can Google or watch TikTok and make book lists. Usually they haven’t read the books. Don’t be fooled!
My extensive reading and insight into the book industry was honed over a decade helps me:
- spot new trends in the book industry
- find books that I know my audience will love
- find those hidden gems that others miss
- know the backstory on an author or a returning trend
To a real reader, reading is life.
I post about books and book-related topics.
I’m not here to sell you things, including books. Books are expensive! I use the library all the time and love to recommend backlist titles that you check out for free.
What books do I review?
On Jen Ryland Reviews I review mainly mysteries, thrillers, and popular book club books. If I see a book I think my audience will love, I toss it in there.
I find and feature the books I think everyone will (or should) be talking about, plus a few surprises so that you can impress your friends and book club by suggesting that great under-the-radar gem.
I also feature compare and contrast posts on books adapted into movies. No, the book is not ALWAYS better. I said what I said!
Let’s Talk About Books!
In my opinion, there is not enough respectful and productive conversation on the internet. Book lovers, we can change that.
I’m proud that Jen Ryland Reviews has over 7700 genuine, helpful, and enthusiastic comments from readers like you. I read and approve every comment and respond to most.
I’m so happy you’re here. Now, let’s find you a great book to read!
Please consider either subscribing to either my weekly new post email OR my monthly Mystery and Thriller newsletter or both! You can do that here.
Here’s where and how to contact me about review copies, questions, or book discussion.
Jen Ryland LLC ~ 229 East 85th St Unit 1454 ~ New York NY 10028