Full Disclosure: Amazon Reviews

Tirjasdyn · Feb 3, 2009

So my boss self pubbed a book and has asked me to review it on amazon.

It's not a bad book at all...it's pretty good. So we had the whole discussion of why she probably should have tried to get it published first before self-pub...hopefully she'll try with her next book.

Anyway...should I disclose she's my boss at the top or the bottom of my review? I do want to review it's good..but I'm trying to figure on the best way to disclose the info.

I'm thinking:

Disclosure: I am supervised by this person in my place of employment. My review of this book is in no way associated with my employment.

What do you think?

Red-Green · Feb 3, 2009

How awkward for you. A disclosure does seem like it would be appropriate. Heck, when I reviewed a book by a former professor of mine, I disclosed that, just to be fair.

veinglory · Feb 3, 2009

IMHO you don't have to say it is you boss but the review should indicate that you know the author personally. This can be done is a way that is not implying any insult to the author, e.g. 'I have known Bob a long time and his great sense of humor shines through in the novel...'

caseyquinn · Feb 3, 2009

can you sort of throw in a line like....

"best of all, since he was my boss he let me read it during the work day"

IceCreamEmpress · Feb 3, 2009

Yes, I'm with veinglory--I don't think you need to go into too much detail, just make it clear that this is someone you know in real life.

aka eraser · Feb 3, 2009

Count me among the consensus thus far. When I reviewed our own Victoria Strauss' last book, I felt it fitting that I disclose we were acquainted.

Disclosing a relationship doesn't preclude honesty in a review. But hiding said relationship does, IMO.

Full Disclosure: Amazon Reviews

Tirjasdyn

Outline Maven

Red-Green

KoalaKoalaKoala!

veinglory

volitare nequeo

caseyquinn

Just happy to be here

IceCreamEmpress

Hapless Virago

aka eraser

Fish Whisperer