My guest today is Deb Day who is an established, prolific, book reviewer who has kindly agreed to answer my questions to give us an insight into her relationship with books, reading, writing and reviewing.
When did you discover a love of books?
I have always enjoyed reading. I was an only child, so don’t know whether that had something to do with it, maybe escapism. I devoured books as a youngster & I distinctly remember reading 101 Dalmatians in a day! My gran got me interested in crime novels; she gave me all her Agatha Christie’s when I was a pre-teen with the classic Fontana covers. And, yes, I’ve still got them.
What got you started on becoming a book reviewer/beta reader?
I took early retirement in March 2020, which coincided with the first lockdown. I found I was reading even more but wanted to tell others about the books I enjoyed. I joined a few FB review groups & people appreciated my early reviews (I was learning my style) & I started to get a lot of follower requests which translated to me setting up my separate review accounts. A couple of authors swiftly became online friends & one asked me to BETA read her first novel. I had no idea really but just did what I thought I should & she was very grateful. On the back of that, I did a proofreading & editing diploma, so apparently, I know what I’m talking about. I suppose it helped that I used to teach & I had the job of proofing the whole school’s end of year reports – the headteacher knew I’d spot errors (no pressure!).
How long have you been doing it and how many books do you get through a year?
Number of books has gone down (a bit), maybe up to 10 a month now. When I was starting out, I nearly said yes to everything I was offered, perhaps it was because I thought it would stop. Now, I’m trying to be good to myself, reading to a deadline takes the enjoyment out of it, so I try to space them out. However, I can read a book & have a BETA on the go at the same time – my brain does seem to separate them.
What is your writing history?
No writing history, other than school. I don’t even want to. I was asked to join a magazine review team a while ago but said no. I like the freedom of doing what I want when I want VOLUNTARILY.
Have you ever not finished a book before reviewing it?
I once reviewed a book before finishing it, & it did not sit well so haven’t done it since. However, if I don’t enjoy a book & would say only give it 1 or 2 stars, then I don’t review it at all. The author has spent time writing it & who am I to discourage them by running them down in a review. If I’ve been asked to read it by the author or publisher, then I’ll message them privately with my feedback. In the few cases I have done this, it has been appreciated.
Have you ‘discovered’ a book?
Discovered a book? I really don’t know. I shout about books & if I’ve joined a bandwagon or I’m a lone voice, I just do it.
What is the quality generally like across self-published work?
Self-published books are definitely becoming more prominent. When I started, it was more than obvious which ones were as they did not have the polish. Now, quite difficult to tell once there’s a finished product. More authors are realising that it can’t just be the family that reads it before printing. Although I think covers still need more attention. I know there are stock photos which can be used, but they can be a bit repetitive.
What is your process for analysing a book before writing a review?
Analyse? I don’t. I always draft my review as soon as I finish a book (that goes for BETA too), gut feel is a wonderful thing. I never repeat the blurb & try not to give away too much of the story, & never spoilers. If something didn’t sit right, I will say so, but I try to convey my enthusiasm for the book & why someone should read it.
How do you balance providing honest, critical feedback with being respectful of the author's effort?
Accuracy & honesty lead on from the above, I never read other people’s reviews before I write my own. I have (once I’ve posted mine) & I have sometimes wondered if they actual read the book or are writing about a different one!
How much time do you think you could do a review, and what are your expectations for the outcome?
Writing my review doesn’t take that long, once I start drafting it just flows. What does take the time is the posting all over the place & making the graphics. So, maybe a couple of hours for each book. I have no expectations on outcome. If people like it, then great – I’m not chasing follower numbers. However, I no longer put star ratings on my SM posts as a couple of people (my groups are public) were vicious in their attack on my star system – even though it is obviously subjective. Told them this, they didn’t give up & I removed my pinned post explaining my system & blocked them for my own sanity!
Have you ever had a writer show any interesting reactions to your reviews/comments?
Some writers just like the comment. Others will comment publicly or DM me. The best acknowledgement that I must be doing something right is when I meet them at events (may only be a signing) & they actually know who I am.
What was the hardest feedback you have ever given?
All feedback is hard as I don’t want to knock the enthusiasm of the author, but I did do a BETA recently where I had been recommended to a new writer. It wasn’t my genre, which is fine, but what I didn’t realise was that it was over 700 pages, plus it didn’t really go anywhere & it wasn’t original. That was tough but they’re still talking to me.
Can you describe a book that changed your view of a genre? What genres are you most experienced in reviewing? What elements do you consider essential for a good book?
I love crime fiction it is my go-to. My view of the genre hasn’t really been changed by any one book, but there is a tendency to drop in texts, emails, voice notes now so moving with the times. This is great but can sometimes ruin the flow of the book & if not formatted correctly, looks awful on kindle.
All books have to have a hook, regardless of genre. If I’ve read too many blood & guts books, then I have a couple of palate cleansers that I return to. Jilly Cooper’s Rutshire Chronicles & the Harry Potter series – actual books not kindle – sometimes a complete change is required.
Has a book ever made you laugh out loud?
Books do make me laugh out loud – J D Kirk, M W Craven, Steve J Richards, T G Reid, Bryan J Mason to name but a few. I have read these recently, so are to the front of my memory.
Are you generally good at guessing twists?
I can sometimes guess the twist particularly in psychological thrillers but generally no. Chris Carter is adept & keeping you guessing
Has a reviewed book ever changed your life?
A book that changed my life is Comatose by Jane Badrock. The first book I ever BETA read & set me on this path.
That seems like a good point to end on. Thank you for your answers and for your time.
creating a book festival
I love attending book festivals, especially exhibiting at them. I love the buzz from meeting people, my tribe, and the humbling feeling I get when strangers decide to buy my books.
I also enjoy hunting for those festivals – less so when I miss out, and I had missed out on a big one. I read their website in that peculiar afterglow of disappointment and saw:
https://www.indieauthorbookfair.com/how-do-i-host-a-book-fair
Now there’s a thought! But did I need to pay them a third of takings to use their website and marketing support, good as their offer was?
After all, I had a career in book publishing, in sales, management, mainstream fiction, academic, digital content and software, along with a degree in business. I also have a love of books, bookshops, libraries and the people. So, surely, I had picked up one or two tips along the way? Preening and puffing up my ego was all very well, but how was I to undertake this project?
I needed a plan.
The internet is full of people who have trodden this path to Book Festival success many times before me and have been generous enough to commit their experiences and advice to text and reply to my naïve questions. My thanks go to the following people:
Debbie Young https://hulitfest.com
Alison Smith https://www.southhamsauthors.co.uk/festival-2025
Rebecca Collis https://www.stratfordliteraryfestival.co.uk
The project plan is in place.
But is there an appetite among authors to support another event in South Devon when there are so many good ones around?
Posing the question to the South-West Writers and Devon authors Facebook groups gave encouraging interest. Game on!
So, where to host? Location cubed, right?
I shortlisted five places for consideration.
The ‘Goldilocks’ venue turned out to be Totnes Civic Hall. It has a grand hall, with four huge windows on each side of the hall, adding light and views of hills, with a generous stage, and extra rooms with convenient access to a car park. And Totnes is a funky arty town bearing all the hallmarks of the right demographics, with an excellent location on the high street, and reasonably priced, too.
As a bonus, the market square sits between the hall and the main high street and features a market every Saturday, so hopefully, it will be a natural source of footfall to the hall and for those seeking that unique Christmas present. And Becky Ford-Bartlett (Finance and Lettings Officer) proved to be an excellent advisor on behalf of the site.
I had my venue!
When is a good date to book it?
I was advised that I needed at least six months to set it up, which would be near Christmas. A check of the calendar ensured that it does not clash with anyone else’s events, and I was left with 22/11/25 as the optimal date.
Totnes Civic Hall booked. That’s it. It is no longer hypothetical: it is real! I had better get a move on!
I had decided on what it was going to look like: a hall full of lovely authors, workshops and talks, plus much more besides.
Cathy Dodd, luckily for me, was newly available. I approached her to see if she was interested in acting as a wise adviser. Cathy did more than that; she offered to do live interviews! And with her experience on the radio, she was the perfect person for the job.
Cathy also introduced me to Jonathon Posner, who also generously gave freely of his advice and was also responsible for taking my poster design and creating the poster we have now.
And with Alison Smith acting as my go-to guru for ongoing tips, I had a consultative team!
Author Tables
Now, to start selling tables – thirty-four of them. But who do I want to attend? Ideally, South-West-based, indie, self-published authors, but there are few barriers. And the tables sold fast!
Live interviews
One room in the hall is earmarked for Cathy’s live interviews. I wanted to create a cosy sofa corner feel: two people chatting casually – I am sure we have that. We began the process of gathering interview subjects – it didn’t take long, as we have a wealth of interesting people with great stories to share.
Workshops and talks.
The second room would be dedicated to workshops, talks and readings.
The event has been blessed to have had many people step forward who have expertise in their chosen areas, with most running creative writing courses and others who have regular experience of talking about their chosen subjects.
Dare I say it, it was all coming together. But I still had more ideas.
Choir
I love the festive season and thought it would be fun to have a choir there. And I was fortunate to find the talented Wild Goose Choir. They will entertain us for lunchtime on the big day, on the hall’s stage.
Refreshments
If you are feeling peckish on the day, do not fear, for Sylvia and John of The Green Café of Totnes will be hosting a service for soups, homemade curries, cakes, savouries and a plethora of drinks both hot and cold.
One of the authors Cathy will be interviewing is Derek Air, who has written about his passion: Subbuteo table football. This game started life many years ago and is enjoying a resurgence: the World Cup was held in Tunbridge Wells last year. South Devon Subbuteo Club will be setting up a couple of tables on the stage, giving demo matches and offering the chance for anyone to have a go on the green baize.
Creative writing
I want to promote creative writing to all, especially young people.
I had the idea to run a writing competition in local schools. How lucky was it to have Cathy Dodd, not only based in Totnes but also having the contacts with local primary schools? It was also a good fortune to have Nigel, the generous proprietor of East Gate Bookshop, offering to donate book tokens as a prize for winners! Watch out for those young writers who will be invited to read their work.
Support
And to the support and positive responses of so many people – thanks to all.
To everyone from South-west writers and Devon Writers who have been marvellous in sharing their experiences and knowledge.
As I have travelled further afield, attending Book festivals in Blandford, Swindon, Oxford, Marlow, Stroud, Teignmouth, Worcester, I have to give a big shout-out to the network of festival organisers who have welcomed me into their circle and offered so much advice.
The event team consisted of volunteers of Janet Stocks, who will ensure that the workshops run on time. Lottie McKnight and Ffion Mackenzie, from Teignmouth Writers, will be the events’ front of house, welcoming and directing people, ensuring that the interviewers run to time.
So, we have authors, speakers, workshops, a choir, catering, table football fun, and writing competitions… so what else?
Visitors
Oh yes, I need people to come along and enjoy it. So that meant promotion. Hello, lots of time on social media.
Admission to the hall and all events is free this year, although it is recommended that tickets be reserved via Eventbrite to avoid disappointment.
Admin
Has there been anything I have not enjoyed about this experience?
Not really. Even the potentially tedious administrative tasks, such as insurance and risk assessments, have been informative.
Motivation
So, the 22/11/25 is approaching fast, and if we can give pleasure, support local writers, and encourage young and mature people to write, then it will be a job done.
It is also my favourite season of the year, and what a great chance to combine many of my loves: Books, the festive season and nice people. Could this be the start of a tradition?
Bob Fairbrother 9/10/25
https://www.instagram.com/bob_writer_fairbrother/
https://www.facebook.com/BobFairbrotherTheAuthor
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576935420938
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1779118935629?aff=oddtdtcreator
bob Fairbrother Q&A with Deborah Balm.
Deborah Balm is a British female narrator with over sixty audiobook credits. Born in Yorkshire, she now lives in Cambridge following an indirect route via Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Wales. Her voice is warm, intriguing, and engaging. She loves narrating historical romance, crime thrillers, and fantasy novels.
What path did you take to get to be a voice artist, how did you get your start, and did you have any formal training?
I have always loved audiobooks. I remember as a teen hanging out in the audio format section of the library and along with my allocation of print books, usually cosy mystery or fantasy, or maybe a Sydney Sheldon Thriller, I would come home with a sweeping Romance Audiobook in one of these big black vinyl folders with 12 cassette tapes inside and I couldn’t wait to get started listening on my Walkman. Romance because it seemed that was all that was available in my small-town library in the North of England.
I was involved in local community theatre and pantomime when I was younger which I loved. I have been a member of a few different choirs too, most notably when I lived in Basel in Switzerland, I sang Stainer’s Crucifixion in an incredible gothic church which was a brilliantly fitting venue for that piece.
I started in audiobooks though quite by accident. My husband and I loved online computer gaming (MMORPGs), and we had some recording equipment lying around. In 2016 I discovered Librivox, an online community with the goal of recording all public domain books into audio. I kind of got hooked. I loved telling the stories and I liked the tech and the editing process. My husband built me a home studio, then I started coaching with Sean Pratt and I’ve never looked back.
Of course, I have been through several iterations of tech and studio since then. A big change was when I upgraded my home studio to a Studiobricks booth. I can deliver a pro-studio sound from it. That meant I could get a higher end mic too which pleased my inner tech geek no end!
I have regular 1:1 coaching from working on specific areas of performance to accent coaching and of course audiobook business coaching. I have completed all of Joel Froomkin’s Acting for Audio semesters. I have coached at different times with Andi Arndt, Johnny Heller, and currently I’m working with Paul Ruben.
When did you realise that you had a good voice?
It wasn't a sudden realization, but rather a gradual discovery. People often commented on the warm tones and soothing style of my voice, and of course I’d had singing coaching so I knew I could sound good.
I have naturally quite a deep voice for a woman, so didn’t initially feel like I was a good fit for more youthful castings. But as I grew in skill and started experimenting with different characters and accents, I realised that actually I could perform younger voices authentically and a range of possibilities opened up.
Could you describe your process for preparing for a voice artist project? Where did your inspiration come from for voices? Or are guided by your clients? Do you use any other mediums / mood board to get a vibe for a project?
I really like it when the author has a clear vision of who their characters are, and they share that with me. It’s good to know three adjectives, a demographic, and a dream casting for each character.
My preparation is quite thorough. First, I read the book and then I go back, making notes on characters, pacing, and tone. I create character profiles, noting their age, background, and arc. I draw from various sources: real-life observations, films, theatre, and other audiobooks. Rights Holder guidance upfront is helpful. If it’s a new series, I might create mood boards or playlists especially for fantasy or romantasy projects.
Do you have a routine for keeping your voice in good order?
Absolutely! I have a daily routine that includes warm-ups, hydration, and vocal exercises. Sometimes I sinus rinse if I have been out recently in environments with lots of people (I know, eeuw!!). I don’t eat or drink anything containing milk while recording, and no cheese is allowed until the end of the day, which is sad because I love cheese.
I prioritize rest and avoid straining my voice. I use a humidifier, especially during dry months, and incorporate regular breaks during long recording sessions. I also regularly work with a vocal coach to keep my technique up to date. I also have to take care of my eyes with so much long close-up work in the dark.
Had you got a favourite from your roles/character, and what was your most challenging role?
That's like asking a parent to pick a favourite child! It was really challenging to narrate VS Alexander’s The Novelist from Berlin. I find wartime stories very moving, and this one was both real and touching. It had lots of German and Dutch words too which is very much in my wheelhouse.
I have very much loved being the voice of Bev in S. Usher Evans’ cosy fantasy series The Weary Dragon In. I enjoy the diverse, fun characters and the gentle but engaging storylines. Series are great because each new book feels like revisiting old friends. I also love Jeffe Kennedy’s Fantasy Romance Series. I love the magic system and how she has built that society with the politics, conflicts, and external pressures for each of the family houses. NC Lewis’ DI Fenella Sallow books are a favourite too because I get to narrate in my northern accent.
What do you love about what you do? What don't you like?
I love the immersive experience of bringing stories to life and connecting with listeners on an emotional level. It's incredibly rewarding to see how my narration helps lift the story off the page. The flexibility and creative freedom of working from my home studio are also aspects I enjoy. The most challenging thing can be the long hours and the need for intense concentration. Also, sometimes the isolation of the work can be tough. I try to connect with other narrators each day to help with that. The variety of a fantasy book one-week, historical fiction the next, crime thriller the next is very appealing to me.
Do you have any advice for anyone who would like to try voice acting?
I only work on audiobooks, I don’t do commercial voice acting, so my advice is specific to that. It’s a long game: my advice is to be patient, persistent, and passionate. Invest in quality training, 1:1 with coaches, build a strong portfolio of books with great covers, and network with other narrators, authors, and publishers. Make sure you are ready for the next stage before you reach out to publishers. It’s hard to remake a first impression.
Be prepared for rejection, but don't give up, success will happen. Behind every ‘overnight success’ is thousands of hours of unseen prep work, training and coaching. Narrate every day, experiment with different genres, and always strive to improve your craft.
Do you have any advice for authors looking for a voice artist?
Yes, I have a recent Instagram reel on this. Look on the sales charts and see who is narrating already in your genre. See who is popular and start there. If you are prepared to pay industry standard rates, then you should be able to find a great narrator who aligns with your vision and who will work with you to create a real asset to complement your work. Make sure you have great artwork on the book cover as this also entices good narrators. Everyone wants an attractive looking portfolio.
Look on Instagram or TikTok. Find creators who are active and promoting books, engaging with Authors, and even doing live narrations if you like that, especially if you yourself are active on social media. Make a shortlist and check out their samples on their website. Narrow down to a shortlist of two or three narrators whose voices and styles fit with your book's tone and characters. Don't be afraid to ask for short custom samples and discuss your vision in detail: I’m always happy to make a sample for someone interested in working with me.
Communication is key, so find someone who is responsive and collaborative. Ask for their process, and make sure that you are happy with the level of professionalism.
If your budget can’t stretch to standard PFHs initially my advice is to channel that cash into funding ads to promote the eBook. If you don’t generate the sales yet, keep going until you do. Alternatively, you can try a kickstarter campaign. This has been pivotal for many authors I have worked with.
If you want to try Royalty Share on ACX, that is also a possibility, though be aware that this may attract newer narrators, with less experience, and lots and lots of auditions. Be sure to keep your initial audition script sample short: no more than 600 words. You can always run to a second round for your favourites to narrow down for character voices, but trust me, you don’t want a narrator who has all day to spend on auditions. You want a busy working professional narrator and by having a long script, you might actually put-off great talent from auditioning with a long audition script. Also, for some of those samples you might only listen to the first few seconds before moving on to the next.
Are you a reader and what are your favourite books?
I have always loved fantasy with magic systems, potions, dragons, and adventure. I also enjoy romance, cosy mysteries, and my secret indulgence is a cowboy romance. I am a member of my lovely village book club which encourages me to read books that I would not otherwise have picked up. I’m all about the audiobook though, I don’t usually read them as print. Sometimes though my schedule is too packed to finish, but I make every effort to fit it all in!!
Which is your preferred medium? Theatre, TV, radio, audiobooks, others?
Audiobooks come first, of course! The focus on voice and the long form nature of audiobooks is very appealing to me. Also, it’s good to rest my eyes after a day in the dark booth.
I watch TV, boxsets especially, and I really appreciate great acting. I’ve recently been raving about Slow Horses with Gary Oldman. I’m pretty sure a Jackson Lamb inspired character will make an appearance in my books at some point!
My local Theatre – Cambridge Arts – is closed for a year for refurbishment and I cannot wait until their program starts up again. I’m really missing it!
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I think the audiobook industry is experiencing a golden age, with more listeners discovering the loveliness of immersive storytelling.
I have a cautionary tale though. Audible seems fixed on enticing authors to create audiobooks quickly and easily using Virtual Voices. The trouble is, they don’t tell you that AI can really hurt your brand. I work with an author who paid for one of their other multi-book series to be made available as audio with AI voices. Within 3 months of going on sale, they had pulled them all, because the negative reviews were really spoiling their brand.
Using a Virtual Voice doesn’t engage as well with fans, and it also raises the question: if you have used AI here, where else might you have used it?
But even with the threat of AI looming, it's an exciting time to be a voice artist, and I'm super grateful to be a part of this amazing community.
If you got this far, thanks for reading. If you are out and about at book fairs do come and say hi, I love to chat. Otherwise, you can find me on Instagram, TikTok and Threads.
https://www.deborahbalm.com
