Name: Candace Cottrell

Location:  WV

Short Bio:  CandaceK is the editorial director at Q-Boro Books and works as a freelance web developer and book cover designer.  She is an avid reader who has enjoyed reviewing for several years.

Tell a bit about yourself, how long you've been in TRR, and what behind-the-scenes (if anything) things you do: I've been in TRR since early 2002 and have helped with contests, the website, RAW-Affairs, and various planning aspects.

As a reviewer and unpaid volunteer, what is your motivation for reviewing? Number one is that I love RAWSISTAZ and everything it stands for. Secondly, I love books and giving my opinion on them. What better compensation is there than being involved in such a great group and getting to have my say about books?

Share your best moment as a reviewer:  When Alexs D. Pate told me that I was one of the ones who "got" him and his books. Anytime an author shows appreciation is a shining moment for me.

What do you look for in books?  Characters who I can empathize with, relate to, or care about. I love a good storyteller, like a Gloria Naylor, a Nalo Hopkinson, a Bernice McFadden. Those kind books always keep me glued to the pages.  But, I also love a good mystery or thriller that keeps me up at night. Isn't that what it's all about? Being kept up at night thinking about what you've just read? TL Gardner is definitely good at doing that!

I also love chick-lit. It's so lighthearted and funny, yet, it always packs a powerful message. Oh heck, I just love all books!!

What is the best book you've ever reviewed:  It's so hard to pick one!! I'd say it's a toss-up between Walk Through Darkness by David Anthony Durham and The Darkest Child by Delores Phillips.

Share your Top 5 list of books reviewed in 2005:

Freshwater Road by Denise Nicholas
Sex, Murder, and a Double Latte by Kyra Davis
The Matter is Life by J. California Cooper
When Love Calls, You Better Answer by Bertice Berry
Angry Black White Boy by Adam Mansbach

Now, pick just ONE as your favorite:
Ok, now you're making me get a tumor. I am going to go with When Love Calls, You Better Answer.

When you're not reading/reviewing, what do you do?
Design book covers and websites, write music, and work full time at an up-and coming publishing company as the editorial director.

How many books are on your Review Pile? Six! But I am looking forward to every one of them.