BBAW: Interview Swap

Tasha from Heidenkind's Hideaway is my interview partner for Book Blogger Appreciation Week and I have to say I had a lot of fun getting to know her through this interview.

Without further ado, here is my interview with Tasha.

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Melody: I read from your profile that you are an art historian. Would you like to share with us about your position and what is the challenge you face being an art historian?
Tasha: Well, right now my biggest challenge is finding a job. :P Sadly, the economy is making it more difficult to find jobs in the humanities. But before I was teaching at a university and that was a lot of work--constantly prepping for class, going over lectures, finding images, etc. It was fun work, though.

M: What made you decide to start a book blog?
T: I love books! :D I've been blogging for about 5 years, but that was more of a personal blog. I started doing book reviews and people really seemed to like them; then they sort of began to take over my personal blog. So I wanted a site that would be more focused on my interest in that and the arts. That's basically how it got started.

M: Which is your favourite genre? Would you explore a new-to-me author/genre after reading fellow bookbloggers’ recommendations?
T: Romance is definitely my favorite genre. As for exploring new-to-me genres based on blogger recommendations, I have. I've tried a few horror books based on the rec of a blogger I know really well (that's just about the only genre I hadn't read). I loved both the books she recommended, so I was very happy I stepped outside my comfort zone!

M: What do you like most about the blogging community? Have you met anyone from the blogging community? (If you did, do share with us!)
T: I haven't met anyone from the book blogging community yet, although it would be nice. The best thing about the book blogging community is the the people, of course!

M: What is your policy when reviewing books? Would you review every book you have read? How do you feel about reviewing books which you did not enjoy?
T: I review books that I have finished. Sometimes I'll write about books that I didn't finish, but I don't consider those reviews. If I didn't like a book, I'm going to explain why. It may become snarky. :) Basically I try to give every book the review I think it deserves--if a book deserves a lot of thought, I'll write a thoughtful review.

M: Which are your favourite and least favourite books this year? Which is the must-read in your opinion?
T: Wow, I have no idea. My favorite of the year so far might be Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles. I was really disappointed in My Wicked Marquis by Gaelen Foley. I try to forget about bad books as quickly as possible.

M: Finally, do you have any other hobbies besides books and reading?
T: I like to hike and ski, although I don't do it very often. Obviously I love going to museums, and I enjoy making ceramics, printmaking, and photography. Occasionally I'll crochet when I feel the urge (which isn't very often).

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Thank you, Tasha, for answering my questions!

Please visit Tasha's blog if you haven't done so already!