Today we are thrilled to sit down with Jeyran Main, the dynamic founder and Editor-in-Chief of Review Tales, a book review platform. Since 2016, she has been at the helm of this essential platform, passionately building a vibrant community where indie authors and avid readers connect. We'll dive into the story behind her acclaimed Review magazine, explore the full spectrum of Review Tales' empowering services, and discuss her vision for the future of literary discovery.

Hi Jeyran, it’s wonderful to have you with us today. Review Tales began in 2016 with a strong commitment to supporting indie authors. What first inspired you to turn that idea into a real platform? Was there a particular moment or experience that made you feel there needed to be a space like this for emerging writers?

Jeyran: Review Tales began in 2016 because I kept meeting indie authors who had incredible stories to tell but very little support in getting them noticed. The spark came while helping a debut author who felt completely overwhelmed by the publishing world. Seeing the difference that a single thoughtful review made for her—emotionally and professionally—crystallized the need. I realized there was a gap: authors needed a platform that wasn’t just about critique, but about uplifting their voices. That’s when Review Tales stopped being an idea and became a mission.

Watching Review Tales grow from a small idea into such a lively community must feel incredible. What has been the most meaningful part of that journey for you, Jeyran? Is there something about seeing writers and readers connect through the platform that especially warms your heart or reminds you why you started?

Jeyran: The most rewarding part has been watching connections form where none existed before—authors finding readers, readers discovering new favorites, and writers supporting one another. What started as a small reviewing effort has grown into an active, encouraging community. Seeing someone get their first review, celebrate their first publication, or launch a book with confidence because they feel supported—that’s the heart of it for me.

You’re now publishing two magazines—The Article Magazine and The Book Review Magazine—which each bring something unique to your audience. Jeyran, how do these two publications serve different needs for your readers? And what gap in the literary world did you feel they could fill when you decided to create them both?

Jeyran: Both magazines fill very different but equally important roles.

• The Article Magazine gives space to ideas—industry insights, author perspectives, and discussions that add depth to the literary world.
• The Book Review Magazine is dedicated to spotlighting authors and helping readers discover new works worth exploring.

Together, they serve readers who want both conversation and curation. I saw a void in the market for publications that celebrate indie authors with the same seriousness and respect given to traditionally published writers, and these magazines aim to fill that gap.

With your experience as both an editor and a reviewer, you get to see the creative process up close. In your view, Jeyran, what is one of the most common—or even unexpected—challenges indie authors are facing today?

Jeyran: One surprising challenge indie authors face is believing in their own voice. Many feel pressure to write like someone else or follow trends, and along the way, they sometimes lose connection to what makes their story unique. The creative process can be vulnerable, and having the confidence to trust their vision—especially without a big team behind them—is often the biggest hurdle.

Getting a review can feel pretty nerve-wracking for an author, especially when they’ve poured so much of themselves into a story. Jeyran, how does your team approach the review process to make sure it stays honest and constructive, while still giving the author a supportive and uplifting experience?

Jeyran: We approach every review with the mindset that there is a human being on the other side of the page. Our goal is to be honest and constructive, yes, but also encouraging. Even when we offer critique, we do it in a way that respects the author’s effort and creativity. A review should empower an author to grow, not discourage them. We want them to walk away feeling seen, not judged.

Review Tales now offers editing, marketing, and review services—all under one roof. For an author who’s stepping into the publishing world for the very first time, how do these pieces come together to create a more complete, supportive experience? How do they complement one another in guiding an author through the process?

Jeyran: All of our services—editing, marketing, and reviews—are designed to complement each other. An author might come to us for editing, stay for a review, and use our marketing tools to reach new audiences. It creates a full-circle support system. For someone navigating the publishing world for the first time, having everything connected under one roof helps eliminate confusion and builds confidence at every step of the journey.

The publishing world has shifted a lot since 2016, especially with the rise of digital platforms. Jeyran, how has Review Tales adapted its magazines and services to keep up with these changes and continue meeting the evolving needs of both authors and readers?

Jeyran: Since 2016, the publishing landscape has become faster, more digital, and more author-driven. Review Tales has adapted by expanding our magazines, embracing new promotional tools, and offering services that match the realities of indie publishing today—from social media visibility to digital-first marketing strategies. We evolve because authors evolve, and staying relevant means staying attentive.

You must come across so many manuscripts and stories every day. Jeyran, what is it that makes a book really catch your team’s attention? Is it a unique voice, an original plot, or something else that makes a story unforgettable?

Jeyran: A manuscript stands out when it has authenticity. Whether it’s a bold voice, an unexpected plot, or a character who feels real enough to step off the page—what grabs our attention is sincerity. You can feel when an author is writing from a place of truth, passion, or curiosity. That energy is impossible to ignore.

Jeyran: Is there an author or a book success story that came through Review Tales that stands out for you—one that really captures the kind of impact you hope to have on writers and readers alike?

Jeyran: There are many success stories, but the ones that stay with me are the authors who come back years later to say a single review, magazine feature, or editorial session changed their trajectory. One debut writer told us that our feature helped her land her first major speaking event. Moments like that remind me why Review Tales exists: to open doors.

Looking ahead, Jeyran, what’s your biggest vision for the future of Review Tales? Are there new ways you hope to support storytellers or bring fresh innovation to the literary community?

Jeyran: My vision for Review Tales is to keep expanding the ways we amplify authors’ voices—through more interactive digital features, global partnerships, and perhaps even a podcast or video segment in the future. I want Review Tales to remain a space where storytellers feel valued and readers feel inspired. Innovation will always be part of our DNA.

Jeyran, being immersed in stories every day and working closely with so many authors, how has this experience shaped your own perspective on storytelling and creativity? Has it changed the way you think about crafting a narrative?

Jeyran: Working with so many authors has taught me that storytelling is universal, but creativity is deeply personal. Every writer brings a different history, perspective, and emotional truth to the page. Being immersed in those stories has broadened my understanding of humanity and reminded me that creativity isn’t about perfection—it’s about connection.

Finally, Jeyran, for all the aspiring authors and passionate readers joining us today, what’s the one piece of advice you’d share about the power of stories—and how to find their own place in the literary world?

Jeyran: My advice to authors and readers is simple: don’t underestimate the power of your story. Whether you’re writing one or reading one, stories help us understand ourselves and each other. Find your place in the literary world by being unapologetically yourself. Your voice matters, and somewhere out there, someone is waiting for exactly what you have to offer.

Thank you so much, Jeyran, for sharing your journey, insights, and the heart behind Review Tales. It’s inspiring to hear how your passion for storytelling continues to uplift authors and connect readers. We’re excited to see how Review Tales will keep growing and empowering voices in the literary world. It’s been an absolute pleasure having you with us today.

For more inspiring stories and interviews from the literary world, check out Amaranth Magazine.