Sarah Wendell, the co-creator of the Smart Bitches, Trashy Books romance blog, has joined Kirkus Reviews as a columnist.

In her inaugural column, Wendell explained her focus: “I’ll be talking about romance novels—books I adore and trends I notice—and take requests for your recommendations and rants about romance. ” Herbert Simon, the owner of the Indiana Pacers and “chairman emeritus” of the Simon Property Group, acquired Kirkus Reviews earlier this year.

Here’s more from her first column: “When readers go hunting for books to read, they might ask a librarian or bookstore employee for recommendations, but they are just as likely to ask a fellow reader of that same genre. Kirkus’ goal with its new website and editorial direction is to include and welcome the avid book reader into the book discovery and discussion process.”