What do I do with books received in different format than requested/offered

I entered two giveaways from a member Colin Scott 1. Canning And Preserving For Beginners 2. The Basics. They were under paper only, and that is what I requested as I prefer to read paper copies, particularly with books I will use in the kitchen. Yet, I received an email with a link to download a copy of the books and a request to leave a review on a different site, and to get more free ebooks at other sites(which I will not be using).

I noticed that the other books they had on offer in the member giveaway have been cancelled. What is my obligation with these books that were given to me in the wrong format? Am I still obligated to review them? I feel I should not have to, as to me, their end has NOT been held up. But I do not want me not reviewing them to count against me when requesting future books. Any advice?

If I understand the rules correctly, you are never obligated to review member giveaways. It's nice, but not required.

This member giveaway stipulated that they wanted people who received a copy of the book to review it. Normally I wouldn't mind doing that, it seems only fair. I just don't think they even met the requirements for me to have to go through all of it. Thanks for the response and your advice.

From the Member Giveaway rules page:

LibraryThing Member Giveaways ("LTMG") are an informal way for LibraryThing members and authors to give away books. Reviews may be requested, but not required.

If you feel that the author is trying to hold you to a higher standard, he/she is in violation of the rules. Not reviewing will not count against you as far as LT is concerned.

That's very interesting to read. I was going off the blurb at the top of the member giveaway page that reads "Authors may request that you review the book, so look for "Recipient is asked to provide a review in exchange for this book." at the top of the book description."

Member giveaways are just random draws as far as who wins. Unlike early reviewers where not reviewing makes you less likely to win more books not reviewing an MG book has no affect on future wins. The person listing the giveaway can ask for a review, but LT only keeps track of your ER reviews.

I recently sent a message to a member on a MG stating that I would not be joining another website to get the book. If it was sent directly to my e-mail I would review it here. (Implied was not to the other website he wanted the review on.)

I check that there is no mention of these things in the offer. I don't ask for books that mention getting through or reviewing on other websites. We cannot be considered even morally held responsible if the member changes the terms on us. And as mentioned above, LT doesn't keep track.

Authors often complain that they get very low rates of reviews from MG. Do they look at their own behaviour. I review every MG I get on LT. Some of those reviews they probably would prefer not to have gotten. But I only count as having received those that I really get in a format I can read.

I will add to my earlier post that I would consider an e-book sent instead of the book copy offered to be the same as not sending anything.