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I agree - if I saw "sponsored link" in a review, I would assume that the review itself was somehow sponsored.

Perhaps some other type of notice would be more appropriate, but I can't think of what that would be.

To me a statement which is somewhat prominent on the page, always in the same place, stating that we always use affiliate links in our reviews, explaining what affiliate links are and that, if you are interested in buying the book, you can help support the blog/magazine by buying it via their link, would be a good thing.

I agree, but I'm not so sure that it has to be prominent. I think it would be perfectly acceptable to be in the footer, as long as the footer is visible at the end of a typical review. I also feel like it would make sense for some sites to have a "How do we make money?" page. Not only does it promote openness and integrity, but as a satisfied visitor to such a site I would probably try to do what I could to help that site make money. That could mean turning off adblocker for that site, buying a recommended product through an affiliate link, or even giving a direct donation. Call me crazy, but I think people who appreciate and get value from a company are willing to do what they can to help that company out.

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