As I’m getting more requests for reviews, I’m finding myself
in a bit of a conundrum. My main issue is whether or not to publish unfavorable
reviews of books. After a lot of thought, I’ve decided to only publish reviews
on books that I can award at least three stars.
The reason for my decision is that I’m a writer too. I know
how angsty writing a novel can be. You’re basically giving people a glimpse
into your private inner world. To read that someone thinks your story sucks is
heartbreaking. I can read fifty favorable reviews on my novel and still find
myself tormented over the one that rips my book apart.
As a writer, I decided to stop obsessing so much over
reviews. I know some writers who don’t read reviews at all (I’m aiming to have
that kind of will-power). Reviews can get into your head too much and it’s
distracting when you’re writing subsequent novels.
I’ve received recommendations from other bloggers to set up
a review policy. I’ve done that and posted it under my Contact tab. The gist of
my policy is that I won’t post reviews on books I don’t finish or would rate
one or two stars. Genres I’ll accept include New Adult, Young Adult, Paranormal
Romance and Contemporary Romance.
I did the same thing - put a page on my blog with my review policy stating a turn around time, how to send it to me and that if I don't like it or can't read it, I'll let them know. I don't want to post terrible reviews either. Hurting someone's feelings isn't fun.
ReplyDeleteThat's really nice of you to let an author know. It does feel crappy to hurt someone's feelings. I've read some reviews on book blogs before that are really harsh. If I hate a book that much, I just won't finish it.
DeleteI think that's a very fair policy. As an author I can attest that the one negative review always seems to make the positive ones feel less true.
ReplyDeleteI feel the same way! Plus, I rather recommend books on my blog instead of tearing them apart.
DeleteI've gotten a 2 star review for one of my books. While I didn't really agree with what the reviewer said, I took it in stride because that person took the time to read my book and write a review. It happens, right? My book is certainly not everyone's cup of tea and delves into some pretty controversial issues. But, you're right, it does stay with you. Maybe that's a good thing? You raise some good points and I agree 100% about not reviewing a book you didn't/couldn't finish. There's a fine line, in my opinion, between tearing a book apart and giving constructive feedback. The question is: Where is that line? WRITE ON!
ReplyDeleteI agree with taking it in stride. I think it's crazy that some authors go after reviewers when they don't like their books. By the way, I'm almost done with Lily and Sheila, I'll post the reviews on my blog next Friday =)
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