Today's post seems to be more timely than ever. With all these online stores getting more and more business, it grows ever important to be sure to review the books you've read to inform other people that it is a worthwhile purchase. Let people know that - whether it is $2.99 or 25.99 - they will be entertained. Regardless of if you are reviewing something that was put out by a publishing house or independently, the game is all the same: validity matters!
If you've never reviewed anyplace like Amazon.com or BN.com (or other book/e-book distributors), it's simple... be honest. If it was the best book you have read this year, say that. If it had a good premise but you wished the pace was a bit faster, say that. People can typically weed through the forced or fake comments, so just don't do it. Not only will it not help the book you are reviewing, but people will not take any of your other reviews they come across as credible, harming other great books and their chance of being purchased. Maybe it seems a little crazy and you don't think people pay that much attention... but they do.
Not everything that glitters is gold though, and perhaps you didn't like a book you read and wanted to talk about that too. While I realize that there are people out there who don't like every book they've read (What? That's a concept!), being constructive about your negative review will get your point across much better than that of one that seems spiteful. Once again, people can read through the bunk and if your review looks as though you didn't read the book or did it because of a strong dislike of the person instead of the writing, those reviews will get removed... and subsequently with enough complaints from people you will get banned from reviewing.
The long and short of it: review what you read, be honest, spread the word.
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5 comments:
I'm always asking for people who have read my book to leave a short review, preferably on Amazon. I don't have many reviews on there and I do think it's a common problem. But I wish other people would understand how important those reviews are, especially to a new author.
CJ xx
I agree with Crystal. I had to beg to get people to give reviews on my books, even after they said they would do it! That is one of the first things potential customers look when making their decision to purchase or not purchase.
As an author, I agree, as like Crystal and Toby, reviews are really important to me as an author.
However, for that very reason, I find it incredibly hard to give reviews myself. I hate that - I want to help authors out as I understand that need! However, if I don't feel utterly thrilled by a book, I don't feel I can say so, as I imagine their disappointment at not getting a rave review and so don't want to say a word.
I gave a one-star review for the Time-Traveller's Wife and then felt so very, very guilty before realising that the author is so successful now she won't bat an eyelid.
But for authors just starting out? No, I can't do it. :( Does anyone else worry about this?
Reviews are so important, as an unpublished author I feel it is important to support those who are published, and sending a review to sites like amazon or goodreads really can help sell books. It's a tough business these days and very little publicity money goes to mid list writers. Reviews help.
As the Chief Reviewer for THE NOVEL BLOG.com, I of course think that book reviews are important for the author and just as much the consumer. I will never understand how someone who hated the read could give it a good review. (not to hurt anyone's feelings) You aren't helping anyone. I myself am totally and utterly honest no matter good or bad, new author or successful.
And for this I've acquired a reputation for being a hard a** reviewer. BUT...when I praise you know I mean it. And when I don't, you know not to waste your time and money.
Being honest goes a long way. And for the writers who are offended or upset by a bad review. Don't be. Use it as constructive criticism and improve on your craft.
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