Reviews are both the bane and ultimate blessing of a writer’s existence.
When I penned my first page, it wasn’t because I craved accolades; it was because I had to. One interviewer put it correctly in the perfect questions – When did writing chose you? Of course, I’m certain that not all authors write because they’re compelled to, but that’s how writing works for me.
The second a germ of a tale percolates, that’s it, I’m done for. I have to write the story – I can delay finishing the manuscript – but the characters will nag at me until I finish their journey. Okay, seeing those words on a page is scary – and even I’m asking – does she maybe need therapy? But, it’s the God-awful truth.
But, I digress. I write because I have to – to retain some semblance of sanity. Yet, that first review is a validation of sorts. If it stinks, you’re reeling. If it’s great, you walk around mentally regurgitating the sweet phrases from the review.
A fabulous review has me ecstatic. A bad review makes me go back to the book and try to objectively see if the reviewer’s criticism has merit. My whole objective with this writing gig is simply to make my book better. Ask any editor who’s worked with me – I relish constructive criticism.
But, I’ve seen some downright nasty, mean-spirited reviews that should never have seen the light of day. Almost as if the reviewer bore the author a grudge. At the same time, any published author puts his or her self out there and must expect one and five star reviews. However, a vitriolic review only reflects back on the reviewer, particularly those who complain bitterly about a $.99 tale not being worth the money. Come on.
The worst type of review, for me, is a four or five star review that reads ho-hum. Why give a book four or five stars and not be positive? I’ve been lucky enough to receive some glowing four or five star reviews for my work, but some five star reviews have read as if the reviewer fell asleep writing it. Boggles the mind.
That said here are links to three new reviews for Deviant Devil:
http://www.books-n-kisses.com/2011/11/my-review-of-deviant-devil-by-jianne.html?zx=e8a2bfe8ca843e9b
http://thetbrpile.weebly.com/1/post/2011/11/review-deviant-devil-by-jianne-carlo.html
http://www.bookreviewsrus.com/index.php/reviews.html?review=2182-Deviant-Devil
Now, I have a question for the reviewers – why do you review?
Cheers,
Jianne