leave a review, if you dare

I’ve been meaning to write something about this issue for a while, and I guess today’s the day. It amazes me that it’s even an issue in the first place. But since it apparently is, I figured I should weigh in. I have strong opinions on the subject, and I’ll try to address it as coherently as possible.

Lately, I’ve been hearing a lot about book reviews. Specifically, the fact that some authors are apparently – increasingly – lashing out at those who leave what they deem ‘bad’ reviews on their books. That’s right: someone picks up a book, gives it a read, takes the time to go on Amazon or Goodreads or wherever, and leaves a review. Maybe they liked it, weren’t blown away by it, but enjoyed it. So let’s say they leave a three star review. The author sees this review, and not only complains about it on social media, but in some cases lashes out at the reviewer or even, in extreme cases, seeks them out to confront them.

As an author, I can tell you that it’s very difficult to acquire a following and garner a readership. A huge part of our exposure comes from potential readers looking at ratings and reviews left on such sites. I don’t fully understand how the system works, but it seems the more you have the more visible your books are. This is why I, and others like me, humbly request reviews – we need the exposure. And it’s no easy task, getting those reviews. If someone buys and reads a book, they are of course under no obligation to review it, or even tell anyone they’ve read it. When they do, it usually means they felt strongly about the book to write something about it, whether good or bad.

I can also tell you that, for those who do take the time to review a book, it’s hugely appreciated. Well, for most authors it is, anyway. But it seems there’s a growing number of writers out there who not only feel entitled to having their books reviewed, but also that these reviews must be overwhelmingly positive. Not only is this a ridiculous stance – no reader owes you anything, authors – it makes it increasingly difficult for the rest of us to convince an already hesitant readership to perform this generous act of kindness.

So, let me state this as plainly as I can. Authors: reviews are for readers, not writers. Read them if you must, but keep your thoughts about them to yourself. Just bear in mind that your book might not be to everyone’s taste, and that’s okay (or maybe, in some cases, if a book gets an inordinate amount of poor reviews, perhaps it’s worth considering that the book just isn’t that good). And whatever you do, resist the asinine urge to bite the hand that feeds you – because it’s not just you that hand is feeding.

Readers: thank you for those reviews, please keep them coming. Just know that most of us appreciate you. Whether it’s a glowing review for a book you loved, a short note for a book you merely liked, or a critique for a book you didn’t care for, please don’t hesitate to leave them, and realize that the vast majority of us aren’t entitled, petty, and short-sighted enough to attack you over it.

That’s all. A book review is a simple transaction that didn’t need to have this controversy surrounding it. If you’re so inclined, feel free to leave a review on any (or all!) of my books. I promise it won’t go unnoticed, and as always, it means a lot. You can also follow me here for all the latest news and updates.

Until next time, be safe, talk soon!

-JP