It’s great to be back with you today!
Recently, I completed my Her Hope Discovered blog tour with Just Read Publicity Tours. What an awesome experience!
Several of those nineteen blog stops included Q&As, book excerpts, and book reviews. A big shout-out to the very gracious hosts—this début author thanks you!
Now, as you may remember, we’ve mentioned why book reviews are golden nuggets to authors. Let’s recap.
- Book reviews help authors. They add credibility and increase visibility of authors’ books.
- Book reviews help readers. They communicate honestly what reviewers (readers) loved and maybe, too, what they didn’t. Readers appreciate this. Authors do, as well.
- Book reviews generate book sales. That’s why authors write—to sustain them financially and to have their words read.
- Book reviews build steam. They offer tangible appreciation of authors and their stories. They create buzz.
Of course, we should note that not all book reviews are equal.
Authors’ stories aren’t going to appeal to everyone.
While we hope for favorable reviews, it’s inevitable some readers will love our books, and others may not.
What I would hope readers and reviewers consider before posting a book review is this.
Is this review constructive? Does it mirror my honest impressions in a tactful, tasteful manner that’s helpful to the author and other readers?
Does this review self-edify or does it serve others?
Is this review intentionally hurtful? Or have I stayed on-point without losing focus?
Authors understand we’re to have thick skin.
We understand it takes good books to earn great reviews.
We understand rating systems are excellent tools for evaluating stories.
Still, even as we understand these things, we hope our work is judged fairly and with as much heart as we pour into it.
In this age where “heart” cannot be overrated, honest feedback tempered with grace is always refreshing and welcomed.
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PLEASE SHARE
Love books? How you can help the authors who write them. Things to consider before posting a book review.
Rating systems are excellent tools for evaluating stories. Additional points to consider when posting book reviews.
Original Image Credit: Pixabay
What factors do you consider when posting a book review?
Does a book’s rating affect your purchase decision?
In your opinion, what makes a book/story great?
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Thanks for joining me today!
Please join me again next week, Wednesday, March 6th, as I visit my friend Ann Gabhart’s online home. We’ll be chatting about how the Ozarks influenced my début novel Her Hope Discovered, and be sure and weigh in for a chance to win an autographed copy!
If you’ve already read HHD, I’d love it if you’d post a book review. ♥
Also, my monthly newsletter winds its way to inboxes soon. Sign up for the fun ~ Lots of great things ahead!
Much Love and Many Blessings,
