There aren’t a whole lot of things that annoy me. I could probably count on one hand the things that will actually set my temper off. But this, this really takes the cake (the taking of sweets, is one).
As an avid reader, I love to read, which is also a given if you’re a writer. In order to understand their market, a writer must read (at least I think so).
That said, I’ve been doing a lot of reading lately. I’m proud to tell you that I am part of an amazing read/review group where authors are generous enough to allow readers to read their material in exchange for reviews.
I love doing it. Not only am I reading books that I find fascinating, but because I get to give feedback, helping that author grow in their next novel. In the same breath, it’s a very slippery slope. My words could make or break an author, depending on my review. Granted, I’m not arrogant enough to think my bad review will send an author crumbling or turn away future readers.
1) Because I don’t give ‘bad’ reviews. If I find something I dislike, I will first give several reasons why I did like it, followed by a gentle point to what I didn’t agree with, followed by a thank you to the author and best wishes in the future.
2) I don’t believe in ‘bad’ reviews. Every book has one or more good qualities, if the reader is willing to look for them with an open mind. This can’t happen when the reader — being rant — goes off the read other people’s review before reading the book.
If you’re going to give an honest, unbiased review of a book, please don’t go to Amazon.com or Barns&nobles.com and look it up first. If the author was kind enough to give you a free copy, placing his/her trust in your honest review, please give him/her a fair chance. You’re doing a great injustice to the author by reading what someone else thought of the book. I can’t tell you how many books I have absolutely loved to pieces and none of my friends agreed, or vice versa.
So, think for yourself! Make your own opinions and give the author the benefit of the doubt.
*climbs off the soapbox*
Now in other news, the Salamander my son found in the garden has mysteriously vanished from its pen. I am seriously creeped out and am waiting for it to crawl up my pant leg or down my throat while I’m sleeping.
That is all.
Happy Thanksgiving!