Not every book is for every reader. And you know what? That’s okay.
But can we hone down on the topic of book reviews?
As an introvert, I enjoy writing a whole lot more than talking about my writing. Even more awkward is asking for reviews. That’s about as pleasant as learning I need a root canal.
Yet with millions of new books coming out each year, writers need reviews. Algorithms, baby. Algorithms. But readers benefit from thoughtful reviews, too. Some things to consider:
What do readers get from book reviews?
Book reviews can help link like-minded readers to books they’re more likely to enjoy.
Writing reviews gives readers a voice. (Fingers crossed for a thoughtful, not hate-filled voice.)
Reading reviews can save readers time in making an informed decision on what to read next. (Why pick up a rom-com if you prefer literary historical fiction?)
Writing a review provides a way for a reader to support a writer without spending a dime. Sometimes I write reviews on books I got on loan from the library or as gifts. It’s my way of being a good literary citizen and saying “thank you” to the writer.
What do authors get from book reviews?
Book reviews (yikes! – even the negative ones) can help an author get noticed. Of course, positive reviews can boost a writer’s self-confidence and creativity.
Reviews can help a writer know what resonates about their work with readers.
Reviews lend to an author’s credibility.
Authors are businesspeople. Whether just starting out or having already achieved bestseller status, they need reviews to drive sales. This applies to traditionally and self-published authors in hardback, paperback, audiobook, and/or eBook. In this digital world, reviews drive sales.
So…what exactly is a book review?
A review is not a master’s thesis or a synopsis. It can be short, as in one sentence. I loved this book! Of course, a little more depth can make a review more meaningful to others.
I came across a three-sentence review formula and tested it out with the delightful NEENA LEE IS SEEING THINGS by Sheila Athens. (I shared a longer review of this in my April 2024 newsletter.)
Sentence One: Recap of story and genre.
Meet Neena Lee, a travel writer who’s approached for help by the ghost of JFK Jr. in this blend of contemporary fiction sprinkled with history and magical realism…and a pinch of romance.
Sentence Two: Share three to five things you liked about the book.
I enjoyed (1) how fifty-something Neena Lee overcomes grief and anxiety and agism by pushing beyond her comfort zones, (2) the charming ghost story, (3) the lush descriptions of Cumberland Island, (4) reliving parts of history through a fictional character’s eyes.
Sentence Three: Tell who else might like the book (in general terms) or perhaps share a comparable title.
If you enjoy fiction about characters confronting personal demons, rising above difficult times, and learning the art of self-forgiveness, this one’s for you.
Bonus: Add an optional headline; it may be all the reader stops long enough to read.
Enchanting ghost story…and so much more.
Some thoughts on star ratings:
Maybe you’ve heard it said that no one should earn a five of five star-rating (the BEST) unless they walk on water. That’s one viewpoint.
Another comes from a writer friend of mine, who points out that writers love their five-star ratings, so why not? (The write-up itself carries more weight than the number of stars, in her mind.)
Yet another writer friend never gives five-star ratings to writers she knows lest Amazon (or other review sites) think she’s playing favorites.
I can see points to each of the above. Personally, I used to practice a tough-love approach to reviewing, but these days I work more from a mindset of abundance. I rarely post books I’d rate three. Books I’d rate two or one are pretty much moot as I rarely finish them. Life is too short to read books that aren’t my jam. Same goes for sharing on-line snits over books I don’t like. Life. Is. Short.
But that’s me. You need to do you.
A final note:
If you’re ready to share a review, please remember to post to all the places that might help a reader find a book to enjoy. Consider Amazon, BookBub, Goodreads, or wherever you purchased the book. Cutting and pasting the same review to multiple sites is not just acceptable, it’s thoughtful.
Oh, and in case you’re wondering what to do if a friend writes a book you don’t care for...
Be honest but kind with your words. Smile. Maybe say, “Congratulations; I’m happy for you.” (Note: If you’re famous for your snarky tone, maybe find a Plan B?)
Just a thought here—okay, make that several thoughts—from a debut novelist.
Here’s wishing you many happy (or scary or sweet or poignant or whatever-you’re-looking-for) pages to come! Thanks for reading.
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