I definitely read my reviews and it’s for one simple fact—I ask readers to leave them. In the conclusion of each of my books, I ask the reader if they’ve liked the book then I invite them to leave a review. Here’s the thing—if I invited someone to have coffee then decide not to show up, that’s disrespectful. I want a reader to know I appreciate their reviews.
Maybe we’ll never meet, but I know when a reader has read through my series and left multiple reviews. It makes my heart sing to find someone who has cruised through a set of novels and enjoyed them. As an author—as an independently published author—reviews are the lifeblood of a book. They are social proof that the novel has merit and that the author is worthy of another reader’s precious time and money.
It’s disingenuous of an author to ask a reader for a review and then not bother to go read it.
Regarding negative reviews, here are three things I do when encountering them.
First, I remind myself that I’ve put a book into the world. Daring such a thing requires the ability to withstand some criticism. I shouldn’t be so naïve to believe that I would only receive praise and pats on the back. If I can’t handle some hurtful words about me or my work, I should pack up my keyboard and turn off my internet.
Secondly, if nothing negative is said about my work, then no one is reading it. Haters are a requirement for success. There is not one successful person in this world who doesn’t have a group of detractors. It’s impossible. Does understanding that about negative reviews make me feel better? Not always, but it helps.
And finally, I’ve got a sounding board. If a bad review gets under my skin, I reach out to a writer friend. I share the comments and get some quick perspective. After that, I move on with my day.
