Think about what you liked about the book. What kept you reading the novel? Did the author provide characters that you could identify with?
Did the author place you in the scene? Did you get into the character's head? Could you understand the character's thinking whether it was flawed or right on target? Was there a good mix of description and back story sprinkled throughout the story? Don't be the critic, but pick out one or two things you really liked about the story. One line will tell it all.
"The author drew me into the story."
Was the story predictable or did it have enough twists to keep you reading until the end?
"Just when I thought I knew where the author was going, she threw me a pleasant surprise."
Did the story touch a sensitive place in your heart?
"I experienced the emotions as the author spun the tale."
Book sales depend upon reviews from the readers.
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Check out THE HIDDEN JOURNAL, by Joyce Brennan on Amazon. Read the first chapter to get a feel for the book. For less than a cup of good coffee, you can download this ebook.
Joyce Brennan
All great points, Joyce. Sometimes casual readers think they have to compete with 'professional' reviewers. They don't. A few words or a line or two are perfect. It tells us whether the story was liked or not, and gives us a little pat on the back for a job well done if they did like it. If they didn't, it gives us a lesson on what to be mindful of in the next book. Win-win.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Kemberlee.
ReplyDeleteI try to review everything I read giving the most positive review I can. Most of the time I leave them at Amazon since that seems to be the easiest and most influential. I don't hesitate at leaving a 3 star review if I'm not overly impressed, but very rarely will I go less than that if the writer seemed sincere about what they were doing.
ReplyDeleteI know how much time, effort, and emotion goes into writing and even the works I really dislike I'll give the 'E' for effort. It's got to be really bad or have really rubbed me the wrong way to get below a 3 star.
Occasionally I'll still review a book on my blog but that's become more rare. Partly because I haven't been reading much lately, but also I don't see as much interest in my blog posts that are reviews.
And now a new follower on your blog.
Lee
Tossing It Out
Thanks, Arlee. I appreciate your support. Joyce
ReplyDeletePlease visit my fan page. www.facebook.com/joycewritesromance