I’ve been thinking a lot about the whole book reviewing thing lately, so was happy to see this post by JF Kaufmann, which opens up some significant issues about indie authors and book reviews.
I don’t write reviews often; it takes time and effort to come up with a meaningful retrospection. When I do write them, I have different rules for different types of books, and this customized approach is most apparent within two major publishing categories–indie books and traditionally published books.
Sometimes I’m so moved with a book that I feel inspired to put down my impressions. It usually happens when I really like it and want to share my excitement (or recommend it) or, less frequently, when I’m frustrated or disappointed. The second scenario–a pissed-off review–usually occurs with a work of fiction unjustifiably praised, in my opinion, for qualities it doesn’t possess.
There are no consequences for the author as I don’t have any influence outside my limited blog space. Even if I did, such authors are fair game: they’ve been paid for their books…
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Audrey Driscoll's Blog 
I’ve been fortunate to have had many five and four star reviews for my ebooks. They are nice to receive but I’ve always said I learn much more from any constructive one and two star reviews (fortunately few and far between) as long as it details specific likes and dislikes so I can say, ‘Yeah, I get that.’ That helps me grow as a writer and produce more entertaining work.
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I agree, Gary, but I also think critical reviews must be thoughtful and carefully worded. Writers are advised to grow thick skins, but gentle criticism is more palatable than harsh words.
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Kaufmann’s post is intelligent and probing. Much like her books.
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Yes, indeed!
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I’m not an avid reviewer either, but I will try to leave a positive review for an indie author or a new author if I really enjoyed their book.
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That’s great! As an author, I really appreciate reviews, which is why I review the indie books I read.
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I do not like writing reviews, but I try my best, especially for national writers (some international books too, but less often). Reviews are important, and some books are worth being known by more readers! (Also, as a writer, I appreciate others reviews, so I should better write some too!)
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Writing reviews isn’t always easy, but it’s important. Thanks for your comment, Marina!
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Despite the fact that I give glowing five-star reviews to more than half the books I read, I’m very aware, both on the blog and Goodreads, that people are far more likely to read and “like” my occasional one-star rants. So I’m more careful about giving them, reserving them either for long-dead authors of classics, where I find it quite fun to mock mercilessly, or to huge bestsellers or established authors, whose sales will not be affected by individual reviews. I would only give a strongly negative review to a new author or an indie if I found the book actually offensive or objectionable in some way. Otherwise, if I don’t like it, I just don’t review it. This is why I don’t take indie books for review. It doesn’t mean I don’t read them and even review them, but if I buy them I feel happier about abandoning them than I would if I’d taken a copy from the author.
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Makes sense to me, and I love reading your snarky reviews (and all the others too).
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Good read. There’s some good takeaways but also, I agree with a lot of the comments.
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Thanks, JeanMarie. The more I think about reviewing, the more complicated it seems. I will beaver up a post soon.
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beaver up? Is that a Canadian thing? ha ha ha!
Don’t mind me. That’s a cute expression.
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It might be!
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